The Fine Line Between Success and Delusion (And Why You Should Cross It)

Some people say success requires hard work, strategy, and maybe a little luck. I say it also requires delusion but hear me out before you call for a wellness check.

I’m not talking about the kind of delusion that has you arguing with a lamp post or thinking your cat is telepathic. No, I mean the kind of delusion where you live in the world you’re creating before it fully exists. The kind where you believe in yourself so much that reality has no choice but to catch up.

Delusion Level 1: The Billboard Fantasy

I once said to someone, “When I finally get my first billboard photo, I’m going to brag about it.” Mind you, at the time, I was in university selling budget-friendly bags and shoes out of my hostel room. Naturally, he laughed and asked, “What do you plan on doing that’s billboard-worthy?”

I, with my full chest, responded, “This same business.”

Fast forward five years, and while my face still isn’t on a billboard (yet), my business is thriving, and I started my own brand. So, was I crazy? Maybe. But was I right? Also, yes.

Delusion Level 2: Board Meetings for One

One of my friends does accounting for my business. We meet up every two weeks to discuss sales, marketing, and what I’m doing to grow. He calls it a catch-up. I call it a board meeting. And yes, I dress up like I’m walking into a high-rise office in Birmingham, even though it’s just me, my laptop, and my overpriced latte.

Right now, I am the board. I’m the CEO, the social media manager, the customer service rep, the photographer, and sometimes even the unpaid intern. But I call it a board meeting because one day, there will be an actual boardroom, and I will be in it. Might as well start the tradition early.

Delusion Level 3: The Porsche Prophecy

When I sold my first three tumblers, I was so excited that I texted my friend, “Looks like we’re getting that Porsche soon!”

Now, let’s break this down:

1. I had only sold three tumblers.

2. I had just passed my driving test.

3. I didn’t even own a car.

4. I was talking about a Porsche.

But here’s the funny thing, my friend believes in my delusion almost as much as I do. So much so that when I passed my driving test, his present to me was a key holder that says “My other car is a Porsche.” I haven’t even bought my first car yet, but I already have accessories for my future one. That’s the level of faith we’re operating on.

The Key ring that reminds me of my dreams

Laugh all you want, but one day, I will drive that Porsche. Why? Because I’ve already decided it’s mine—I just haven’t picked it up yet.

Final Thoughts: Be Delusional, But Make It Productive

What I’m saying is, if you don’t start speaking and envisioning big things for yourself, they won’t happen. This isn’t fake it till you make it, this is do it like you’ve already made it.

So go ahead, hold board meetings for your one-person business, dream of your billboard moment, and pick out your luxury car before you’ve even learned how to parallel park. Reality has a funny way of catching up with those who believe in themselves enough to live like it’s already done because success and Delusion go hand in hand.

---

If you enjoy reflections like this, subscribe to my monthly love letters for more thoughts, stories, and life updates straight to your inbox.

And if you're looking for a little daily reminder that you matter, check out Vive by Seisarl, a collection of tumblers designed with intention, confidence, and self-love in mind.

The Positive Flow Tumbler

Buy Now