Introduction: The Desire for Choice
Everyone struggles in life, but why? Is it to gain wealth, power, or just to fill up the void with something? These values often drive us to achieve success. In my personal journey, I experienced a significant health issue that forced me to reassess my priorities. Surprisingly, I discovered a relative level of peace and happiness, but I still have goals I wish to achieve. Success, in this context, isn't just about reaching the peak, but also about the journey and the choices we have.
Power and Choice
What exactly does success mean if we don't have a choice in life? Imagine a situation where you're in a showroom with two dresses: one costs only 1 unit of money, while the other costs 1000 units. If you don't have the money, you lose your freedom to choose, leading to a feeling of powerlessness. Similarly, even if you have the money, the shop might only let people with certain 'status' buy the expensive dress. Thus, without the necessary resources, one often feels restricted and unable to make significant choices.
Money and Status: The Cornerstones of Success
Many argue that money doesn't matter. However, in the real world, it often plays a crucial role. People living in poverty may have to reside in slums or face homelessness, while the lower middle class might live in crowded colonies where daily struggles are common. On the other hand, individuals with more money tend to live in better locations and enjoy larger, more peaceful houses. They can also hire skilled domestic workers to maintain their home and cook delicious meals.
The reality is, money isn't just about purchasing material goods; it opens doors to better healthcare, leisure activities, and a general improvement in quality of life. Alongside money, status and power are also essential components of success. The more of these one possesses, the better.
The Illusion of True Peace and Happiness
It's a common misconception that true peace and happiness can be achieved through a lack of wealth and status. In stories, it's often depicted that the poor man with nothing has all the peace and happiness. However, in reality, how many parents would want their children to end up in such a situation? True, some might have a simpler, slower-paced life, but the majority of people yearn for wealth and success to offer better opportunities for their loved ones.
Consider the transformation of leaders before and after attaining power. Their faces often glow and they appear younger. Similarly, people with significant wealth can afford better diets and healthcare than others. Material success often translates into better living conditions and overall well-being.
The Most Common Myth: Money and Success Are Irrelevant
Another prevalent lie is that money and success are irrelevant. However, virtually everyone must work to earn a living, making such claims hollow. It's a fallacy perpetuated by people who themselves engage in work or employment to earn a living. No one is suggesting idly playing the flute by a river; success often translates into tangible achievements and progress in life.
Conclusion: The True Value of Success
Success is a multi-faceted pursuit. While power and money are often the driving forces, they are just two aspects of a broader goal. Real peace and happiness are elusive, but they can be achieved through a combination of financial stability, social status, and personal fulfillment. It's essential to recognize that success is not just about reaching a pinnacle, but about leading a life of balance and purpose. In the end, the journey itself can be the most rewarding aspect of the pursuit of success.