Many people are so focused on achieving their career goals that they neglect their personal lives. They work long hours, sacrifice their free time, and even compromise their health. But what’s the point of achieving success if you can’t enjoy it?

Success is a journey, not a endless climb—protect your well-being along the way.

Have you heard about the Mexican Fisherman?

An American businessman stood on a pier in a small coastal Mexican village when a small boat with just one fisherman docked. Inside the boat were several large yellowfin tunas. The American complimented the fisherman on the quality of his fish and asked how long it took to catch them. The fisherman replied that it only took a little while. The American then asked why he didn’t stay out longer to catch more fish. The fisherman explained that he had enough to support his family’s immediate needs.

The American then asked, “But what do you do with the rest of your time?”

The fisherman said, “I sleep in late, fish a little, play with my children, take a siesta with my wife Maria, stroll into the village each evening where I drink wine and play guitar with my amigos. I have a full and busy life, señor.”

The American scoffed. “I have an MBA and could help you further yourself.

You should spend more time fishing and with the proceeds, buy a bigger boat. With the proceeds from the bigger boat, you could buy several boats. Eventually, you would have a fleet of fishing boats. Instead of selling your catch to a middleman, you would sell directly to the processor, eventually opening your own cannery. You would control the product, processing, and distribution.

You would leave this small coastal fishing village and move to Mexico City, then L.A., and eventually New York City, where you will run your expanding enterprise.”

The fisherman asked, “But how long will this all take?”

The American replied, “About 10 to 15 years.”

“But what then?” asked the fisherman.

The American laughed and said, “That’s the best part. When the time is right, you would sell your company stock to the public and become very rich. You would make millions.”

“Millions? Then what?” asked the fisherman.

The American said, “Then you would retire. Move to a small coastal fishing village where you would sleep in late, fish a little, play with your kids, take siesta with your wife Maria, stroll to the village in the evenings where you could drink wine and play your guitar with your friends.”

Don’t sacrifice your well-being for the sake of your career.

• Prioritise Health: Ensure that your pursuit of success doesn’t come at the cost of your physical and mental health.
• Value Personal Time: Make time for family, friends, and hobbies. A fulfilling personal life enriches your professional one.
• Set Boundaries: Clearly define your working hours to prevent burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Plan for the Long Term: Consider what you truly want out of life in the long run, not just in terms of career achievements.
• Enjoy the Journey: Success is not just about the destination but also about enjoying the process and experiences along the way.

Finding a way to achieve your goals without neglecting your personal life is the true measure of success.