Redefining the Standard of Success: Why Arrival is a Myth and Attitude is Everything

 In our society, the standard of success is often portrayed as a mountaintop. It's the moment you finally plant your flag after enduring breathless exhaustion. It is a specific point defined by societal norms—a corner office, a seven-figure bank account, or a prestigious title. While achieving these milestones is commendable, I want to ask you a question that might challenge your entire worldview: "Once you stand at that peak, is the happiness eternal?"


Let's be brutally honest. The euphoria of achieving a goal has a surprisingly short shelf life. Imagine you finally get that promotion. How long does the feeling of ruling the world last? Psychology tells us about the "hedonic treadmill"—the tendency of humans to quickly return to a relatively stable level of happiness. I guarantee you, the thrill lasts two weeks, maybe two months at best.

Because we base our standard of success on these fleeting endpoints, we inevitably face a void after the confetti settles. "Is this it?" we wonder. Reaching a goal is not the end; it is merely a knot tied before beginning another struggle.

The True Standard of Success: Filling the Present with Will

So, what should be the true definition? I propose that we redefine success not as a 'destination' but as the 'journey itself'. Success is dissolved in the 'process' you are enacting right this moment.

Ask yourself: Did you wake up this morning at the time you intended, overcoming the urge to hit snooze? Did you lace up your running shoes and sweat, conquering your laziness? Did you turn a page of a book seeking wisdom instead of doom-scrolling on social media?

If you answered yes, you are already successful. Success is the sum of every moment where you become the master of your life, controlling your time and actions according to your own will.

Drift or Drive?

Conversely, my definition of failure is clear. True failure is living a life where your will is castrated, drifting aimlessly wherever the world pushes you.

From the perspective of the standard of success, failing to take initiative and letting yourself "go with the flow" is a dereliction of duty toward your own life. Success is not far away. The moment you choose and act, you are already living a successful life. Success is not an 'arrival'; it is an 'attitude'.

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