An Interview with Karen Mangia
Many of us fear failure, but it’s often the most valuable part of the journey. Early in my coaching career, I launched a course that didn’t reach the number of people I had hoped. At first, I was disappointed, but I soon realized that the course wasn’t a failure — it was feedback. It helped me refine my message and understand my audience better. I relaunched the course with greater clarity and success. Failure is never the end; it’s a stepping stone toward growth and deeper understanding. Embracing failure as part of the process opens up more possibilities for learning and success.
Have you ever noticed how often we equate success with more? Whether that’s more products, more profits, more activities or more accomplishments, we buy into the belief that we have to do more to have more to be more. And that will sum up to success. And then along comes The Great Resignation. Where employees are signaling that the “more” that’s being offered — even more pay, more perks, and more PTO — isn’t summing up to success for them. We visited with leaders who are redefining what success means now. Their answers might surprise you.
As a part of this series I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Robin Emmerich.
Robin Emmerich, D.PSc., is a highly trained and certified expert in the subconscious mind, having received her training from the renowned psychologist Dr. Coletta Long. She has also completed the esteemed ‘Creativity in Business’ course at Stanford University, taught by Dr. Michael Ray. Robin’s personal journey and extensive professional knowledge have equipped her with a unique methodology to help individuals uncover their true desires and live a deeply fulfilling life. She’s gained recognition in various arenas including Inc Media’s first-ever invitee for ‘Ask Me Anything in Health and Wellness,’ the inaugural Career Coach for Bumble Bizz, Austin Under 40 Awards 2019 ‘Mentor of the Year’ finalist, and most recently launched her book, Love the Mess, which quickly soared to the number one spot on the Amazon bestseller lists for both Death & Grief and Creativity Self-Help categories.
Thank you for making time to visit with us about the topic of our time. Our readers would like to get to know you a bit better. Can you please tell us about one or two life experiences that most shaped who you are today?
Yes, thank you for having me! There have been many pivotal moments in my life, but two stand out as the most transformative in shaping who I am today.
The first experience was when I took time to travel through Italy with a friend during my early years as an entrepreneur. At that time, I believed that taking time off from work for fun and pleasure wasn’t an option. I thought I had to be “on” all the time to build my business and achieve success. However, this trip across Italy opened up a world of creativity, meaning, and purpose that I hadn’t experienced before. One of the most profound moments happened in Tuscany, where we were exploring the countryside, and I felt a deep sense of connection to both myself and the beauty around me. It was during that trip that I realized how crucial it is to create space for joy and play, and how these moments of stillness and pleasure can fuel our creativity and help us align with our true purpose. This experience taught me that true success doesn’t come from constant work, but from creating a balance between ambition and living a life filled with meaningful moments.
The second experience was a challenging period in my personal life when everything seemed to be falling apart — relationships were ending, my career was in flux, and I felt lost in the uncertainty. Instead of resisting the changes, I learned to embrace the messiness and trust that life was unfolding exactly as it needed to. This phase of my life inspired my book, Love the Mess, where I shared the lessons I learned about resilience, surrender, and personal growth. It became clear that real success comes not from controlling every outcome, but from trusting in the process, even when it feels chaotic.
Both of these experiences — whether traveling and learning to balance work with pleasure or navigating personal upheaval — shaped my understanding that true success is about embracing change, finding joy in the present, and aligning with your inner truth, regardless of life’s uncertainties.
We all have myths and misconceptions about success. What are some myths or misconceptions that you used to believe?
I used to believe that success was defined by external achievements — titles, accolades, financial milestones, and recognition from others. This idea of success was rooted in societal expectations, where self-worth was measured by how much you could accomplish in a short time, often at the cost of personal well-being. I also fell into the trap of thinking that success was linear, something you could plan and execute flawlessly if you just followed the right steps.
Another misconception was that success had to be achieved alone, as if collaboration or asking for help diminished your personal accomplishments. I believed it was a solo journey, requiring endless hustle and a perfectionist mindset.
How has your definition of success changed?
My definition of success has transformed in profound ways over the years. In the past, I measured success by the external markers society emphasizes — achievements, accolades, and the relentless pursuit of “more.” I believed success was something you could earn by constantly pushing yourself toward bigger goals, often at the expense of well-being and joy. But I eventually realized that this approach left me feeling disconnected and unfulfilled.
