What Does Success Mean to You?

by Boris Groysberg and Robin Abrahams

How do you know if you’re successful? Do you rely heavily on objective metrics such as your job title, the size of your bank account, or the colleges your children are getting into? Or do you focus more on the subjective, such as the satisfaction of solving thorny problems at work, the joy of collaborating with clever colleagues, or how happy you are at home?

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What is success definition essay sample.

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Lesley J. Vos

The given prompt: What defines achievement and prosperity in different cultures and individuals?

What is success? A quick look in a dictionary might define it as the attainment of wealth, favor, or eminence. Yet, to different individuals and cultures worldwide, success carries varied meanings, often transcending the typical markers of bank balances, accolades, or societal recognition. Let’s delve into how different cultures and individuals perceive achievement and prosperity.

In many Western societies, success is often tied to professional achievement and material acquisition. A top-notch job, a comfortable house, two cars in the driveway, and perhaps a yearly vacation to an exotic location often signify a successful life. These markers, rooted in capitalism and consumerism, are benchmarks many strive to achieve.

However, travel across the globe to Bhutan, and you’ll find a vastly different metric for success: Gross National Happiness (GNH). Instead of gauging success by economic growth alone, GNH considers factors such as mental well-being, health, and cultural preservation. Here, success isn’t just about individual prosperity but the holistic happiness and well-being of the entire population.

In many African cultures, the idea of Ubuntu emphasizes the interconnectedness of all individuals in a community. Roughly translating to “I am because we are,” success within this framework isn’t just about personal achievements but also how one contributes to and uplifts their community. Here, a successful individual is one who supports and is supported by their community, highlighting collective over individual prosperity.

Even within cultures, personal experiences and backgrounds can shape one’s idea of success. For someone who has grown up in a challenging environment, success might mean achieving stability and safety. For another, it could be about pursuing passions, even if it means not having a conventional nine-to-five job or a linear career path.

Age can also influence how we perceive success. Young adults often link success to recognition, achieving certain milestones by specific ages, or accumulating materialistic assets. As the same individuals age, their perception often shifts, with many placing higher value on health, relationships, contentment, or the legacy they leave behind.

The diverse definitions of success underscore an essential point: success is subjective. While society often promotes specific success markers, it’s vital for individuals to introspect and define what success genuinely means for them. It’s equally crucial to recognize and respect diverse success definitions in others.

In the age of social media, where lives are often showcased as highlight reels, it’s easy to fall into the comparison trap. But, as the age-old saying goes, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” Understanding that success is multifaceted and deeply personal can liberate one from societal pressures and pave the way for a fulfilling life based on one’s values and aspirations.

In conclusion, success, rather than being a one-size-fits-all concept, is a mosaic of beliefs, values, cultural influences, and personal experiences. Whether it’s the Western pursuit of material achievements, Bhutan’s national happiness, or the African emphasis on community, success takes many forms. Recognizing its fluidity enables individuals to carve their paths and find genuine fulfillment. After all, real success might just be about chasing purpose, not just achievements.

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Definition Essay: Success

The American Dream is a large house, a speedy car, and financial freedom. For some, it includes a boat, a RV, and a cottage by the lake. However, another definition of success doesn’t list any of these. Success does not have anything to do with material goods but is rather tied to broader concepts.

One measure of success is how happy a person is. For some people, they might feel their happiest when they have luxurious items. However, this is not universally true and is consequently not a true measure of success. Happiness for most people is a happy and loving family. If this is someone’s definition of success, then their family is what defines their success. For some, this success might mean trying new things and a lifestyle that supports it. Success is tied in with happiness because they are both highly subjective.

Health can also be considered a defining factor in success. People feel unsuccessful if they, or someone they love, are not healthy. For instance, can father feel successful if his child is ill? This is why doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and hospitals are so important. Not only do they allow people to live longer, but they also allow people to feel successful in their life.

Finally, success can mean overcoming hardships. No one likes hard and rough times with tears and pain. Someone who has come through the pain often feels like he or she has accomplished something. An individual that has overcome an obstacle achieves a measure of success. As David Brinkley has stated, a man can be proud if he has laid “a firm foundation with the bricks others have thrown at him.” The most valuable lessons can come from failures. Like Dale Carnegie said, “Discouragement and failure are two of the surest stepping stones to success.” And who could understand the meaning of success if they did not experience disappointment? Light would not exist without darkness and success would not be truly achieved without failure. But we all hope that this failure is only temporary.

People want to achieve success and make plans to reach it. However, with a narrow interpretation of success, many people have no chance of finding it. They will continue to find themselves going the wrong way, missing out on opportunities, and happy moments along the way.

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Introduction

Defining success.

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Action is the foundational key to all success. —Pablo Picasso, artist

Learning Objectives

By the end of this section, you will be able to:

  • Identify specific strategies to achieve college success
  • Explain how grades play a role in shaping success
  • Describe the value of success, particularly in the first year of college
  • Develop a personal definition of success, in college and other areas of life

Personal Responsibility for Success

A college education is aligned with greater success in many areas of life. While enrolled in college, most students are closely focused on making it through the next class or passing the next test. It can be easy to lose sight of the overall role that education plays in life. But sometimes it helps to recall what a truly great step forward you are taking!

It’s also important to recognize, though, that some students do not succeed in college and drop out within the first year. Sometimes this is due to financial problems or a personal or family crisis. But most of the time students drop out because they’re having trouble passing their courses.

In this section, we examine the elements of college success. Are there patterns of success you strive for but aren’t yet reaching? Where might you shore up your support? What strategies can you use to achieve success in your college endeavors?

Defining Success in College

How do you define college success? The definition really depends on you. You might think that “success” is earning an associate’s degree or attending classes in a four-year college. Maybe success is a bachelor’s or master’s degree or a PhD. Maybe success means receiving a certificate of completion or finishing skill-based training.

You might be thinking of other measures of college success, too—like grades. For instance, you might be unhappy with anything less than an A in a course, although maybe this depends on the difficulty of the subject. As long as you pass with a C, you might be perfectly content. But no matter how you define success personally, you probably wouldn’t think it means earning a D or lower grade in a class.

So, if most students believe that passing a class is the minimum requirement for “success,” and if most students want to be successful in their courses, why aren’t more college students consistently successful in the classroom?

Perhaps some common misconceptions are at play. For example, we often hear students say, “I just can’t do it!” or “I’m not good at math,” or “I guess college isn’t for me . . . ,” or “I’m not smart enough.” But these explanations for success or failure aren’t necessarily accurate. Considerable research into college success reveals that having difficulty in or failing in college courses usually has nothing to do with intellect. More often success depends on how fully a student embraces and masters the following seven strategies:

  • Learn how to take effective notes in class.
  • Review the text and your reading notes prior to class.
  • Participate in class discussion and maybe even join a study group.
  • Go to office hours and ask your instructor questions.
  • Give yourself enough time to research, write, and edit your essays in manageable stages.
  • Take advantage of online or on-campus academic support resources.
  • Spend sufficient time studying.

