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Success comes in different forms for different people. Some professionals base success on making as much money as possible. For others, it's about working less, and spending more time doing things they enjoy outside of work.

By Matt Krumrie, Star Tribune Sales and Marketing

Last update: July 27, 2006 - 5:59 PM

If you fit into the latter category, it doesn't mean you have less passion, drive and pride in the work you do. However, it just might be more difficult to convey that message to your company, co-workers, clients, friends and family.

"I don't think that succeeding at work when your personal, family or outside interests are your main focus is all that different from succeeding at work when your career is your primary focus," says Peggy Andrews, principal of Mendota Heights-based Andrews Consulting, which provides HR leadership to companies on a project basis. "The goals are a bit different, but that doesn't mean that you don't try to make a positive contribution to your company."

Andrews, who has a Master of Arts degree in human development with a focus on work-life issues in corporate America, and who offers a seminar entitled the Pain-Free Job Search to job clubs and groups, says it's important to remember that you were hired and are being paid to do a job - not to parade your personal ideologies throughout the workplace.

When you work, do a good job and follow through on your responsibilities.

Be respectful of others, and listen to and try to understand their concerns and support their goals whenever you can.

Don't spend time explaining or apologizing for your priorities - focus on making a contribution when you are at work, and your outside life won't even be brought up.

When you are not at work, focus on the things you enjoy and come back refreshed and ready to go.

Andrews says it's also important to keep in mind that what works for you might not work for others. Don't judge an individual because of his or her professional or personal lifestyle or choices.

"Bottom line, behave like a professional," says Andrews. "The notion of an honest day's work for an honest day's pay doesn't change just because someone wants to have an outside life."

Matt Krumrie is a freelance writer from Inver Grove Heights, and has eight years of experience reporting on the employment industry. The first Sunday of each month this column will answer readers' questions. E-mail questions or subject ideas to askmatt@startribune.com.

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