If you’ve achieved these 10 things in life, you’re more capable than you realize

by Isabel Cabrera | July 26, 2024, 2:09 pm

 

 

Have you ever looked back and felt like you haven’t achieved much? Maybe you’re comparing yourself to those who have shelves full of trophies or titles. 

But wait, there’s more to life’s achievements than glitzy awards. 

In fact, there are milestones that may seem ordinary but reveal just how capable you are. These achievements resonate deeply and stand the test of time. 

Let’s explore the ten life accomplishments that prove you’re more capable than you realize.

1) You’ve overcome personal challenges

We’ve all faced those moments when life throws a curveball that knocks the wind out of our sails. 

It might be something as life-altering as losing a job or something that chips away at your confidence like repeated rejection. 

When I faced a career setback, it felt like my world had crumbled. But you know what? We dig deep. We find that quiet strength within that says, “I can handle this.” 

It’s not about fanfare or public acknowledgment. It’s about the courage to face adversity, adapt, and keep moving forward.

These personal victories might not have a shining trophy, but they shape our character and make us realize just how capable we really are.

2) You’ve maintained long-term relationships

Building and maintaining long-term relationships is nothing short of an art form. It’s easy to make a friend, but keeping one? That’s where the real achievement lies. 

Think of the oldest friend you have; what makes that relationship last? 

It’s more than shared memories or common interests. It’s about empathy, patience, and the willingness to put in the effort, even when it’s tough. 

I remember a time when a misunderstanding almost cost me a dear friendship. But we worked through it. We valued our relationship more than our egos. 

That’s golden. It’s an accomplishment that won’t get you a parade but enriches your life in ways a medal never could.

3) You’ve learned from failures

Remember the quote by Thomas Edison? “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” 

A funny story: I once had a business idea that I believed was a guaranteed hit. I poured in time, energy, and my savings. And… it flopped. 

Heartbreaking, right? But looking back, I didn’t lose. 

I gained a deeper understanding of the market, a realization of my personal blind spots, and, most importantly, the determination to keep trying. 

When you turn setbacks into lessons, you’re showing adaptability and an undying spirit to achieve greater things.

4) You’ve stepped out of your comfort zone

I’ll be the first to admit, trying sushi for the first time was a mini adventure for me. Raw fish? Really? 

But taking that leap into the unfamiliar (and realizing I actually loved it!) was a small metaphor for life’s bigger challenges. 

Whether you’ve moved to a new city, picked up a challenging hobby, or simply tried a new dish, the act of stepping out of what’s comfortable is a significant achievement. 

It’s in these unfamiliar territories that we grow, learn, and expand our horizons.

5) You’ve helped someone without expecting anything in return

Mother Teresa said, “It’s not how much we give but how much love we put into giving.” 

A friend of mine once told me about how, during a low point in her life, a stranger paid for her groceries. 

It was a simple act, but it left an indelible mark that urged her to forever pay it forward.

The sheer act of helping someone without expecting a return favor or acknowledgment reveals a generous spirit and a genuine heart

In a world where every deed often has a price tag, your selfless acts are treasures that showcase your deep capacity for kindness and empathy.

6) You’ve practiced patience and seen it pay off

Patience, as the old saying goes, is indeed a virtue. 

Whether it’s waiting for the right job opportunity, nurturing a relationship, or even growing a plant, practicing patience is a less-heralded but incredibly valuable achievement. 

It’s a subtle testament to your ability to stay the course and believe in the process, even when immediate results are not apparent.

7) You’ve inspired someone else

Have you ever been told that something you did or said inspired someone else? It’s both humbling and uplifting. 

The story of Erin Gruwell, a teacher who inspired her at-risk students to pursue education and change their lives, showcases the power of inspiration. 

Her story was beautifully captured in the film “Freedom Writers.” You don’t have to be a teacher to have this effect. 

Your passion, your resilience, your kindness can all be catalysts that inspire those around you to strive for better. 

It’s an achievement that doesn’t just reflect your capability; it amplifies it in others.

8) You’ve achieved a personal goal, no matter how small

When I finally ran a 5k without stopping, it wasn’t about winning a race. It was a personal goal, a commitment to myself. 

So here’s a question: What’s your 5k? 

Maybe it’s reading a book a month, learning a new recipe, or simply getting up early. 

These personal goals may seem small in the grand scheme of things, but achieving them reflects a powerful commitment to self-growth and self-discipline

As the renowned author Paulo Coelho said, “Whatever you think you can do or believe you can do, begin it. Action has magic, grace, and power in it.”

9) You’ve stayed true to your values, even when it was difficult

You’ve likely heard the saying, “Stand for something, or you’ll fall for anything.” This resonates strongly when we talk about staying true to our values. 

Consider Rosa Parks, who, by refusing to give up her seat, became a symbol of integrity and dignity in the face of injustice. 

You may have your own experiences of holding firm to your values, be it in your personal life or workplace, even when it seemed easier to just conform. 

This achievement isn’t about winning popularity; it’s about demonstrating character, strength, and authenticity. 

Your values are your anchor, and honoring them is an achievement that speaks volumes about your true self.

10) You’ve appreciated and enjoyed the simple moments

Remember the joy of catching fireflies as a kid or the warmth of a shared laugh with a friend over coffee? 

Sometimes, life’s most meaningful achievements are found in these simple, fleeting moments. 

Pausing to appreciate the beauty of a sunrise, the melody of a favorite song, or the feel of grass beneath your feet might not seem like grand accomplishments. 

But they connect you with the present and infuse life with a richness and contentment that no trophy could provide. 

Celebrating these ‘little’ moments is an achievement in itself, reflecting a mindful and contented life.

The achievements that matter

Life’s achievements often go unnoticed because they don’t come with grand ceremonies or sparkling medals. 

However, the most important achievements, the ones that truly resonate with our core, have a special secret that sets them apart. 

That secret is: they align with our true selves and enrich our lives and those around us.

1) Alignment with the self

The achievements that truly matter don’t need external validation; they resonate with who you are and what you stand for. 

When you achieve something that aligns with your personal values, passions, or goals, you feel a deep sense of fulfillment

It’s not about what others think or expect of you. It’s about honoring your truth. 

For instance, choosing a career that you love over one that is more lucrative but doesn’t resonate with you is a triumph that echoes your authentic self.

2) Honing your ability to enrich lives

An achievement that matters often goes beyond the self; it has a positive impact on those around you. 

When you inspire someone, help a neighbor, or make a loved one feel valued, you’re achieving something powerful. 

I recall mentoring a young colleague who was struggling with confidence. Seeing him grow and succeed felt more rewarding than any personal accolades. 

These achievements foster connections and create a ripple effect of goodness in the world. 

They might not make headlines, but they make hearts swell with gratitude.

3) Believing in your own capabilities

The last part of the secret is believing that you are indeed capable of these profound achievements. 

Doubts and societal expectations might cloud your judgment and make you underestimate your potential. 

But remember, each step you take toward personal growth, every kind gesture, and each time you stay true to your values, you’re achieving something remarkable. 

Embrace these achievements. Celebrate them, not for the world to see, but for your own contentment and growth.

Final words

The achievements that truly matter are not about prestige, wealth, or fame. They’re about alignment with our true selves, enriching lives, and embracing our own capabilities. 

These are the triumphs that fill us with pride, connect us with others, and make our journey meaningful. 

So, the next time you wonder if you’ve achieved anything worthwhile, look within, and you’ll find a treasure trove of accomplishments that speak to the essence of who you are. 

It’s a beautiful secret, isn’t it?

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