So if you feel you are not smart enough for college, ask yourself if you can implement some of these skills. Can you make more time for learning? One approach is to create a regular study schedule and make sure you allot ample time. Most college success experts agree that students should study two hours outside of class for every hour in class. Only break away from your committed schedule if an extreme situation prevents you from sticking to it.

Another strategy to consider implementing is group study. For example, rather than relying just on your own knowledge, notes, and skills, try studying with other students in your difficult classes. Studying in a group gives every group member a chance to ask questions and talk about concepts.

You can also add a tutor to your study group. You will really be able to notice a positive difference. Tutoring is generally free in college, and the strategies and knowledge you gain will be invaluable. Usually tutors have taken the class you are currently enrolled in, and they are trained to get the best out of you.

Overall, students struggle in college not because of natural intellect or smarts, but because of time management, organization, and lack of quality study time. The good news is that there are ways to combat this, specifically by doing things like creating a regular study schedule, studying in groups, and taking advantage of your school’s academic resources, like a tutoring center, instructor office hours, and any available online help.

How Grades Play a Role in Shaping Success

In a recent online discussion at a student-support Web site, a college freshman posted the following concern about how serious he should be about getting good grades:

As a first semester freshman, I really have taken my education seriously. I’ve studied and done my homework nightly and have read all of the assignments. So far, I have all A’s in my classes, including calculus and programming. Now, with a month left to go in the semester, I feel myself slipping a bit on my studies. I blow off readings and homework more to go out at night during the week and I’ve even skipped a few classes to attend major sporting events. I also travel most weekends with a sports team that I joined. Still, I’ve gotten A’s on the exams even with these less extensive study habits, although not as high as before. So, my question really is this. Should I just be content with low A’s and B’s and enjoy myself during college, or should I strive to achieve all A’s?

How would you answer this student’s question, given what what you know and sense about college life? Grades do matter to your success, right? Or . . . do they? The answer depends on who you ask and what your college and career goals are.

To help you answer, take this quick self-assessment about your college goals and beyond. Put a checkmark in the Yes or No column next to items in the “I Want to Be Able to . . .” column.

I Want to Be Able to . . . YES NO
Change my major during my college years
Have good relationships with my professors
Be eligible for financial aid
Be eligible for scholarships
Get awards
Be a resident assistant (RA) in my dorm
Get reductions on my car insurance
Prove to my employer that I can work hard
Keep my parents happy
Get a free master’s degree

You may be surprised to learn that each reason on this list directly relates to your grades—even changing your major. For example, colleges typically have a minimum GPA requirement to switch majors. Consider these additional factors:

  • Undergraduate grades have been shown to have a positive impact on getting full-time employment in your career in a position appropriate to your degree.
  • Grades also have been shown to have a positive net impact on your occupational status and earnings.
  • Getting good grades, particularly in the first year of college, is important to your academic success throughout your college years.
  • Grades are probably the best predictors of your persistence, your ability to graduate, and your prospects for enrolling in graduate school.

You stand to gain immeasurably when you get good grades.

Your Grade-Point Average (GPA)

Grades may not be the be-all and end-all in college life. But to the degree that you believe they can help you achieve your greatest goals, you will pay close attention to them and to your GPA.

Your GPA is a calculated average of the letter grades you earn correlated on a 0 to 4.0 or 5.0 scale. Each semester you receive a GPA based on the grades you earned in all of your classes during that semester. You also maintain a cumulative GPA—an ongoing average of all your semester grades beginning with freshman year.

Many institutions provide students with an online GPA calculator . Use the calculator to keep track of where you stand. Your college may also publish data on the average GPA of your fellow students. Sometimes it’s nice to know where you stand relative to your peers.

Words of Wisdom

It is important to know that college success is a responsibility shared with your institution. Above all, your college must provide you with stimulating classroom experiences that encourage you to devote more time and effort to your learning. Additional institutional factors in your success include the following:

  • High standards and expectations for your performance
  • Assessment and timely feedback
  • Peer support
  • Encouragement and support for you to explore human differences
  • Emphasis on your first college year
  • Respect for diverse ways of knowing
  • Integrating prior learning and experience
  • Academic support programs tailored to your needs
  • Ongoing application of learned skills
  • Active learning
  • Out-of-class contact with faculty [1]

Ideally, you and your college collaborate to create success in every way possible. The cooperative nature of college life is echoed in the following practical advice from a college graduate, recounted in Foundations of Academic Success: Words of Wisdom :

Professors do care about how you are doing in their class; they genuinely want you to succeed, but they will give you the grade you earn. There are people and resources on campus for you to utilize so you can earn the grade you want. Your professors are one of those resources, and are perhaps the most important. Go see them during office hours, ask them questions about the material and get extra help if you need it . . . Another resource to utilize can be found in the campus learning center . . . The first time I took a paper there, I recall standing outside the door for about ten minutes thinking of an excuse not to go in. Thankfully I saw a classmate walk in and I followed suit . . . Thanks to that first visit, I received an A- on the paper!

Ensuring Success in Your First Year

Why is the first year of college so important? So much happens that year! Shouldn’t there be a grace period for the newest students to get acclimated to college before the pressure sets in?

The fact is that the first year of college is the most crucial time in your college life. So much is happening, but it serves to establish your trajectory to success. Consider the following typical first-year experiences, all of which strategically support students during this critical make-or-break period.

Orientation

Most first-year students attend an orientation program, which typically leads to the following results:

  • Students participate in more educationally enriching activities
  • Students perceive the campus environment to be more supportive
  • Students have greater developmental gains during their first year of college
  • Students are more satisfied with their overall college experience

First-Year Seminars

First-year seminars may be of the “orientation to college” variety; others may be based on your curriculum. Students who participate in these seminars tend to

  • Be more challenged academically
  • Be more active and collaborative in learning activities
  • Interact more frequently with faculty
  • Think of the campus environment as being more supportive
  • Gain more from their first year of college
  • Make greater use of campus services

The quality of academic advising is the single most powerful predictor of your satisfaction with the campus environment. First-year students who rate their advising as good or excellent

  • Are more likely to interact with faculty in various ways
  • Perceive the institution’s environment to be more supportive
  • Are more satisfied with their overall college experience
  • Gain more from college in most areas

Early Warning Systems

Early warning systems are especially important for students who start college with risk factors or who may be struggling academically. Midterm progress reports, course tests and other assessments, and early alert systems are most effective at helping students cope with difficulties in the first year.

