How do you measure success? For musician David Davol, it isn’t about fame or fortune — it’s about living life on your own terms, doing more of what you love, and less of what you don’t.In this latest episode of *The Life Lessons Collective*, I reconnect with David, whose career in music has spanned over 46 years and more than 7,000 performances. From bar gigs and cruise ships to country clubs and concert halls, David’s story is a testament to the power of persistence.His life lesson is simple yet powerful: *the harder you work, the luckier you get.* Whether practicing guitar seven hours a day in a seaside motel or jumping at a last-minute cruise ship opportunity, David shows how preparation opens the door to serendipity.This episode is also a reminder that success isn’t one-size-fits-all. As David puts it, “I’ve done more of what I wanted to do, and less of what I didn’t want to do, than almost anyone I know.” That, to him, is the definition of success. It sure is an inspiring message I think about every day.

David (left) and Carty Brown - mid 1970’s. David’s post about this photo inspired my reaching out to him and our conversation. A positive re-connecting moment in the divisive, stormy seas of today’s social media climate.🌟 Nonprofit Plug

This episode supports Rock to the Future (rocktothefuture.org), providing free, student-driven music programs that build confidence and community for Philadelphia youth.

📚 References

* Peter Block’s The Answer to How Is Yes

* Malcolm Gladwell’s Outliers

* Historical context: The Beatles’ Hamburg years (example of preparation meeting opportunity)

* Spotify playlist of songs mentioned in the episode.