Summary

The article discusses reframing one's understanding of success and money, advocating for personal definitions and aligning life with core values and purpose.

Abstract

The author of the article emphasizes the importance of defining success on one's own terms rather than adhering to societal standards. They share a personal journey of chasing money and conventional success, only to find it led to a loss of self and happiness. The article outlines a three-step process to realign one's life with a personalized vision of success: first, by identifying what success truly means to the individual; second, by determining the deeper 'why' that motivates one's actions; and third, by ensuring that daily life aligns with these personal definitions and motivations. The author suggests that this approach leads to a more meaningful, purposeful, and delightful life, where money and success become supportive tools rather than ends in themselves.

Opinions

The author believes that societal definitions of success can lead to alienation, loss of meaning, and separation from important aspects of life.
Success should not be measured by financial wealth or external achievements but by personal fulfillment and contribution to others.
The pursuit of money and success, as defined by society, can result in a tragic and lonely life if it comes at the expense of relationships and personal values.
The article posits that introspection is crucial in understanding one's own vision of success and what truly brings a sense of achievement.
It is suggested that by focusing on personal 'why' questions, individuals become more open to opportunities and can navigate life with a clearer sense of purpose.
The author asserts that life's meaning comes from within and that external achievements are secondary to personal growth and self-awareness.

Discover How to Turn Success from an Enemy into a Friend

Only you know what success looks like.

I used to chase money and success as the solution to my problems.

I worked long hours, worried about promotions, compared myself to my co-workers. I lost myself somewhere along the way. It wasn’t until I stepped away from the rat race that I could see my mistake.

Money is a tool to support my life, not my life itself. Success is how I define it, not how the world defines it.

I fell for the world’s definition of money and success, when all I wanted was to be happy, live with purpose, and contribute to others.

I discovered how to turn money and success from enemies into friends.

Money and success are both neutral energy, until you decide what they mean to you.

If you live from the world’s definition of success, you could end up tragic and alone.

Think about it: if you place money and success above all things (family, friends, etc.) what is the logical result?

alienation from others and yourself
loss of meaning in your life
separation from other parts of your life

No one wants to look back on their life and see that they chased the wrong thing.

Instead of living from the world’s definition of success, follow your own definition. It takes three steps of looking inside to identify your own definition.

The result of living from your personalized success is that life is meaningful, purposeful, and delightful.

#1. What does success mean to you?

Only you can decide what success means.

Turn away from the culture’s pictures of perfect people leading perfect lives. It’s all an illusion and you will never be able to duplicate it.

Instead, ask yourself what makes you feel successful.

Is it the money you make, the things you buy or something else?
Is the the quality of your relationships or how many social media followers you have?
Is it the work you do that helps others?

These are just a few questions to ask yourself as you paint your vision of success. In the end, the ultimate question is: “Who you are becoming?”

#2. What is your “why” — the reason you rise every morning?

Define your “why” — the reason that supports everything.

These are deep questions that may not have answers right now. Remember, as you ask these questions, listen to your inner voice and notice any signs that may appear.

Why are you here?
What is your purpose in life?
Why does it matter?

As you begin to focus on your “why,” you will discover that you are more open to opportunities. This process is evolutionary and not linear, so be patient with yourself as you explore your “whys.”

Remember the ultimate question, “Who am I becoming?”

#3. Look at your life to align it with your definition of success and your why.

Line up your definition of success + your why and ask yourself, “Is my life aligned?” If the answer is no, look at the areas that are out of sync. Make changes aligned with your why and your success vision.

The solution to your problems doesn’t lie outside of you. It is waiting for you to decide some of the basic questions about life.

You are the cause and the world is the effect.

When you are clear on your vision of success and purpose, the world will roll in ecstasy at your feet.

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