Defining Success: What Works in Life and What Doesn't

'Success' is often a subjective term that varies greatly from one individual to another. This article explores the qualities and actions that either promote or detract from a successful life. Whether you're 17 or 70, the insights shared here can help you navigate your path towards a fulfilling life.

What Works in Life

True success lies in a combination of personal qualities and actions that make an individual's journey through life meaningful and fulfilling. Here are some key elements that contribute to a successful life:

Unattachments and Emotional Maturity

Success is not about holding onto every thought, every moment, or every person. It's about understanding when to move on and giving oneself the freedom to grow. Emotional maturity is crucial in achieving this. By letting go of unessential attachments, one can focus on what truly matters in life.

Spending Time Alone and Genuine Interactions

Alone time is essential for self-reflection, personal growth, and understanding oneself. Genuine interactions, on the other hand, foster stronger connections with others, promoting true and meaningful relationships that stand the test of time. Spending time with oneself and with others who bring out the best in you can significantly contribute to a successful life.

Life Hacks and Digital Money

Knowing life hacks can save time and reduce stress, making daily life more manageable. Digital money, while convenient, must be used wisely to avoid the pitfalls of overspending. Both should be embraced for their practical benefits but used with discernment.

Smiles, Apologies, and Surprises

Smiles can be contagious and have a profound impact on both the giver and the receiver. Saying 'sorry' when you've wronged someone, and offering surprising and thoughtful gestures can strengthen relationships and improve one's own well-being.

Meditation, Chai, and Being Childlike

Meditation can provide a sense of inner peace and clarity. Enjoying a cup of chai can be a simple pleasure that enriches life. Maintaining a childlike wonder can keep one grounded and open to new experiences, contributing to a richer and more fulfilling existence.

What Doesn't Work in Life

On the other hand, certain factors and actions can hinder one's journey towards a successful life. Here are some things to avoid:

Motivation, Abomination, and Fake Relations

Motivation can be a double-edged sword. While positive motivation can drive one forward, negative motivation can lead to unhealthy behaviors. Abominations, both in thought and action, poison the soul. Similarly, fake relations are hollow and ultimately harmful. These elements can drain one's energy and hinder personal growth.

Pity and Arrogance

Feeling pity for oneself or others can hinder progress. Arrogance, on the other hand, can isolate and harm relationships. Both can be detrimental to one's success and overall well-being.

Quitting, Giving Up Dreams, Cold Drinks, and What Ifs

Quitting when faced with challenges can prevent one from reaching their full potential. Giving up on dreams can lead to a life of regret. Drinking cold drinks, while enjoyable, can detract from a healthy lifestyle. Procrastination and worrying about 'what ifs' can prevent one from living in the present and reaching their goals.

The Path to Success

Success is not a destination but a journey. The following recipe for success can guide you:

Try: Embrace every opportunity, no matter how small. Fail: Accept that failure is a natural part of learning and growth. Learn: Understand and apply what you've learned from your failures. Repeat: Keep iterating and improving your journey.

Those who give up somewhere in the loop or miss out on these steps will find it harder to succeed. Success is fluid and requires constant re-evaluation of goals and values. Success is truly the ability to make people happy, be helpful with each other, and be happy for oneself. This perspective is not only a reflection of my own thoughts but a path towards a more fulfilling life.

Ultimately, success is about challenging yourself, not just externally but also internally. Success is not about wealth or status but about self-improvement and personal growth. Wealthy individuals can be unsuccessful if their success is not rooted in personal fulfillment.