I never used to think much about what it means to feel successful. It’s all so relative, the idea is hard to grasp. Just lately I’ve begun to wonder what it really means.
I’m one of those people who never really experiences satisfaction with anything I’ve done often finding fault with things I’ve created, even when others think it perfect. In terms of actual material accomplishments, I tend to think I’ve failed despite whatever achievements have been gained or obstacles overcome.
It often seems that the perception of others is actually what makes one a success. So does this mean that if you think I’m already there, am I? If everyone in the world were to think of me as successful but I don’t feel it, does that make me a failure? If everyone else sees me as a failure, but I think I’m a success, then which is true?
Is this just an inability to see oneself objectively? Do some of us tend to dwell on the negative side of life? Am I simply a malcontent or am I afraid to be content? Is contentment, complacency?
I could probably contemplate this way for hours and get nowhere. I’d better get back to the business of making something or risk the threat of creative stagnation. There I go again!
Art-Z Jewelry 
Zoraida ~
This is a wonderful post with many options. My opinion is that yes, if others believe your work to be something they desire you are successful (in their eyes anyway). If, on the other hand, you are never quite satisfied with your creation you run the risk of believing yourself not to be successful (yet). As an artist, we are all continuing to learn and to morph into becoming more creative with each creation. I don’t believe we ever truly “arrive”. Just like Life, everything is continually changing – even our perceptions of ourselves. ^_^
Continued creativity,
Diane