Learning Communities

Learning communities are programs that enroll groups of students in a common set of courses. The effects of learning communities are greatest for first-year students. Students report gains in personal and social development, competence, and satisfaction with the undergraduate college experience.

Student Success Initiatives

Student success courses typically address issues like how to use campus support resources, manage time, study well, develop careers and skills, set goals, take tests, and take notes. The College Success course you are in right now is such an initiative.

Remediation

About one-third of first-year students take developmental courses to bring their academic skills up to a level that will enable them to perform well in college. Developmental courses can make the difference in a student’s decision to stay in college or drop out.

Grades and Your First-Year Success

  • Your freshman year accounts for a significant portion of grades that can be used in getting an internship.
  • Your freshman year can account for a significant portion of grades that matter to starting your career.
  • Top companies can have early recruitment programs that begin identifying prospective students and looking at grades as early as your sophomore year.
  • Many top clubs and major-specific honoraries on campus look at your grades in the screening process.
  • When you get good grades as a freshman, you tend to keep getting good grades as a sophomore, junior, and senior.
  • Instructors tend to give the benefit of the doubt to students who get good grades.

The best advice is to commit to making your freshman year count. Make it the absolute best. The earlier you can establish good habits during this time, the easier your future years will be—not just in college, but in your work environment, at home, and beyond.

Tips for First-Year Students Embarking on Academic Success

The following is a list of tips from a college educator for college students embarking on their journey to academic success:

  • Early is on time, on time is late, and late is unacceptable!
  • Get the book(s) and read the book(s).
  • Take notes in class and when reading for class.
  • Know your professors (email, office location, office hours, etc.) and be familiar with what is in the course syllabus.
  • Put away your phone during class.
  • Emails need a salutation, a body, and a close.
  • Don’t write the way you might text—using abbreviations and clipped sentences.
  • Never academically advise yourself!
  • Apply for scholarships—all of them!
  • Speak it into existence and keep your eyes on the prize.
  • Enjoy the ride! Cheers!

Activity: Develop Your Personal Definition of Success

For this activity, create your own definition of success. Dictionary.com defines success as “the favorable outcome of something attempted.” For many students in college, success means passing a class, earning an A, or learning something new. Beyond college, some people define success in terms of financial wealth; others measure it by the quality of their relationships with family and friends.

Here is an example of a brief, philosophical definition of success:

To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty, to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded. –Ralph Waldo Emerson

Ultimately, before we can know if we are successful, we must first define what success means for ourselves.

  • Develop a 750-word essay defining what success means to you in college and beyond. To help you develop this essay, you might want to consider the following:
  • Find a quote (or make one up) that best summarizes your definition of success (be sure to cite the author and the source, such as the URL).
  • Why does this quote best represent your personal definition success?
  • What people do you consider to be successful and why?
  • What is your definition of success?
  • What will you do to achieve success?
  • What is the biggest change you need to make in order to be successful in college?
  • How will you know you’ve achieved success?

Success and Pride

Almost every successful person begins with two beliefs: the future can be better than the present, and I have the power to make it so. –David Brooks, columnist and political commentator

If the prospect of committing to the path of higher education still feels daunting, you might find inspiration in thinking about the many potential gains you can experience. Talk with friends, family members, and others who have been to college and to people who have succeeded—in whatever ways they define success. Listen for clues about what they feel worked and what didn’t and what they would change. Do you hear threads of topics broached so far in this course?

College success is an attainable goal, so be encouraged that you are on a path of great potential. Below is the success story of a college graduate. Might your story be similar to this one someday?

Something Was Different

I have earned both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree and I have nearly twenty years of teaching experience. Would you ever guess that I contemplated not going to college at all? I originally thought about going to beauty school and becoming a cosmetologist. It was to me, honestly the easy way out since I was sick of all the drama after high school. The thought of college seemed overwhelming. Why did I really need to have a college degree when all I ever wanted was to get married and be a stay-at-home mom? My friends weren’t going to college either, so I often wondered if going would complicate our friendship.

I decided to go anyway, and it did separate us a bit. While I was writing a ten-page paper for my summer class in Genetics and Heredity, my friends were swimming in my pool. They also had the chance to buy new cars and new clothes and to go on vacations. I just went to school, driving my used Nissan Sentra, without much more than gas money and a few extra bucks. Again, why was I doing this? It would have been easier to just do what my friends were doing.

Little by little, semesters went by and I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in Education. I started substitute teaching immediately and within six months I was offered a full-time job. Just like that, I had more money and all kinds of new opportunities and I could now consider a new car or going on vacation just like my friends. At that point, I decided to continue my education and get my master’s degree. Yes, it was a lot of hard work again, and yes, my friends wondered why I wanted to go back again, but I knew then that this was the best choice for me. The challenge wasn’t knowing where I wanted my career to go, but rather overcoming the pull to settle into a lifestyle or career because it was easy, not because it was what I wanted.

By the time I graduated with my master’s degree I realized that something was different. For all the years that I felt behind or unable to keep up with what my friends had, I was suddenly leaps and bounds ahead of them career-wise. I now had two degrees, a full-time teaching job, and a plan to keep my career moving forward. I was able to do all of the things that they had done all those years and more. None of them had careers, just jobs. None of them had long-term plans. None of them were as satisfied with their choices any longer and a few of them even mentioned that they were jealous of my opportunity to attend college.

Don’t be fooled. Being a college student is a lot of work and, like me, most students have questioned what they are doing and why they are doing it. However, the rewards certainly outweigh all of the obstacles. I used to hear, “Attending college will make you a well-rounded person” or “It sets you apart from those that do not attend,” yet it never felt true at the time. Eventually though, you will come to a point where you realize those quotes are true and you will be on your way to earning that degree!”

—Jacqueline Tiermini,  Foundations of Academic Success: Words of Wisdom

  • What Matters to Student Success: A Review of the Literature; National Postsecondary Education Cooperative ↵
  • College Success. Authored by : Linda Bruce. Provided by : Lumen Learning. License : CC BY: Attribution
  • Biofuel lab PSU-100. Provided by : Penn State. Located at : https://www.flickr.com/photos/pennstatelive/8677654327/ . License : CC BY-NC-ND: Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives
  • Choices and Personal Responsibilities for Success. Authored by : Ronda Dorsey Neugebauer and Zack Varpness. Provided by : Chadron State College. Located at : https://courses.candelalearning.com/collegesuccess2/chapter/introduction-to-choices-and-personal-responsibility-for-success/ . Project : Kaleidoscope Open Course Initiative. License : CC BY: Attribution
  • Instructional Support: Options and Resources. Provided by : California Community Colleges Online Education Initiative. Located at : https://apps.3cmediasolutions.org/oei/11-Instructional-Support/story.html . License : CC BY: Attribution
  • Foundations of College Success: Words of Wisdom. Authored by : Thomas C. Priester, editor. Provided by : Open SUNY Textbooks. Located at : http://textbooks.opensuny.org/foundations-of-academic-success/ . License : CC BY-NC-SA: Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike
  • How to Start a Movement. Authored by : Derek Sivers. Provided by : TED. Located at : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V74AxCqOTvg . Project : TEDTalks. License : All Rights Reserved . License Terms : Standard YouTube License
  • Why Good Grades Matter. Provided by : Graduate Accumulate. Located at : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8zjQ_7sgGfE . License : All Rights Reserved . License Terms : Standard YouTube License
  • Why Good Grades Matter. Authored by : Graduate Accumulate. Located at : https://youtu.be/8zjQ_7sgGfE . License : All Rights Reserved . License Terms : Standard YouTube License

