When you read the word, success, what immediately comes to mind? If wealthy business people, famous celebrities, and those who have accomplished more than yourself are your initial thoughts, then you may not be on track to unlocking your own full potential. There are serious dangers in the road to success, and some may be hidden from you until the end of your journey.

Idolizing successful individuals is not necessarily a problem in its own right. In fact, knowing there is someone out there in the world who was able to accomplish everything that you've ever dreamed of is a great source of motivation. That being said, serious issues begin to arise when you start to lose yourself in the pursuit of your goals, becoming detached from your own strengths and weaknesses.

"How could I forget who I am?" is a reasonable question in response to such a bold statement. Primarily, it is easy to idolize a celebrity and strive to become similar to them. After all, why shouldn't you try to be like one of your heroes? Copying their characteristics, mannerisms, and interests seem like reasonable steps to emulating their life and gain some of the same fame or fortune. However, emulation is the ultimate downfall in becoming successful yourself.

There are so many people who think to themselves, "How can I be more like them?" when the real question should be "How can I become a better me?" The harsh reality is that just because you are able to copy someone else does not mean you will ever be remotely similar. In fact, you may even become a worse version of yourself.

Take careers for example, if I were an artist who had talent in sculpting, but noticed those in the life-like painting industry make far more money and generally seem happier, should I give up what I'm doing now and copy those who seem to be doing better than myself? What if despite many classes, I still could not come close to becoming a lifelike painter?

I say you should reflect on yourself. Do not reflect with another person in the picture. Focus only on you as an individual. Evaluate why you chose the field you are in now, why you are good at the work you do, and what your biggest weaknesses are. These are the questions you should ask and not, "What makes others successful?"

These strategies seem all too simple. But if I were to ask, "Who are you?", can you honestly give an answer? Not your job title or your university greek life association, but you as a unique individual. If you have to think about that, I encourage you to break away from the path of emulation, and begin the true path of success, becoming you.