Today, success is a deeply personal experience, defined by how aligned I am with my purpose and how much joy and balance I bring into my everyday life. It’s no longer about the end result or societal validation, but the journey of growing, learning, and embracing life’s inevitable messiness. One of the most powerful shifts for me was learning to value the small moments — whether it’s a meaningful conversation with a client, a creative spark, or simply taking time to nurture my own well-being. I now see success as a state of being that includes peace, self-awareness, and meaningful contribution, rather than a race to the next milestone.
This redefinition has also opened me up to collaboration in a way I hadn’t experienced before. I now see that true fulfillment comes from working together, sharing wisdom, and elevating others along the way. Success is not something you achieve in isolation; it’s about the connections we build, the lives we touch, and the joy we cultivate together
The pandemic, in many ways, was a time of collective self-reflection. What changes do you believe we need to make as a society to access success post pandemic?
The pandemic was a global wake-up call, forcing us to re-examine what truly matters and how we define success. One of the most significant changes we need to embrace moving forward is prioritizing well-being — both individually and collectively. We can no longer afford to be driven by a culture of constant busyness and overachievement, which leaves so many people feeling burned out and disconnected. Success, in this new era, must be measured not by external accomplishments but by the quality of our relationships, the state of our mental health, and how aligned we are with our core values and sense of purpose.
We also need to cultivate empathy in both our personal lives and workplaces. The pandemic made it clear just how interconnected we all are. Success should no longer be viewed as a personal victory alone, but as something that grows when we lift each other up, support those in need, and create systems that allow everyone to thrive. This means rethinking how we work — embracing flexible, hybrid models that promote balance, creativity, and resilience, while redefining productivity to include emotional well-being and innovation.
Another key shift we need to make is placing greater value on authenticity. The pandemic gave many of us the time and space to let go of outdated societal expectations and rediscover what truly matters. Success in a post-pandemic world should be about living in alignment with our authentic selves, embracing our unique paths, and pursuing fulfillment rather than simply conforming to conventional standards of achievement.
What do you see as the unexpected positives in the pandemic? We would love to hear a few of your stories or examples.
While the pandemic brought immense challenges, it also offered unexpected gifts. One of the most valuable positives was the opportunity to slow down. For many of us, the pause allowed for deep reflection on what truly matters. Without the constant distractions of pre-pandemic life, I found myself reconnecting with my creative passions, particularly my art, in ways I hadn’t been able to before. It was a reminder that success isn’t just about productivity but about nurturing our creative spirit and finding joy in the present moment.
I also witnessed how the pandemic brought a renewed emphasis on community and connection. Even in the midst of physical distancing, people found new ways to support each other. Virtual gatherings, whether for work or personal reasons, created a sense of global unity that transcended borders. One client I worked with was stuck in a cycle of overworking, feeling disconnected from her purpose. The pandemic gave her the space to reassess her life and career. Through our sessions, she realized that true success wasn’t about climbing the corporate ladder but about creating a balanced life that included time for self-care, creativity, and meaningful relationships. She ended up shifting careers and now feels more aligned and fulfilled than ever.
Another unexpected positive was the emphasis on adaptability and innovation. Businesses pivoted to survive in a new digital landscape, while individuals took the opportunity to learn new skills or pursue long-neglected passions. The pandemic taught us the importance of resilience in the face of uncertainty. We realized that success isn’t always about sticking to a predetermined path, but about our ability to embrace change and evolve. One of the most powerful lessons I’ve seen is that flexibility and creativity, both personally and professionally, are key to thriving in a constantly shifting world.
We’re all looking for answers about how to be successful now. Could you please share “5 Ways To Redefine Success Now?”
Absolutely! Here are five powerful ways to redefine success that will help you cultivate a more fulfilling, balanced, and purpose-driven life:
- Align Success with Your Core Values
True success begins with identifying what truly matters to you. So many of us chase external markers like money, status, or recognition, only to feel empty once we achieve them. During the pandemic, one of my clients — a high-level executive — realized she had reached every milestone she’d set, yet felt completely unfulfilled. We worked to rediscover her core values — creativity, connection, and contribution. She began shifting her focus to projects that allowed her to express these values, finding greater fulfillment in her work. Aligning your definition of success with your values creates not just career success, but a life that feels meaningful and true to who you are.
