The definition of success is “the accomplishment of an aim or purpose.” Society usually measures it by wealth, status, possessions, and career milestones. Basically, the more money you have, the more “successful” you are… right?
We’ve all heard the saying, “money doesn’t buy happiness.” I used to roll my eyes at that. I mean, tell me you wouldn’t be happy on your yacht in the Maldives!
Then I came across this quote:
“Success is getting what you want, happiness is wanting what you get.” – W.P. Kinsella
That made me pause. Success isn’t about how much money we make. It is about whether what we’re chasing will actually make us happy once we have it.
Let’s look at this idea through a camera lens. We’re going to zoom all the way in… then zoom all the way out.
3x Zoom
Zoom in: what makes you happy on a small scale? Rolled ice cream, walking your dog, making a friend laugh, or rereading your favorite book?
For me, happiness can be as simple as wearing a great outfit. It boosts my confidence, helps me make a good impression, and even enhances my performance (if I look good, I feel good). You can’t build something amazing if your foundation isn’t solid. Start with what makes you happy, and everything else falls into place.
1x Zoom
Zoom out: take what makes you happy and use it as fuel for your success path. Don’t stray away from your own path by chasing other people’s goals.
As an example, let’s say your goal is to buy a car. Do you genuinely want this car, or is it the one you think you should want? The flashy one everyone’s posting on social media?
“Money doesn’t buy happiness” only matters if your purchases don’t support your joy. Sure, you can lease the newest luxury car, but would it really make you happy? The smarter choice is something that fits your life – like a car that fits friends for road trips or a reliable gas saver for your commute.
As you now know, I love to be fashionable. There’s a huge problem with fast fashion and that’s why I buy for me and not just because an influencer has it. Your money is your time, and your time is your life. Spend both on what brings you joy, not what just looks impressive to everyone else.
0.5x Zoom
Zooming all the way out helps you see the bigger picture. Many of us still chase society’s definition of success, but it rarely leads to true fulfillment.
Keren Eldad, executive coach and author of Gilded, suggests asking yourself: “How can I serve?” This opens your mind to greater possibilities and connects you to a purpose bigger than yourself. Margie Warrell, PhD, adds: “Research shows that people who connect to a purpose greater than themselves are happier, more content, and more resilient in the face of adversity… They are also far more inspiring leaders.”
Now think about your career and ask yourself: are you truly content? Does it contribute to a bigger picture? I ask myself if I am content all the time! Sometimes I catch myself looking at society’s definition of success but when I zoom out, it shows me that my job allows me to dress the way I want, express my creative side, and provide fun unique experiences for people.
So make sure to choose work or goals that fuel your purpose and happiness. Don’t climb the ladder for a title; climb because it’s where you truly belong.
Adjusting the Focus
When I first entered the business world, I thought success meant having the biggest and best of everything. But after adjusting my focus, I realized my success is being the friend who creates lasting memories; the one who brings laughter, good energy, and, of course, great style. And my happiness comes from seeing my friends smile.
So grab your metaphorical camera and take a few snapshots of your life. Are you capturing what truly matters, or just what looks good through someone else’s lens?
Until next time,
Callie
Like this post? Check out my others learn how to thrive beyond your 9-5.
Nine to Thrive. 
Leave a comment