Success: What Is Its True Meaning? Essay

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Success. It is a word that means many things to different people. To me, the word means attaining things in life that I never thought would be possible for me or others to do. It is not something that can be physically seen but is rather a state of mind. This is because success can only be truly defined by a person in such a way that the word and his concept of the word fit his current status or situation. However, some people tend to define success more on the material definition of the word. For example, if a person is a doctor with a big house, an expensive car, and living what the others view as a luxurious life that they cannot afford to indulge in, then that doctor is a success.

In terms of word etymology, the word success was based upon the original Latin word successes that meant “an advance succession or happy outcome.” But the etymology for success does not end there. In reality, successes evolved from the word succedere. Succedere originally meant “come close after.” Due to the varied origins of the word, the closest historical account my research could show regarding the first use of the word could only date back to its first verbal use to the year 1586.

Although I believe that the word has varied meanings pertaining to the way it is applied, there is actually only one real meaning for the word that is accepted as its proper definition. The Oxford English Dictionary defines the word in three ways. First, as “the accomplishment of an aim or purpose.” The second is ” the attainment of fame, wealth or social status.” Third, as a “person or thing that achieves success.”

From these definitions, we can deduce what the term “success” does not mean. It does not mean simply planning to accomplish something in life but never actually working towards achieving it. It is perhaps far simpler to explain that success is the opposite of failure—a word that means unsuccessful attempts to do things in life. Therefore, success should never be defined as half-hearted attempts to accomplish or achieve an end goal. It is either you achieve your goal and become a success, or you do not and become a failure. There is no middle ground in defining success.

Going back to my definition of the word, I firmly believe that success is a state of mind wherein a person sees the things he has done in his life and finds joy and happiness in its outcomes. Success can only be defined by the person who had to work hard to achieve his plans or defeat the obstacles in his path. It is achieving in life what you thought you could not and constantly pushing yourself self to discover your limitations in life.

A person must work hard to become a success because it is not something that a person is born into. Neither is it an inborn talent that just shows itself. I would like to present myself as a clear example of success. I came to this country with some plans in mind for myself to achieve, and I have worked hard to achieve some of them within the past two years. Do I define myself as a success even though not all my plans have been fulfilled? Yes, I do. I have worked hard to get to where I am today. That, in my opinion, is the true definition of success.

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Essay on Success

List of essays on success in english, short essay on success – essay 1 (100 words), essay on success: definition and how to achieve success – essay 2 (250 words), essay on success: parameters, qualities for achieving success and conclusion – essay 3 (300 words), essay on success: what is real success – essay 4 (500 words), essay on success: success and hard work – essay 5 (500 words), essay on success: education is the road to success – essay 6 (650 words), long essay on success – essay 7 (1000 words), essay on success: intro, success in life and success for students  – essay 8 (2500 words).

The students should be able to distinguish between true success and success of ill deeds. The short essays for students shall enlighten them with the true meaning of success. The essays written in simple language are very informative and shall prove to be beneficial for students of all classes.

Success is much more than riches, power or fame. Success is simply the feeling of satisfaction and happiness one gets from leading a particular way of life or carrying out a particular activity. Success in any field or aspect of life can only be achieved through serious hard work and a little bit of opportunity. One of the most important recipes of success is determination and it might as well be the most important secret of success. To become successful, it is necessary to never give up until the aim of happiness and satisfaction in life is fully met. The happiness and satisfaction can be found in very different things in different people.

‘Success’ is a very powerful word. Many of us run behind it; most of us want to conquer it. So, what is success all about? Does this mean acquiring money or fame? Success means different things to different people.

Definition of Success

The Oxford dictionary defines success as “ The accomplishment of an aim or purpose ”.

This is the definition of success in theory, but in reality it differs according to people’s interests and goals.

It is very important for every individual to define their own concept of success rather than following someone else’s footsteps. We must analyze what makes us happy, what gives us contentment, and what motivates us . No one can list out our needs better than us.

True success means understanding our dreams and working joyfully to make those dreams come true.

How to Achieve Success

Many great people have suggested various ways to achieve success. But the real secret ingredient to nail success is to believe that we are already successful . With this strong affirmative thought, success can be easily achieved if we follow these three success factors:-

  • We should follow our passion because that is where our heart and soul is. When we follow our passion there is no need for us to put any extra effort.
  • The path to success is always challenging. We should build confidence to face any challenging situations.
  • The third and most important success factor is discipline . When we work in a disciplined manner, things will automatically fall in place.

If we stick to these three factors, nothing can stop us from tasting success. Success is a journey which continues even after the goal is achieved.

Success is perhaps the most desired feeling that all of us want to experience in the pursuit of our goals and also in day to day life. Apparently, every individual has his or her own definition of success.

Parameters of Success

None can deny that the world blindly respects and trusts wealthy people. Money is the prime dynamic force that drives this world. The sooner we acknowledge and appreciate this fact the better. Academic success is a prime concern for all in the initial part of life, especially in the school days. For those who continue perusing studies, academic success is the epitome of everything. It is mostly observed that success in personal life becomes a tough task for those who have all the riches. Here is where the common people feel successful to have a happy personal life.

Qualities for Achieving Success

One should not regret their decisions taken in the past and must refrain dwelling in the past. We must give deep thought before taking any decisions and uttering words from the mouth. For making a successful decision one must ask questions to oneself like: What Do I Need To Do? What Will Be The Outcome? Will It Be Worth Doing? One must keep the emotions for success and failures intact and should not showcase it to others. Successful people never wait for applause or acknowledgement of their work as they eventually get it. To become successful one must keep friends close and enemies closer. A successful person never demeans the weak and never underestimates anyone.

To become successful one has to understand what is important in that instant, recognize and work on the weaknesses, take criticism and hold on to the strengths. From a broader perspective Success defines the contentment, peace of mind and sheer happiness that is achieved. One should remember that only perseverance can lead the path to success.

