Success

Success Is a word we hear constantly, but rarely stop to define for ourselves. It’s often measured by grades, titles, or finished products, yet those markers don’t always capture growth, learning, or personal direction. In a creative field especially, success can shift depending on experience, mindset, and goals. This class offers an opportunity to pause, reflect, and reconsider what success actually means at this point in my journey.

Realizing a lifelong dream of opening a cafe to honor my great grandmother felt like success.

What Does Success Look Like To Me?

Success, to me, is not defined by titles or income alone. I see success as being happy, healthy, and living a life with intention. It means showing up every day willing to work hard, do my best, and continue challenging myself even when it feels uncomfortable. Success also means not being afraid to take chances and trusting myself in the process. At its core, success is believing in myself and knowing that growth often comes from stepping outside of what feels safe or familiar.

What Do I Hope To Get Out Of This Class?

From this class, I hope to gain a clearer understanding of my marketability and how my skills translate into real world opportunities. I want the chance to reflect on the work I’ve created over the past two years and truly recognize the growth I’ve experienced as a designer and creative thinker. Turning 50 this year and returning to college to earn my associate’s degree, while working full time and being a mom, has been both challenging and empowering. This class feels like an important moment to pause, assess how far I’ve come, and feel proud of the path I’m on.

What Am I Imagining, Where Am I Now And What Do I Need To Do?

I imagine using this degree to move into freelance work during the off-time from my career as a professional backcountry whitewater fly fishing guide. Currently, I work full time in the winter as the marketing and events director at a ski area, a role I genuinely enjoy and value. At the same time, I recognize that I want to take intentional steps closer to my long-term goal. Closing that gap means refining my portfolio, gaining confidence in how I present my work, and being strategic about how I position myself for freelance opportunities.

How Does This Relate To My Personality Type?

As a Protagonist personality type, I am driven by purpose, growth, and a desire to create meaningful impact. I tend to lead with passion, optimism, and a strong belief in personal development both for myself and others. This mindset fuels my willingness to return to school, reinvent parts of my career, and continue pushing forward even when the path isn’t straightforward. This class aligns closely with who I am: reflective, motivated, and always striving to turn vision into action.