We hosted another Philia brunch in Berlin. The discussion topic was “Success”. Our participants brought up lots of interesting points that we would love to share with you.
Everyone has their own definition of success.
Our first goal was to find a common understanding of the term. Many participants agreed that independence is a major success. Especially financial independence was seen as important because historically many women were financially dependent on their husbands. It’s also a success to be able to decide freely what you want to do with your life. That you have the option to be a stay-at-home mum or to work full time soon after you gave birth. Even to have the choice of whether you want to be a mother or not.
Sit at the same table as men and to hold decision-maker positions
Our participants said they have enough of the principle that women hold supporting roles such as personal assistants to a manager or secretaries. They thought it was frustrating when they and a male colleague take part in a meeting and the other parties automatically refer to the male colleague as the decision-maker.
A successful life means to feel fulfilled and to have a positive impact on those around you and the world in general.
Many participants highlighted that success is not just about their job. One participant emphasised that she strives for goals that are bigger than herself. Goals that she works towards with other teammates and that will make a lasting change in society.
Lastly, we discussed the notion that success is not just reaching a goal, but enjoying your life on an ongoing basis. We discussed that being surrounded by great people and participating in interesting events as also a sort of success. And most importantly: You need to decide for yourself what you see as a success instead of listening to other people’s definition of success.