Introduction

Real success is something we should all strive to attain. Real success can simply be said to be achieving a higher position or very high position in our chosen field or area; it can be politics or business or even education. In the world we live in today, we have equated success to riches, prosperity, fortunes, cars, houses and so many mundane things. We believe that once a person has enough money to be able to afford what he or she wants, the person is successful. This is a total and complete misconception that will be discussed here.

Money isn’t a measure of success?

While it is important to note that having money is a part of being successful and you can classify as rich person as being successful, money is not all that success is about and we have a lot of people around us that are seemingly rich but still count themselves as not successful. In fact, sometimes we see wealthy people and conclude that they aren’t successful. If this is true then we can safely conclude that success is deeper that money or other superficial and physical things can we might acquire or own. Money is very important to success in life but it is not a necessity and neither is it the only key to success in life.

What is real success?

Real success is way beyond the physical things we can see, real success is all about the feeling of satisfaction we get when we accomplish a task or do something, it is the happiness we get just by remembering what we have achieved and how we did it, real success has to do with a lot of positive feelings about ourselves and pride in what we have been able to do. As we can see, real success can only be achieved within one’s self and that is why a lot of people who we think are successful still believe they aren’t just because they aren’t happy with what they are doing or they feel they can get so much more out of life. From this, we can see that it is very important to attain true success in life.

How one can attain real success

For one to be successful, the first and most important thing one needs to do is to set goals and objectives. Only through the setting of goals can one really have something to pursue and claim success when we got those things or meet the set goals and target. A very important ingredient in achieving real success is determination. If one is going to get real success, one has to be determined to never give up no matter what the situation might be. Another very important ingredient is hard work as we can’t expect to be successful if we don’t work hard and do all it takes to meet all of our set goals. It is important that we get all the skills that are required for us to be successful in our chosen field.

The yardstick of success varies from people to people. The success story of an individual begins from the moment of his/her birth. A human child begins the winning streak by challenging every obstacle from the moment of conception to delivery. So no human is ever a failure, and hence confidently we can say that the very existence of every human in this word bear an element of success.

At the primary level, success lies within the parameters of cracking competitive exams and identifying one’s aptitude as to which profession the individual can flourish. On broader terms, a successful life is indeed a happy life reflecting upon how far one has reached. Success is not just related to material success.

How to become successful in life?

Nobody has ever become successful within a split of a moment. It is not an arduous task either. Strong determination coupled with hard work is the key to success. The first step to any attempt is to set the goal. There can be short-term goals, and long-term goals and both play a significant role on your road to success. Once the target set, then you have to do strategic planning. It is advisable to set a time frame as well. It will enable you to evaluate yourself on a regular basis. Fixing a time frame can also check into our procrastinating nature.

The next most important factor to become successful in life is hard work. It is the key to success. The adage rightly says that ‘no pain, no gain.’ You need to keep in mind that nobody else is going to do what we ought to do. If we put little effort and saw the seeds of hard work and perseverance, then we are sure to reap success and bounty. If you have strong willpower and the fire to ignite your dreams, then nothing can pull you back.

Stay focused on your objectives rather than hoping:

You can inspire yourself by being a self-motivator and critic. It opens room for self-improvement and appreciation. As it is said that ‘well begun is half done,’ do not hesitate to sparkle a start. Once we get a push, the rest will fall right in place. Even if we stumble down a couple of times, do not let go of our dreams. Failures are part and parcel of any successful entity. Mistakes are quite common and what needs to do is that we acknowledge them, and bear them in our mind. It ensures that we learn from the mistakes and in turn do not repeat them.

Nobody has ever been successful overnight. Patience is yet another golden rule. Just convince your mind that you are strong enough to be successful, though not today, at least some day. Never be disappointed if you lose. Trust in yourself and believe that you will reach there and you deserve to reach there. Your strength and weakness define the person you are, and the realization of it is rather important. Selfless dedication and hard work will definitely get you there.

Once you achieve your goals, you can be a strong inspiration to others. There is a warrior in you and never shut it down. You are capable of climbing higher and boom into a fantastic personality. Whatsoever, live a humble life, spread positivity and bear the torch to others’ road to success.

Saying education is the road to success is just another way of saying education is very important for all of us in life, without education there would not be a lot of progression in both our individual and collective lives as human. It is very important that we get education in order to get success in life. Most times, people generally limit education to the four walls of a classroom or a school.

Education has roots in every area of our existence; education can be said to begin from the home, parents and family members educate and train the children on good characters that they should imbibe and teach them to remove some habits and characters. All of these good characters imbibed by the child through education at home can help the child become very successful in future.

We all know that without good characters and morals, it is extremely hard to become successful or make it in life as people would not want to be associated with such person. We are also educated on good communication and interpersonal skills that are very necessary for us to make it and become successful in life.

Importance of education to success

We need to know the true value and worth of education. Education helps to facilitate our skill, knowledge and learning; it gives us a different view of the world and refines our personality, helping us to build very positive attitudes. Education is a totally essential tool in ensuring a bright future.

Education can serve as a tool in achieving anything and everything good about life. When we get a high level and degree of education, we earn respect and recognition from our family and the society at large.

Education can go a very long way in changing our thoughts and level of reasoning; it broadens our worldview and provides us with the opportunity to get knowledge and technical skills that are highly needed in life. We can improve our knowledge level and skill by watching educational documentaries and programmes on the TV, reading the news and keeping up to date with all of the happenings all over the world, reading a lot of books that can educate us. Education can go a long way to make us into more rational and civilised people. Education guarantees our place among people in the society and can help us achieve all of our dreams and aspirations in life.

Education and success

Success is the goal of all of us and it is our mission. Life can sometimes be full of different opportunities and challenges. Success can only be attained if we have all of the required and needed tools.

The most important tool for success is education because without education, we wouldn’t be able to have a wide view of the world and be able to innovate and develop. A lot of youths and children today cite the examples of the successful people that didn’t graduate from school and still went ahead to be successful in life. Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook famously did not graduate from Harvard university but still went ahead to become very successful. The truth is even though Mark didn’t graduate, he was well educated and wouldn’t have been able to start Facebook if he had no knowledge of coding and wasn’t enrolled in Harvard at all. From him, we can learn that education isn’t limited and can basically be any way of widening our knowledge and improving ourselves. We should never confuse education with getting a diploma or a degree. Only education in or out of school can make us be successful in life and give us the true career we want.

Without education, life would be totally meaningless without education. The only path to true success in life is education, every one that has been, is and would be successful in life needs education to do that.

The modern world has a way of doing things, that is, modern man has his own particular view on how things should look. That view is completely different from the perspectives upheld by those who came before us, so to say. Like the ancient Greeks were obsessed with performing heroic deeds, or medieval European Christians with martyrdom and upholding saintly principles, we can argue that modern man has an obsession with success. Or more precisely, one aspect of that new worldview is to compare people between each other through the notion of success.

