The signs of success.

 We've all experienced those days when we feel like an absolute failure. It's a normal feeling when things don't go as exactly planned. And, when we feel like that, it's challenging to think of yourself as a successful individual.

Even though we all have our own definitions of success, there are also a number of signs that we're overlooking that can let us know that we're actually more successful than we could have ever guessed. 

And here are 12 of those signs.

1. You are no longer controlled by income.

We all know that money is a big deal. We all have bills to pay. And while it striving to make more money in theory sounds like a great idea, at what price would you pay to earn that extra income? Would be willing to neglect to your friends and family? Would be willing to skip that dream vacation? Would be willing to work 60 hours per work at a job that you're not passionate about?

Yes. Earning a comfortable living and being responsible with your money is always a good thing. But, if you let that completely control your life, you're missing out on a lot of incredible experiences that money can't buy.

2. You're empathetic.

We've all come across those people you think that they're the center of the universe. Compare this person to some of the most successful people in the world.

Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, Oprah Winfrey, Tim Cook, and Amancio Ortega (the founder of Zara) realized that they can't achieve without the help of others. And, that required them to be empathic and help others achieve their dreams as well - instead of boasting how successful they are.

3. Things are quieter.

Think back to those days when you got upset because this person said something that rubbed you the wrong way. It was immature and added a lot of unnecessary stress to your life. If you have removed those people and situations that make your life more drama-life, then you're definitely a success. After all, who doesn't enjoy a quieter home and workplace?

4. You work everyday to overcome your fears.

There will always be something that we're afraid of. Instead of succumbing to that fear and missing out on priceless experiences, we make an effort each and every to overcome that fear. Even if that's simply doing one thing a day that gets you out of your comfort zone, like trying that new Thai restaurant, it's a step in the right direction.

5. You don't seek praise.

I hate to sound cold here, but you aren't always to get a sticker or a pat on the back when you do something well. I've found that most successful people do things because they get personal satisfaction from the work that they do.

6. You're positive.

It took me a awhile to come realize this, but there's a bright-side to everything in your life. Your business failed? Sure. It sucks. But, maybe that's because you had a terrible product. Now you have a better understanding in what people are looking for.

7. You've raised your standards.

You now hold yourself, and others, accountable. This means that you no longer accept inappropriate behavior and excuses. For example, if you have that friend who is always borrowing money, and never pays you back, and you've decided to end that friendship then you've raised your standards in the people that you want to surround yourself with.

8. You no longer compare yourself to others.

Instead of worrying about what other people are doing or what they have, focus on your life and how you can make it better. If not, you'll never make the steps needed to become successful since you'll be consumed by jealously.

9. You have a plan.

Do you have an idea of where you want to be next week? Next year? Five years from now? Successful people have a roadmap that they can use that can guide them on how they'll get from Point A to Point B.

10. You embrace failure.

Failure happens to the best of us. Instead of dwelling on it and expecting to fail over and over again, successful people dust themselves off and learn from their mistakes. That may sound cliche, but failure is an overwhelmingly powerful learning experience that can not only show you where you went wrong, but also spark your creativity as you look for innovative solutions to help you get out of this rough patch.

11. You're excited to learn something new.

The most successful people in the strive to learn something new. It's actually a part of their morning routines as they either seek knowledge that can help them understand their industry or grow as individuals.

12. You ask for help when you need it.

There's no shame in asking for help. In fact, refusing to ask for help is a sign of emotional immaturity. When you ask for help, it shows that you're mature enough to realize that you're not perfect and you need a little help from your friends.