2. Embrace a Holistic Approach to Well-Being
Success isn’t just about external achievements — it’s about the health of your mind, body, and soul. Early in my entrepreneurial journey, I was so focused on my career that I neglected my own well-being. I felt the weight of constantly achieving more, but I wasn’t truly living. I started incorporating daily practices like meditation and setting boundaries around my work hours, and it transformed my energy and creativity. One of my clients, who had struggled with burnout, also began prioritizing self-care, and the results were remarkable. She became not only more productive but also happier and more balanced. Success includes how well we take care of ourselves.
3. Redefine Failure as a Catalyst for Growth
Many of us fear failure, but it’s often the most valuable part of the journey. Early in my coaching career, I launched a course that didn’t reach the number of people I had hoped. At first, I was disappointed, but I soon realized that the course wasn’t a failure — it was feedback. It helped me refine my message and understand my audience better. I relaunched the course with greater clarity and success. Failure is never the end; it’s a stepping stone toward growth and deeper understanding. Embracing failure as part of the process opens up more possibilities for learning and success.
4. Prioritize Relationships and Community
True success isn’t achieved in isolation — it’s about the relationships we build and the communities we nurture. One of my clients was so focused on building her business that she had neglected her relationships with family and friends. As we worked on balancing her work and personal life, she found that reconnecting with her loved ones not only brought her more fulfillment but also reignited her passion for her work. Strong relationships offer support, inspiration, and joy, all of which enhance your sense of success. Remember, success is as much about connection as it is about personal achievement.
5. Embrace Flexibility and Flow
We’ve been conditioned to believe that success follows a linear path, but life doesn’t work that way. One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned is to embrace flexibility. A few years ago, I had a set plan to expand my coaching business in a specific way, but life had other plans. An unexpected opportunity arose to integrate my art into my coaching work, something I hadn’t originally considered. By staying open to the flow of life, I was able to expand in ways I hadn’t envisioned, and it led to deeper fulfillment and creativity. Success often looks different from what we originally planned — and that’s the beauty of it. Being flexible allows us to evolve and grow in unexpected, powerful ways.
How would our lives improve if we changed our definition of success?
When we shift our definition of success from being solely achievement-based to something more aligned with our values, well-being, and relationships, our lives improve in profound ways. First and foremost, we experience more joy and less stress. Instead of constantly chasing after the next milestone, we can savor the present moment and appreciate the journey.
We also create more meaningful connections with others. When success is defined by collaboration, contribution, and community, we invest more time in nurturing those relationships that bring richness to our lives.
Finally, by redefining success, we give ourselves permission to grow, to pivot, and to follow paths that bring us true fulfillment, even if they don’t fit the traditional mold. We become more adaptable, more resilient, and more in tune with our authentic selves. Ultimately, this shift leads to a life that feels more balanced, purposeful, and aligned with who we truly are.
What’s the biggest obstacle that stands in the way of our redefined success? And what advice would you offer about overcoming those obstacles?
The biggest obstacle that stands in the way of our redefined success is fear of letting go. So many of us hold onto old beliefs, societal expectations, and definitions of success because they feel familiar and safe. We’ve been conditioned to equate success with external validation — titles, financial wealth, or societal approval. Letting go of these deeply ingrained ideas can feel risky and uncomfortable, almost as if we are stepping into the unknown without a safety net.
This fear often leads to self-doubt, where we question whether our new definition of success is “good enough” or whether we’ll be judged for choosing a path that looks different from others. We might also fear failure, thinking that if we pursue something aligned with our authentic selves, we could fall short.
My advice for overcoming these obstacles is to start small. Take a moment to reflect on what truly makes you feel fulfilled and successful. What are the moments in your life when you felt at peace, joyful, or fully yourself? Use those experiences as your compass to redefine success on your own terms. Begin by letting go of just one outdated belief, and see how that shift feels. Surround yourself with people who understand and support your journey, as their encouragement can help dissolve any lingering fears or doubts.
Another critical piece is to practice self-compassion. Redefining success is a deeply personal process, and it takes time. You might face setbacks or moments of uncertainty, but instead of seeing those as failures, recognize them as part of your growth. The more compassion you give yourself, the easier it becomes to embrace a new, more fulfilling definition of success.
Where do you go to look for inspiration and information about how to redefine success?
