In relation to this month's topic, I find myself faced with the frustrations of success- will I ever achieve it? What does it take to retain it? I'm a single, young professional (one of the very few left in New Hampshire) and if I've learned anything about my generation it is that we are accustomed to instant gratification ... stimulated by our media outlets, learning styles and the overall pace of today's global economy.

I equate success with personal achievement; have I done enough to leave this world better than I found it? Have I done all I can to protect the environment, do go work, help my fellow man and still maintain a life that is comfortable for my family and me? With the current state of our economy and that hunger for instant gratification, I find myself troubled. Will I ever be successful? Can I have a family and work full time and still afford a home and food on the table?

I wonder if I'm not the only young person living in this expensive state that feels this way, particularly young female professionals with the desire to "do it all."

Best,
Sarah LaPlante
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