The True Success And Happiness: The Definition Of Success

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The definition of success is ambiguous because every individual may interpret the term differently. However, the English Oxford Dictionary aims to define the word as, “The accomplishment of an aim or purpose; the attainment of popularity or profit; a person or thing that achieves desired aims or attains prosperity; or the outcome of an undertaking, specified as achieving or failing to achieve its aims”. This definition brings to mind iconic figures, like Bill Gates and Jim Carrey, which many regard as rich and famous. People may believe that accomplishment and financial stability go hand-in-hand. Conversely, these prominent individuals illustrate that hard work and determination, not increased wealth, can lead to happiness. True success is …show more content…

The mighty and elite are not the only people capable of being successful. Everyone wants to be successful, and anyone can be if they are given a chance (Bond, 1). Success, then, is not about being wealthy or well known; success is about desire and ambition. While achieving dreams often leads to happiness, high-profile bankruptcies illustrate that money can generate more issues. Therefore, being a millionaire or having an abundance of cash does not substantiate the definition of success. However, this does not mean the rich and famous cannot also be successful. This is especially true if the famed individual fought and struggled for their status, all while maintaining a sense of humility. Professional NFL athlete, J.J. Watt, is a perfect example of this sentiment. Watt’s achievements are not because he is a well-known football player or because he has money. His successes are due to his passion and dedication to achieve his desires. When Watt talks about an important game, he humbly expresses, “It was one of the most special experiences of my life” (Connelly, 1). This statement exemplifies that Watt’s career is something that he lives for. Football makes him extremely happy and motivated to work, which is why he is successful. “As you go along,” Watt explains, “You kind of start to realize what it takes”. Watt’s success is not from his wealth and fame, it came …show more content…

There are numerous well-known individuals who were not simply handed ‘success’, their determination is the reason they are known today. Walt Disney had been fired by a newspaper editor due to his “lack of imagination and no good ideas” (Lutz, 1). During Walt Disney’s life, he was one incredibly successful individual. Although Walt failed in the beginning, he conquered his tragedy with his drive and determination in something he desired. Success is about trusting in oneself and never second guessing it. Success is not something anyone can wake up with one day, it as a process which can take days, months or even years. Chris, a student at the University of Michigan, tells his story on overcoming dyslexia. Chris’ work ethic was greater than most students due to his dyslexia, “it really gave me a good work ethic that will probably stick with me for the rest of my life, and I’m thankful for being dyslexic,” Chris explained (Wasco, 1). Chris was successful due to his “motivation, dedication, and hard work” toward his personal goal to overcome his dyslexia (Wasco,

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