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I had a conversation with one of my best friends the other day and we were discussing that one of the major factors of my depression is the fact that I don’t consider myself successful. the conversation went sort of like this:
Her: I think you’re very successful. Why don’t you think you’re successful?
Me: I don’t have a good job or the level of education I feel like I should.
Her: You’ve come really far. All by yourself. Without any help. But that aside, I think there’s something seriously wrong with the way society defines success. Why don’t we measure success in how much love we have in our lives? Or how much we’ve helped others? Or happiness? What does it say about us as a people that we measure success in how much money we have? It’s pretty sick if you ask me.
It was very helpful for me to hear that but now I want to ask you guys some questions. How do you define success? Do you consider yourself successful? Why? Do you think we as a society need to have a cultural redefining of this word?
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This is a great topic! I completely agree that measuring success by things like how much money we have, or what kind of car or house we own, is very shallow and sickening.
I define my own success by whether or not I accomplish personal tasks I set for myself, no matter how big or small. If I tell myself I’m going to write a short story within three days and I complete it, that is a success to me. Spending an entire day with high self confidence and not putting myself down is a success to me.
I think the way society defines success is really overrated! I’d much rather have a cozy little place and live comfortably, have a couple good friends and be genuinely happy with my life and who I am than live a flashy life that is defined by material possession and wealth.
I just saw this post now, but I love this topic. Often times we let society and other people define what success and triumph means to us as a person, when in all reality we as individuals are the ones who should define our own personal successes. I have most recently come to learn and accept within my own life that it is definitely not about the amount of material things we possess as humans, or the amount of money we make, etc. I have come to learn that as long as my priorities are met- my bills are paid on time, I have food in my refrigerator, I have clothes on my back, I have adequate, independent shelter, I have a means of reliable transportation, I have supportive friends and family, I have a wonderful job- how am I not successful? Is it because society claims I need a sport’s car and a mansion in order to be successful? Is it because others THINK I am not happy with the things I currently have? Society has no say in what makes me happy or defines my success, and if I choose not to be content with the great things I have now, I will never be blessed with future growth opportunities.