In a society that often equates success with material wealth and high status, many of us find ourselves chasing after images of prosperity and achievement shaped not by our personal values, but by external influences. Think of the typical symbols of success: expansive houses, sleek cars, and lavish lifestyles—often glorified by the media and deeply ingrained in our cultural psyche.
Yet, as I sat reflecting post-30 on what truly enriches life, I realized that true success might look quite different from the conventional portrayal. Echoing Alain de Botton’s observation, our notion of success is rarely our own but rather an amalgamation of societal standards and external expectations.
The Pitfalls of Conventional Success
1. The Overrated Pursuit of Fame and Wealth:
Celebrities and billionaires often warn about the emptiness that accompanies fame and wealth. Consider the insights of Brad Pitt and Bill Gates, who have shared candid thoughts on the burdens of fame and the overrated allure of immense wealth. Even the Bible cautions us, stating in Luke 12 that life’s worth is not contingent on possessions.
2. A Narrow Definition:
Modern success often emphasizes financial achievement and popularity, sidelining critical aspects of life such as relationships, health, and spiritual fulfillment. This limited view can lead to a life that, despite its riches, lacks depth and genuine contentment.
3. The Dilemma of Inherited Success:
If we accept a pre-packaged definition of success, we risk living a life dictated by others’ values and expectations, rather than forging a path that fulfills our unique purpose and passions.
Redefining Success: A Personal Journey
To break free from these constraints, it’s crucial to delve into a personal exploration of what success truly means to you. Here are three pivotal questions to guide this reflection:
1. What does success mean to you personally?
Redefining success on your terms might mean prioritizing relationships over riches, or seeking fulfillment in contributions to your community rather than corporate achievements. It’s about crafting a definition that resonates with your values and aspirations.
2. Why do you seek this form of success?
Understanding your motives is essential. Are you driven by a desire to make a positive impact, or are you pursuing goals set by someone else? Aligning your pursuits with your personal values and passions ensures that your efforts are meaningful and satisfying.
3. What are you willing to sacrifice to achieve this success?
Every worthwhile endeavor requires some form of sacrifice. Identifying what you are willing to forego—whether it’s excessive work hours, unnecessary luxuries, or societal approval—can clarify your commitment and help you focus on your chosen path.
Embracing a Broader Vision
As we redefine success, it’s important to embrace a holistic view that accommodates various aspects of life. True success encompasses not only career achievements but also personal growth, relationships, and a sense of spiritual fulfillment. This balanced approach fosters a life of richness that material wealth alone cannot provide.
In the journey towards redefined success, let’s aim to live intentionally, making choices that reflect our deepest values and aspirations. By doing so, we create a life that is not only successful by our own standards but also richly rewarding and profoundly meaningful.
This is an updated edition of a post originally published on Faith Activist
Featured Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay
