Detaching from metrics: A new way to define success
A few months ago, I celebrated the milestone of reaching 100 podcast episodes—a moment that filled me with pride. But as I recently shifted my schedule to producing episodes every other week instead of weekly, I couldn’t help but notice a nagging unease creeping in. The “high achiever” in me was quick to point out how this change would impact the timeline for reaching my next big milestone: 200 episodes.
Four years. That’s how long it’ll take at this new pace. And let me tell you, my inner high-achiever wasn’t thrilled about it.
Redefining success beyond numbers
This uneasy feeling got me thinking about the weight we place on metrics. In podcasting, business, and life, it’s easy to fall into the trap of letting numbers—downloads, episodes, income—define our success. But here’s the thing: numbers don’t tell the whole story.
To quiet my mental resistance, I came up with a few truths that have helped me reframe my perspective on milestones and metrics. If you’ve ever felt similarly, I hope these resonate with you too.
1. Numbers don’t define worth
The number of episodes you’ve created or followers you’ve gained doesn’t determine your value or the success of your work. My podcast isn’t less meaningful or impactful just because I’m slowing down my publishing schedule. The content—what I share and how it helps others—matters most.
2. Milestones are meaningful, but only when aligned
Rushing to hit a milestone, like reaching 200 episodes, might feel satisfying in the short term. But what does it really mean if the process drains your energy or takes away from the joy of creating? Reaching milestones faster isn’t inherently better. Focusing on quality over quantity ensures that what you create feels intentional and aligned with your goals.
3. Balance fuels sustainability
Consistency is a beautiful thing, but overcommitting can lead to burnout. By reducing my workload, I’ve created space to enjoy summer, take trips, and focus on other important projects. This balance not only nurtures my creativity but also ensures I can continue podcasting without resentment or exhaustion.
4. Change is okay (and sometimes necessary)
The beauty of running your own business or creative endeavor is that you get to decide the rules. Slowing down my podcast schedule doesn’t mean I’m locked into this pace forever—or even that I’ll keep this podcast going indefinitely. If my goals or passions shift, I can adapt. The freedom to change is a gift.
The metrics trap
Reflecting on this, I couldn’t help but think about how deeply ingrained our obsession with numbers is. From school grading systems to social media algorithms, we’re conditioned to see metrics as the ultimate measure of success. But focusing too much on the numbers can overshadow the real reasons we do what we do:
The relief of a more manageable workload.
The enjoyment of creating something that feels aligned.
The excitement for the space we free up to explore new projects and interests.
When we prioritize metrics over experiences, we risk losing sight of what actually benefits us.
Rethinking the role of metrics
This isn’t to say that metrics don’t matter. Numbers can be important indicators of growth, impact, and sustainability. But they shouldn’t be the only factor driving our decisions. By detaching from numbers, we allow ourselves to make holistically beneficial and sustainable choices—not just momentarily satisfying.
Reflection prompts
Take a moment to consider how numbers might be influencing your decisions.
Are metrics overshadowing your desired experiences and outcomes?
Are you using numbers as a benchmark for your self-worth or the legitimacy of your work?
Are metrics preventing you from simplifying, slowing down, or trying new things?
Answering these questions honestly can reveal where you might need to let go of a metrics-first mindset.
A final thought on true success
It’s natural to want to celebrate milestones and track progress—that’s part of the fun! But true success lies in creating something meaningful and sustainable, not just chasing the numbers. When we let go of the pressure to achieve metrics-based goals, we free ourselves to enjoy the journey, adapt to what feels right, and make decisions that truly support our well-being and growth.
Let’s choose to measure success by the impact we make, the joy we feel, and the freedom we cultivate. Because those are the metrics that truly matter.