The pursuit of traditional success, marked by a thriving career, a beautiful home, and admiration from others, often leads to a sense of emptiness and unhappiness. Such success, despite its dazzling outward appearance, often feels hollow underneath. A shift in focus from conventional success to personal fulfilment can change one’s definition of happiness.
Throughout one’s early life, the notion of success is linked to hard work and the achievement of set standards. However, this can lead to an unhealthy obsession where work becomes the sole focus, neglecting personal relationships and wellbeing. Over time, this can lead to feelings of dread and disconnection from one’s true self. Despite achieving many milestones, the sense of fulfilment is often elusive, and there always seems to be another, bigger goal on the horizon.
The realisation that chasing accolades and external approval does not lead to lasting fulfilment is a wake-up call. It’s not about despising one’s job or abandoning ambitions, but understanding that these do not necessarily equate to personal fulfilment. Often, it feels like pouring energy into a vacuum, always chasing the next big thing without ever feeling ‘done’.
A moment of introspection can reveal that one’s definitions of success have been overshadowed by others