I find inspiration in a variety of places, often where I least expect it. Nature is a huge source of inspiration for me. There’s something about the natural world — the way seasons change, growth happens organically, and nothing is rigid — that reminds me of the ebb and flow of life. This mirrors my understanding of success, which is not linear but something that evolves with time. It helps me stay grounded in the belief that success can look different at various stages of life, and it’s perfectly okay to redefine it as I grow.
My partner and our family are also an endless source of inspiration. The way we support each other through life’s ups and downs reminds me that success is deeply connected to the love, trust, and bonds we create with those closest to us. Watching my partner balance their own ambitions while nurturing our family has shown me that true success is about finding harmony between personal fulfillment and shared joy. Our family moments — whether it’s time spent together over a meal or celebrating milestones — are reminders that success is just as much about the relationships we cultivate as the achievements we pursue.
I also look for inspiration within my community. The people I work with — clients, fellow coaches, artists, and entrepreneurs — are constantly redefining success in ways that reflect their unique journeys. Hearing their stories and seeing how they navigate challenges with authenticity and purpose inspires me to continue growing and evolving in my own work.
Books and personal growth resources have also been pivotal in shaping my perspective on success. Authors like Caroline Myss and Michael Singer have deeply influenced me, encouraging me to explore success through the lens of energy, spirituality, and surrender. Their teachings remind me that success isn’t something to be controlled or forced but something that flows from alignment with our true selves.
Finally, art continues to be a major source of inspiration. Whether I’m painting or engaging with other creative expressions, art allows me to explore my emotions and experiences in new ways. It’s a reminder that success is not just about external achievements, but about the joy, creativity, and self-expression we allow ourselves to experience. Art, like life, is a journey that offers infinite opportunities to redefine what success means.
We are very blessed that some of the biggest names in Business, VC funding, Sports, and Entertainment read this column. Is there a person in the world, or in the US, with whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch, and why? He, she or they might just see this if we tag them.
If I could have a private breakfast or lunch with anyone, it would be Caroline Myss. Her teachings on energy, healing, and the power of personal transformation have been pivotal in shaping my approach to life and work. Caroline has a gift for making the invisible forces that guide our lives — like energy and intuition — tangible and accessible. Her work is deeply aligned with my own mission to help people break free from outdated definitions of success and step into their true power.
Together, we are witnessing what I like to call “The Soulful Success Era,” an era where success is no longer measured by external achievements alone, but by how deeply we align with our purpose, well-being, and connection to others. In this new era, we are seeing a profound shift toward authenticity, personal growth, and spiritual alignment as the ultimate markers of success. Much like how Taylor Swift’s eras represent different phases of her personal and creative evolution, The Soulful Success Era represents a collective awakening — a time when people are redefining what it means to truly thrive, both in their careers and in their personal lives.
In my work as a transformational coach and artist, I guide clients to embrace this new era by helping them heal old narratives, tap into their creative potential, and redefine success on their own terms. Like Caroline, I believe in the power of inner work to shift our external realities, and I would love to explore with her how we can inspire even more people to embrace their own Soulful Success Era.
Similar to how Taylor Swift has mastered the art of evolving with every era she enters, I believe we are all capable of creating our own transformative eras — ones where we lead with heart, authenticity, and a deeper connection to our soul’s purpose. Breakfast with Caroline would be a beautiful opportunity to dive deeper into how we can expand this movement and make it an even greater force for change in the world.
How can our readers further follow your work online?
Thank you so much! I’d love to connect with you on Instagram @robin_emmerich, or you can visit https://go.robinemmerich.com/free-chapter-2 to grab a copy of my most transformative Love the Mess Free Chapter: How to Master Your Inner World & Elevate Your Career and Relationships to Truly Have It All… Even Amidst Uncertainty and Stress!
Thank you for these fantastic insights. We greatly appreciate the time you spent on this. We wish you continued success and good health.
About The Interviewer: Karen Mangia is one of the most sought-after keynote speakers in the world, sharing her thought leadership with over 10,000 organizations during the course of her career. As Vice President of Customer and Market Insights at Salesforce, she helps individuals and organizations define, design and deliver the future. Discover her proven strategies to access your own success in her fourth book Success from Anywhere and by connecting with her on LinkedIn and Twitter.
Author Robin Emmerich On Why & How We Need To Redefine Success Now was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.