“Unhappy is he who depends on success to be happy.” ~ Alex Dias Ribeiro, a former Formula 1 race-car driver.

In my 30’s I worked HARD.

I got up early and headed to the office before 7 (to beat the traffic).

I worked with intensity. I crushed my to-do list. I managed all the things.

After I got home, everyone got dinner, baths, and then once the kids were in bed, I’d immediately crack the laptop open and battle my way to inbox zero.

Those habits got rewarded!

I got promoted, received bonuses and raises—trips to executive retreats and continuing ed courses at prestigious universities.

It was FUN! I was succeeding and happy.

Until I wasn’t

When the merry-go-round stopped, I was unemployed and disenchanted.

When I called them, my closest friends were there, but most of my support structures came from work.

The achievements and goal attainments were meaningful in the moment, but what I came to value more were the quiet moments with my kids, the time spent with friends, or just a walk in the woods.

It’s a cliche to say that your job won’t love you back, but it’s also TRUE.

Where is your happiness coming from these days? Are you finding it in the quiet moments, or in the big achievements?  Hit reply and let me know.