Ya know…it seems that most people equate success with money.
As a matter of fact, it seems that even the illustrious Dr. Napolean Hill in his early years was a bit confused on this topic as well.
Here’s a little story he tells…
“More than 14 years ago I interviewed Mr. Andrew Carnegie for the purpose of writing a story about him. During the interview I asked him to what he attributed his success. With a merry little twinkle in his eyes he said:
…”Young man, before I answer your question will you please define your term ‘success‘?”
“After waiting until he saw that I was somewhat embarrassed by his request he continued:
By success you have reference to my money, have you not?” I assured him that money was the term by which most people measured success, and he then said;
“Oh, well — if you wish to know how I got my money –IF THAT IS WHAT YOU CALL SUCCESS — I will answer your question…”
Isn’t that interesting?
Andrew Carnegie, one of the wealthiest men on the planet in his time, made a distinction between money and success.
Have you ever heard the phrase “Money doesn’t equal happiness“.
While that phrase might be true, it certainly doesn’t lessen the importance of money nor does it disprove the fact that money can lead to peace of mind which can be a great contributor to happiness.
I think the trick is to understand that while money is incredibly important, there are some other things that rank right up there with it (if we want to experience happiness along with our material wealth that is).
…Health, wisdom and joy for your daily labors come to mind.
Here are a few lines from Dr. Napolean Hill that indicate how is awareness grew since that meeting with Andrew Carnegie.
“…that sort of happiness which is founded upon truth and justice and fairness that leads to ultimate happiness.” ~Napolean Hill
“One of the outstanding tragedies of this age of struggle and money-madness is that so few people are engaged in the effort which whey like best.” ~Napolean Hill
So my friend, in our pursuit of success, I believe it’s HUGELY important to define what success really is.
After all, spending months to climb a mountain, only to get to the top and realize we climbed the wrong mountain, would be somewhat disastrous.
Here are some wise words to consider…
“Success is the progressive realization of a worthy, Ideal” ~Earl Nightingale
“Success is the development of the power which with to get whatever one wants in life (within reason) without interfering with the rights of others.” ~Napolean Hill
“Here’s the Definition of success, A few disciplines practiced and repeated over time” ~Jim Rohn
It is my belief that material prosperity can aid us greatly in our journey of happiness but it’s certainly not the complete package.
Money + wisdom + passion for our profession + sense of contribution… these are some things I recommend we consider fusing into our lives to further our state of bliss here on this planet.
Hope you enjoyed the post & please feel free to leave me your comments.
Paul
PS – What role do you believe money plays in happiness?