I think all of society (ourselves included) would benefit if we started defining success differently:
Rather than defining success by the brand of clothing we can afford, may we find it in the number of people we have helped to clothe.
Rather than defining success by the amount of money in our bank account, may we find it in how much we used to help others.
Rather than defining success by the size of our house, may we find it in the amount of love that was shown there.
Rather than defining success by our level of education, may we find it in the degree of our integrity.
Rather than defining success by the number of ‘likes’ on our Instagram post, may we find it in how edifying and encouraging that post was to others.
Rather than defining success by the type of car that we drive, may we find it in those we have picked up in life and set down on a better road.
Rather than defining success by how loud our voice is, may we find it in how often we spoke up for those without one.
Rather than defining success in the quality and quantity of our personal possessions, may we find it in the level of selflessness we have shown to others.
Rather than defining success in the number of people who love us, may we find it in the number of people we have loved.
Accidentally Retired says
Spot on! Being successful has nothing to do with the car you drive, house you live in, job you perform, or clothes you wear. Don’t be fooled by other people’s appearances or resume!
This is something I have come to really understand over the course of the last year after I left my CEO gig. The “success” I was chasing was not bringing me the joy and happiness I thought it would.
Being at home and having more time to do what I want with my wife and kids. That has made me feel more successful and happy than ever.
Mary V says
When we deliberately step back from the noise around us and go within, we can uncover these inclusive, life-giving definitions of success. Thank you for the invaluable reminder of what matters, Joshua!
H. C. Li says
Truth delivered simply. Not a smidge of hectoring nor any tinge of self-righteousness. The message effectively lodged into our collective consciousness and sub-consciousness.
This could only come from a place of true agape love, not from the pulpit but the trenches; abundance not bought but given; no strings attached but a light left on; in well-worn shoes of others miles walked.
The horn of plenty came early. Bushels of thanks!!
Judy says
The wise among us know this to be true—- ??
Robert Falck says
I really like this guy.
Mary Davis says
It is easy to forget what’s REALLY important and get bogged down in life. Thank you for bringing this to me.
Sherri says
Thank you for this important message.
The article reminded me:
Success can also be defined by how SHALL you choose to live? by
Significance to those you love,
Happiness,
Achievement (whatever that may be)
Legacy and
LOVE
Vernessa Riddick says
Simply beautiful. I’m going put this up above my desk at work. Ill be sure to credit you with Josh. I work in a high school and I want every student who comes pass my desk to see it. Hope that’s ok with you Josh.
Kellie says
Excellent list defining success! I have often thought that how we typically define success isn’t what brings true happiness and fulfillment. As I pursue my first calling, I pray these things would fall into place. Sharing this with others…
Kaye P Brooks says
Wow. What an absolutely beautiful and meaningful post. Just imagine if more of us moved away from rhings and loved on people instead. Yes. That would be a much more successful society. I love this and I’m reposting as well. Thank you for the reminder of what success reall3t looks like.