The traditional definition of success is outdated.

Do you feel excited by the prospect of graduating at 22, working a job until you are 65 and only then retiring and enjoying life? Probably not.

I don't.

Luckily, there may be another way.

Paul Millerd is a former consultant at Mckinsey and founder of his own series of consulting & coaching services. He is also the author of his self-published book, "The Pathless Path" that sold over 50,000 copies. The Pathless Path is an exploration of how he realised that the traditional career path (the "Default Path") was not for him, and how to find a more fulfilling and meaningful way of living.

Here are the things you need to know.

The Default Path vs the Pathless Path

• The Default Path is what everybody expects you to do. It's where you graduate, work a long time, retire, and die. It's safe, but unfulfilling.
• The Pathless Path on the other hand, is about finding your own version of success. It's not about endless money, growth or validation. There is more risk and financial uncertainty. Few do it, but it can lead to greater joy and meaning.

What is "Enough"?

On the pathless path, the goal is not to find a job, make money, build a business, or achieve any other metric. It’s to actively and consciously search for the work that you want to keep doing.

Paul Millerd

One of the main questions that the book poses is: what is enough for you?

Capitalism seeks endless growth, and most of us are along for the ride. We're always seeking the next pay rise, promotion, or business opportunity. Do we always need to? Or are we caught up in chase without knowing the end goal?

Millerd suggests we switch from chasing perpetual achievement to focusing on well-being, sustainable growth, and having a clear understanding of why we do what we do.

Agency & Deliberate Action

The Pathless Path is all about finding the life you want to lead by:

• Continuously learning
• Experimenting
• Adapting as you go

There's no need for drastic changes immediately; take small risks and test changes in small ways before making a larger leap.

Embrace Uncertainty & Discomfort

There's no way around it: this is a life of uncertainty.

Embrace that uncertainty. The goal is not to find a specific job or achieve a specific metric. It's to consciously search for work that you want to keep doing, even if it means feeling uncomfortable or insecure at times.

Would you rather take that risk, or experience the slow, numbing life on a path that society has set out for you?

Who Should Read This Book?

• Anyone feeling unfulfilled by conventional definitions of success.
• Leaders and high-performers questioning their current path.
• Readers interested in redefining work, meaning, and personal growth.

Remember

Don't get caught up in a life that someone else designed for you.

Forge your own path and you may find a life that means a whole more to you. Take time to think about what it is you want from life. Chase your curiousities and your passions.

You'll find life has more to offer when you let it.

Share this with a friend you think would enjoy it.

Thanks friends,

Jack