In a way, the beginning of the 21 st century is preoccupied with the concept of success more than ever before, both individual and collective. That fact can is seen in many aspects of our daily lives, people are not just oppressed with celebrities and successful people they want to live that lifestyle or achieve some sort of greatness. Looking at the current state of things one is encouraged to analyze the situation further and to find the reason behind these phenomena, or at least to offer a new perspective on worldwide trend.

What Makes a Person Successful?

There are many ways a person can be successful. Most people will think of celebrities, politicians, artists, entrepreneurs, etc. They will think of someone who is known the world over because of the thing they do, the thing they are good at. That’s all fine, but there are successful people who do not like to be celebrities and there are, most definitely, celebrities who cannot count as successful people.

What then makes a successful person? Is it how they do things? Is it what they get in return? Is it in the number of things they can amass in their life? Most of those things can count as some part of our overall image of such a person. But, how can we define it? What is it actually?

What I like is simple answers, they are usually correct and the most practical at the same time. Even though not all answers can be simple, this one is. When you look up the word success in any dictionary you will find that it is considered an accomplishment of an aim or a purpose.

Surely people were able to accomplish an aim or a pulpous in their lifetimes, even several, before the 21 st century. Why is it that this noun has such relevance for the classification of people in this age?

History of Success

If we take a look at history, as I mentioned before, we can see that every age has a different occupation. When we talk about the ancient Egyptians, we do not talk about single individuals who made this country so great we talk about the collective in general. But also, we do not know the names of the people who actually accomplished the construction of the pyramid we remember the person who ordered it and did nothing to build it.

Sometimes when I think about all the great artists whose names I do not know, that built humanity in the name of kings, it seems as if it was forbidden for individuals to be famous if they were not born into some sort of noble family.

That drastically changed with the return of democracy to Europe and the liberation from the old-world view that separated people into casts, genders, and races. The new perspective born from revolutions gave every man the right to control their destiny and therefore the right to become successful, to achieve one’s dreams and ideals. Celebrating success can be seen as a collective celebration of the boundless human potential to do incredible things. Is it always so shiny? Or is there a dark side to the story?

Can Success Harm us?

We all know that being successful has its price and the people on the top can often be alone, because of the many sacrifices they had to make to get there. There are also countless examples of people who have achieved success professionally but their health and social lives fail because they cannot handle the strain that comes with maintaining that image of perfection that is expected of them.

Then there is also the psychological pressure any person can experience when they become obsessed with succeeding in the things they do. This emotion can cause such discomfort for people that they can freeze in key moments when they should be at the top of their game. Not to mention the depression some people experience when they come in contact with the images of people that exist on social media. There is a lot in being successful that we put under the carpet, or we just consider it as part of the game, something that we should bear. It does not have to be that way.

Sharing Success

People are made to be in a group and therefore everything they do they should do for each other; however, this fact of human existence has also been a breeding ground for nationalism and other group-oriented ideologies that made the 20 th century so dark. The striving to be successful, the best, the most dominant will make people perform incredible and inspiring things but it will also make them give legitimacy to the worst monstrosities. How do we draw the line between the good and bad aspect of wanting individual and collective success?

Maybe we should stop looking at success as part of domination and make it part of what makes us authentic as human beings. What do I mean? If we start celebrating everyday people when they express themselves or make something that is fulfilling for them and makes other people grow we will support others to develop this aspect of their humanity and not concentrate on domination and subordination. We should support the celebration of collective endeavors that strive to enhance the human race as a whole and not adore individual examples as if they were the meaning of life.

The secret to success is not in money and fame, but in reaching that feeling of fulfillment when you know you have accomplished something that truly matters to you and other people around you. Dreaming big and then having it, it’s not impossible.

If you’ve been feeling a little low lately, this essay on success is sure to boost your motivation levels and set the goals right for you! We hear about so many successful people from all the areas. Some of them may be our favorite singers, actors, scientists, writers, social workers, politicians, and what not. Their achievements inspire the hearts of many and urge them to do better.

While we tend to focus on the sensation of the final outcome, the journey toward the goal is what matters the most. Sadly, human nature forces us to look at everything through the eyes of instant gratification. But the stories of success are not created overnight. In real life, any small big achievement demands tons of efforts and sacrifices.

If success is a building, consider each effort to be a brick, that has to be put in day and night tirelessly. Dreaming about achieving a goal in life is a lovely idea. Nonetheless, working on it every day is more than just a fantasy. You have to make it happen.

Do you pray or meditate? What happens at that moment? You sit quietly and focus all your attention and energy into the prayer or in watching those thoughts. Prayer commands sincerity. True worshipping is when the heart is pure and honest.

In the same way, success is a conscientious phenomenon. It asks for dedication and ethical diligence. For a real success, there are no shortcuts and there is no quitting too! Yes, we all get tired and hopeless. That doesn’t mean we have to give in to those feelings and quit. Keep working no matter what!

At times, when you feel that you can’t go on anymore, take a break. Rejuvenate yourself, talk to your loved ones, rest a lot, create a fresh perspective. And come back again with a greater force and zeal. You never know when the efforts will turn into the sweet fruits of success. One thing common in all the great personalities was that they never quit!

Personal Definition of Success

There is no fixed definition of success. You see, success is quite a relative term and its meaning changes from one person to another. However, it is sure to say that being able to feel content with your life and achieve what you dreamed of, is what makes you a successful person!

A prosperous life is not strictly about having all the materialistic comforts around. To some extent, this may be true. But, all in all, it’s only a microscopic way to measure someone’s success.

Let us introduce you to some of the most powerful quotes on success given by the different eminent personalities.

Everybody’s favorite, the great feminist and poetess, Maya Angelou says, “Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it.”

Winston Churchill quotes it as, “Success is stumbling from failure to failure with no loss of enthusiasm.”

Not to mention, America’s former first lady, Michelle Obama who expresses her own views on success. According to her, “Success isn’t about how much money you make. It’s about the difference you make in people’s lives.”

In the words of Albert Einstein, “Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value.”

Anne Sweeney, who remained the president of the Disney Channel from 1996 to 2014. In her words, “Define success on your own terms, achieve it by your own rules, and build a life you’re proud to live.”

It is evident enough how these miraculous and charismatic visionaries have described success in various terms and that there is no particular way to define it. The only authentic parameter should be your own satisfaction and happiness.

What is Success

We have understood that success is an abstract notion. Now, it is time to get to the bottom and explore some basic questions about it. Have you ever tried to inquire into what success means to you? What are the things that would make you convinced that you are a successful person now? Does your heart yearn for fame, money, peace, joy, love, or something else?

