Globally Grounded: Episode 13
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In this episode, Kyra explores how our definitions of success are shaped by culture, economics, and the stories we’ve inherited about work and achievement. Drawing on global research, lived experience, and her own career evolution, she challenges the narrow, resume-driven version of success often emphasized in the U.S.
Rather than replacing one definition with another, this conversation invites listeners to broaden the lens, making space for multiple ways of “making it,” from titles and income to well-being, stability, contribution, and meaning. Whether success for you looks like climbing higher, slowing down, or redefining the rules entirely, this episode offers perspective, permission, and thoughtful questions to carry into your own life and work.
Episode Takeaways
Success is not universal, it’s cultural and contextual. What we’re taught to value as “success” depends heavily on where we live, how economies function, and what societies reward. Recognizing this creates space to question whether the default definition actually fits our lives.
Broadening the definition of success doesn’t mean abandoning ambition. Titles, income, education, and recognition are valid forms of success, but they don’t have to be the only ones. Expanding the definition allows things like ambition and well-being to coexist.
Global perspectives remind us that stability, contribution, and mastery matter too. Across cultures, success is often measured by security, depth of skill, community impact, and quality of life…not just speed or visibility.
You’re allowed to revise your definition of success, especially as life changes. The most grounded definition of success is one that evolves with your season, values, and energy, not one you feel obligated to uphold forever.
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