Whether reading a magazine, watching television, or listening to the radio, the media creates the buzz over what's hot and what's not in all the latest trends and fashions. Industry professionals utilize celebrities to entice their products by sending a different message directing us to believe that we too can live that lavish lifestyle if we purchase their products. But is all the hoopla fact or fiction? Does living a lavish lifestyle mean success?

We can work hard all our lives and save every penny, but more is needed to guarantee success. While pursuing living "the dream," what have you given up in order to achieve it and why?

• Left a toxic relationship or one fueled with standards and ultimatums to be independent and follow your destined path.
• Left a home that was financially driving you into bankruptcy to an apartment, condo and/or townhouse with less overhead, less stress, and within a closer mile radius of your dream city and lifestyle.
• Left a dead-end job with no emotional support to a career you are passionate about, believe in, and that fulfills your life's work.

These scenarios are just a few examples people intentionally go through daily to establish greatness and peace of mind. Therefore, the question is not necessarily about success but what you have had to release and let go of to achieve it. Sometimes it means releasing being a people-pleaser, gifting someone else's dream back to them so you can pursue your own, or taking imperfect action immediately because you are on a mission to live by your own design.
Ask yourself:

• How are you living with intention?
• What conscious choices are you making in the direction of your dreams?
• What one step are you taking each day that aligns with what you are trying to do, be, and feel?

Sometimes it takes small pebbles and even huge boulders thrown at you to clear the path to open your eyes of awareness. Once that path is clear, it is up to you and only you to be intentional, make a conscious decision, take imperfect action, and be congruent with what you want and who you are or strive to be without compromising yourself.

Unfortunately, there is no magic wand and no easy answer. Therefore, have faith that you will make the right decision for yourself, be open to new opportunities, and allow the blessings of success to knock on your doorstep.

True success is not money or material goods but personal, professional, and private growth. It's about the journey and the lessons you learned in the process to achieve greatness. Be intentional on your journey, and be you!

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Written By De Vida Gill

Dr. De Vida Gill is an Educator, Author, Certified Transformational Life Coach, and Creative Strategist. She is passionate about integrating Arts & Entertainment, Mental Health, and Education. For 25+ years, she has created programs and services to empower creatives and out-of-the-box thinkers to unmask their potential and embrace their authenticity. 

Contact Mahogany Vida for more information.

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