These questions are crucial. They make your mind clear and set your priorities more effectively. Always remember that a virtue that appeals to you may not mean the same to another person. Everybody has their own preferences and goals in life.

The bottom line is regardless of what the goal is, we can each be successful in our lives as long as the achievement makes us happy and content. It could be your education, a well-paying job, having a loving family, social security, or freedom to live the way you want to.

Anything, no matter how small or big, that fills us with a sense of purpose and gratifies the heart leads to success. If you are a happy person and love your life, then success is yours! For a long time, our minds have been trained to believe that money is the greatest source of joy. However, it’s not true!

Undoubtedly, wealth is a strong means to create comfort and security for us. But if it was the only thing needed for success, why do the richest people still deal with depression, anxiety, fears, and failures? Have you ever thought about it?

Physical wealth does not guarantee an insusceptibility to dissatisfaction and failure. Thinking otherwise would only create a bottomless void within you. People madly run after money and career. And yet when they are well-established, they still may not feel the joy and peace within. What is the missing piece in their lives?

Success in Life

Life is a rollercoaster, isn’t it! We all have our own strengths and weaknesses. Overcoming your flaws and frailty is a victory in itself. If you are thinking of coming out as a winner in life, don’t confine yourself to monetary values. With money, you may feel “technically” rich and yet have no access to the truest joy.

There are many dimensions to success. But everything depends upon our ability to recognize them. What are these dimensions, by the way! Let us explore a few of them.

You must have heard the famous quote, “Health is Wealth”. We need to understand the hidden value of this quote today more than ever. Ask yourself, if you would be able to enjoy anything in the same way if you were suffering from an acute or chronic illness? No, but such physical ailments are a bitter truth to many. To these people, achieving a partial or full recovery, having a long and respectful life is a success.

For the emotional souls, having their loved ones around, giving them a quality life, and taking care of them is what counts as the real victory. A person who cares about the whole society, for him/ her the true meaning of succeeding would be providing the basic amenities to the underprivileged, fighting for human rights, or creating awareness.

And yes, the biggest of the aims could be as simple and meaningful as leading a peaceful life. It could be about not having regrets and ill feelings toward others. They could also be as big as winning a gold medal in the Olympics, breaking the stereotypes, getting out of a toxic relationship and having a stable life.

The point is, success cannot be put into a singular category. And comparing one’s goal with the other person would be like comparing apple to an orange, or fruits to vegetables. Each person is unique. Their journey of life is different and so are their goals and parameters of success.

Success for Students

The keys to successful academic life are open secrets. As a student, your progress depends on the level of self-discipline, dedication, and hard work. If you are able to pull off these habits in long-term success would never leave you. Right? Nonetheless, the matter is not so simple.

In today’s time, students are looking for “success” more desperately than ever! Considering the cut-throat competitions, it is quite understandable also. The pressure of family’s expectations makes things even more complicated. The students have no option except to excel in their studies, but at what costs?

First of all, academic success is dependent on a limited number of subjects. The true potential of a child or a young one cannot be fairly measured based on such a narrow line. Moreover, somehow we have come to believe that excellent grades are a must for a student’s survival in this world. Fortunately, that’s not completely correct.

The practical life is much more than a few subjects. Most of the things we learn at school and colleges are plain theories. The bookish knowledge hardly proves to be of any help in the real world. What makes you rich is the experiences you gain on a daily basis.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that grades and books shouldn’t be taken seriously at all. You need to understand that these things play a partial role in forming the ladder of success. The better word to focus on would be ‘growth’.

If winning the race and grabbing a seat in some reputed college takes a toll on your mental, physical, and psychological health, then, we are seriously doing something wrong here. After all, these are the same factors leading to the rising number of suicides among the youths.

Not getting good marks doesn’t mean that you are not good enough for anything. It just means that you haven’t explored everything yet. There are many great personalities like Einstein, Leonardo da Vinci, J.K. Rowling, who were a failure on the scales of conventional methods. But they proved everyone wrong.

All you need to remember is that never lose faith in yourself. If you really love what you do and consistently pour all of your energy into that task, then, definitely success is waiting for you! Make a routine of your choice and follow it religiously. Stay punctual. Fix your eyes on the goal and keep working.

Success and Hard Work

You can only work hard when you are fit overall. A good health is not just about having a strong body but also a strong mind and willpower. For all these things, you need energy. So, pay attention to things that you are feeding to your sensory organs. This includes from the proper diet to releasing stress, stay positive, working out, having those around who believe in you.

Don’t just work hard on your curriculum only. Take charge of other aspects too. As much as possible, include healthy foods in the diet. Staying positive induces good hormones in the body and the effect clearly shows in your performance. To strengthen your mental health, meditate every day.

Sitting around greenery, talking to your loved ones, reading positive books, are some of the other ways to replenish your energy levels. Make sure to work out every day, or at least go for a 30-minutes walk. Keep yourself hydrated. Drink plenty of water and other fluids.

Apart from focusing on the positive steps, be careful of the negative factors too. For instance, any negative conversation or toxic people in your life may suck away all your energy and charm. Try your best to avoid these triggers. Not only that, distractions like television, online chats, social media, parties, etc. should not be underestimated.

Keep your body and mind clean like a temple. It will help you work harder and with more effectiveness. There are no shortcuts to success. However, prefer to work smart rather than work hard. Never ever neglect the amount of sleep you get. There is no substitute for proper sleep.

Lack of sleep makes you cranky. Your concentration and memory become poorer. The learning becomes slower. So, a million dollar advice would be to get sufficient sleep, that means up to 8-10 hours. A few hours may be up and down depending on the person’s body requirements.

It is okay if the hard work makes you tired. However, the whole idea of hard work should not suffocate you. They say that if you love what you do, you don’t have to work a day in your life! If the set goals don’t well-align with your heart, explore something that does. Your goals should be set by you and not anyone else.

Success and Failure

Do you fear failure? What is the definition of failure according to you? How important is a failure for success? Let us find some answers to these amazing questions and doubts that we all face within us. To make things easier, here are a few great quotes for you!

“Only those who dare to fail greatly can ever achieve greatly.” – Robert F. Kennedy

“Giving up is the only sure way to fail.” – Gena Showalter

“I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” – Thomas A. Edison

Must have changed your perspective a bit! Well, it won’t be wrong to say that failure is a part of success. It is an inevitable part of that process. Like two sides of a coin. You cannot expect to taste success until you have learned to embrace the failures.

There is an interesting story about it with a strong message. There used to live a guy who owned a grand and luxurious car. That car always stayed inside the house. The man never drove it. One day, one of his friends visited him and asked the reason for not taking the car out on the road.

Do you know what the man replied? He said that he would take the car out when all the traffic lights are green. He was waiting for an impossible thing to happen! Can you believe that? It’s ironic but yes, we all do the same metaphorically.

