avatarLeann Zotis

Summary

The article contemplates the dilemma of setting new goals after surpassing one's wildest dreams, as seen through the lens of super-achievers like Bill Gates and Oprah Winfrey.

Abstract

The piece delves into the mindset of high achievers who have reached unprecedented levels of success, questioning how they continue to set goals beyond their monumental accomplishments. It acknowledges the author's admiration for these individuals and the inspiration they provide, while also pondering the deeper motivations that drive such people beyond mere financial gain. The article suggests that these achievers likely possess an intrinsic desire to improve the world, leading them to philanthropy and other world-bettering endeavors. It also encourages readers to consider how they might contribute positively to their own world on their journey to success.

Opinions

  • The author expresses admiration rather than jealousy towards super-achievers, viewing their success as a source of inspiration.
  • There is a belief that the drive to achieve greatness is linked to a personality trait that goes beyond the accumulation of wealth.
  • The article posits that philanthropy is a natural progression for the ultra-successful, who see the potential for infinite impact beyond their financial success.
  • The author suggests that everyone, including themselves, should strive to make a positive impact on their world as they pursue their dreams and fortune.
  • It is implied that money alone cannot satisfy the deeper desires of high achievers, indicating that their ambitions are tied to a broader vision for societal improvement.

What If You Actually Achieved All Your Dreams?

How do you find a new goal when you’ve reached a level beyond your wildest expectations?

Photo by bruce mars on Unsplash

I often look with interest at the lives of the super-achievers. You know who I mean, the Bill Gates, Jeff Bezos, Oprah Winfrey or Richard Branson types in the world.

Oh, don’t get me wrong. I’m not jealous. Not even in the least. I have always admired, and aspired to, the accomplishments of others. If they can achieve greatness then, perhaps, in some parallel universe, there may still be hope for me. At least, that’s how I look at it.

I don’t want to keep everyone down at the groveling level of existence. I really, truly root for everyone who seeks something beyond their present state of being.

But, getting back to the super-achievers of life, I wonder just one thing.

What do you do when you’ve already done so very, very much in your life? How do you set new goals when you have far exceeded the wildest, craziest dreams of most of the other humans on the planet?

I know it’s a common reaction for these ultra-successful people to give back to humanity in the form of philanthropic endeavors. I’m all in favor of that. Again, I applaud the generosity and greatness of anyone who has far more wealth and resources than they could ever expect to consume themselves.

But, philanthropy occurs after the hard work of creating and achieving is done. Whatever it is that drives anyone to that level of greatness achieved by only a few seems to me to be a deeply ingrained personality trait that cannot be satisfied simply by amassing a fortune.

There is more to these brilliant types than the basic drive to earn money.

And maybe that’s the way they look at the world. Money has its limits, but the opportunity to improve the world around us is infinite. All it takes is a strong desire — okay, maybe a touch of brilliance helps as well.

Maybe on my way to achieving all my dreams and amassing my own fortune, I should stop along the way and see what else I can do that might just benefit my world.

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