Success is not a one-size-fits-all approach. As a coach, I work with many clients who all have different definitions of success. Some want to be corporate execs, politicians, or to write a novel. Others want to be present for their families, find greater balance in their lives, or acquire wealth. 

Regardless of what success looks like for you, I have a simple formula that I apply with my clients to help them to attain the success that they desire: Values + Intention + Purpose = Success.

Values are the fundamental beliefs we hold which guide our actions. Few people are really clear on what their personal values are. If asked, most individuals will share the values learned in childhood that their family members indicated were their values or what they should value. As adults, it’s unfortunately uncommon for individuals to reflect on those values and think, “Is that really what I personally value? Is that what’s most important to me in life now?” 

Getting clear on what values are most important to you in the present gives you the knowledge necessary to align your life with those values. For example, if you profess that the most important thing in your life is your family, then your life choices should reflect that. If they don’t, then it’s pretty clear that’s not really your top value! Recognizing this misalignment means that you have a choice: either you need to change your behaviors to be more in line with your values, or you need to be honest about what it is that you really value in life. 

Intention refers to being proactive and focused. Individuals who live with intention plan their time toward accomplishing their goals – even on their weekends or days off. This doesn’t mean that they are rigid or inflexible, ruled by their planner or to-do list, but rather that they prioritize those activities and behaviors that are reflective of their values. They recognize that time is precious and limited, and make sure that their time is utilized in a way that will lead to fulfillment of their purpose. 

Purpose is what you want your life to mean, what you hope to have as your legacy, and what you wish to be known for. Living your life with purpose means that you have a goal in mind. It’s the why behind what you do each and every day. This is how you create meaning and fulfillment in your life. It’s about doing something greater than yourself – contributing to the world in some way. 

Alone, each of these elements have value. But when you combine Values, Intentions, and Purpose, you have a lens through which you can view all thoughts and behaviors in your life. And it’s with that model that you set yourself up for success – no matter what that may look like for you.  

At Bauman Consulting Group, we provide both individual and group coaching to help people achieve their personal and professional goals. Find out more here.

Ashley Bauman, M.S., M.B.A., B.C.C., is the founder and president of Bauman Consulting Group. She is a board-certified coach, experienced public and social sector consultant, and renowned trainer and workshop leader.