When we don’t take steps due to the fear of failure, subconsciously, we are waiting for everything to be perfect. So perfect that there would be no tiny scope for failing. That means there would be no red lights at all. How is that even possible!

Leave the fear of failure behind. The only thing you should be scared of is not making efforts. Because that kills even the slightest chance of success. Be humble and embrace failure. Learn from your mistakes. These lessons are valuable. No book would teach you the way your experiences will.

Success is a cumulative and relative term. Without peace and love, money and fame don’t count as success. True success would satiate your soul. It would fill your life with joy. Shrug off the idea of comparing your life with someone else’s. Every person follows a different path and journey. That is why the meaning of success also varies from one individual to another.

No matter how difficult or impossible seems the goal, never quit. Keep working and one day you would succeed. Don’t confine your ambitions to just making money. Listen to your heart and follow it. The voices within us are our guiding lights!

Try to be a good person before becoming a successful person. Only an individual who has earned the love and respect of all has achieved the truest success.

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Success Essay for Students and Children

500+ words essay on success.

Success Essay- In today’s world everyone wants to be successful but what is a success. The perspective of success varies from person to person. For the record, the people before us have a different view on success and the person after us will have a different view on success.

Moreover, people compare different people performance to evaluate their success. But success is not something that you can copy from others. You have to make your own path to achieving success. In modern-day, people are obsessed with success because of the glamour and lifestyle of successful people .

Success Essay

What formulates a person successful?

There are many ways in the world to be successful. But most people think of celebrities, artist, politicians, and businessmen whenever they heard the word success.

Moreover, they think doing what they will make you successful but that not the case. They forget the most basic thing that makes a person successful that is their hard work, dedication, and the desire to achieve their dream. More importantly, they what they like to do not what that others told them to do. Successful people do what they like to do also they do what they feel correct for their business.

If you look in the dictionary for the meaning of the word success then you will find that it means the achievement of one’s goal or aim . So, basically, anyone can achieve success by simply achieving their aim or goal.

What is the harm of success?

We all knew that we can’t achieve something without sacrificing something. Success also demands various things from you. But these sacrifices will not go in vain if you achieve your goal.

Certainly, many people achieve professional success but in doing so they fail in achieving mental, social and physical success. The tension of lacking behind in other things pulls them apart.

Also, there are cases where people became so obsessed with success that the people around them start to feel uncomfortable around them. In some cases, they have gone mad. Apart from that, people also get depressed if they can’t achieve success like others. So, we can say that there is much harm to success.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Success and hard work

It may sound unfit to some peoples but success depends a lot of hard work. Without it, you can’t become successful. Hard work does not mean that you do laborious work or the work that make you sweat. Hard work means having a healthy body, strong mind, willpower and positive attitude towards things. And for all those things you need energy. So, be attentive to your body and soul.

Besides, do not just work on your program, push your limit, take charge of other things, improve your skills and most importantly keep learning. Apart from that, be with positive peoples, develop positive habits, and do exercise not only for the body but also for your mind.

To sum it up, we can say that success is like a seed that needs a balanced proportion of all the elements of life. And no one can achieve success in a day they have to go through and face different conditions in life for being successful. Above all, success is the feeling of fulfillment that you feel when you achieve your goal.

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Bill Kavanagh

What Is Success?

A personal perspective: success involves making an attempt and learning..

Posted January 30, 2022 | Reviewed by Abigail Fagan

When I was in seventh grade, I was given an assignment in school to write a paper about success. My title was “Success is Simply Happiness .” When I told that to my father at the dinner table on the night before the paper was due, he put down his fork, looked directly at me, and said, “All of my buddies in World War II did not die happy. Are you telling me they were not successful?” In my mind, I thought about changing the title to “Just Don’t Die,” but instead I sat in silence with the rest of my siblings, knowing this moment definitely was not happy, and thus my title, nor my paper, were a success.

I think possibly what I learned from that dinner is that success does not equal happiness, nor does happiness mean success.

Ever since then, the question about the definition of success has been in my mind. While I was a reporter for the student paper in college, I wrote an article about “What is Success?” I interviewed several students and most of them had my early childhood definition: Happiness. So I would ask them, “Are you happy when you’re studying?” “Are you happy when negative circumstances happen that eventually bring happiness?” The unanimous answer was, “Hmmm.”

Our mayor at the time in Cincinnati was Jerry Springer. He was also our commencement speaker. I had an interview scheduled with him on the day of Homecoming and I was excited to ask him how he defined success. When we got together, he asked if we could come back and do the interview later because he had an urgent meeting to attend. I am ashamed to say I went back to the fraternity, got drunk and missed our interview. C’mon. It was homecoming! Needless to say, it was not a successful day.

So what is success? That is one of the most beautiful explorations that each individual can make. The dictionary defines it as, “the accomplishment of an aim or purpose.” Thus, each person must recognize his/her own goal and purpose. However, I believe that the journey is the destination. The questions are the journey. Goals change. They might be achieved, discarded, or abruptly interrupted. The blessing is that new goals are always waiting. So is the dictionary wrong in saying that success is an accomplishment?

Success for me is learning, not necessarily achieving, but making an attempt and learning. Success is continuing the journey. It will only be achieved when we die. Perhaps success is no regrets, and will be determined on our death beds.

So ironically, my thought about changing the title of my seventh-grade paper to “Just Don’t Die,” should have been, “Just Wait Till You Die.” Or possibly, the title should have been, “Keep Your Fork.”

Knocking the “F” out of Failure

Success blooms from failures along the journey.

“Learn to fail, or fail to learn.” —Thomas Edison

There is such a huge difference between failing and being a failure. Ironically, failing makes you less of a failure. You can only grow from failing. If you’re not willing to fail, you cannot innovate and make change. If you don’t step through the uncertainty of making an attempt, you will never achieve success.

Failure and success are exactly the same direction.

That is why the journey is the reward, and success is taking the journey, not the end result.

Remember that each step is progress. Each step, no matter how small, gets easier than the last. Soon they will become giant strides. Each time we adapt to change, it allows us to adapt sooner and more productively the next time. Even when mistakes happen along the road, those mistakes come from the courage of taking a step. Every time you take that one small step, you are stepping further away from the fear . Take pride in those steps! As you move past the fear, you begin to appreciate and feel accomplishment and joy. The answer is not in finding your goal, but learning to enjoy the search. Enjoy the search! How can you make it fun?

One of my all-time favorite expressions is:

“Life is not about the door that will open or the door that closed. It is about enjoying the hell in the hallway.”

In taking the next small step, always remember that it might be the wrong step. That’s ok. The important part of any step is the insight that follows. Not the result, but the lesson. In school, they call learning “lessons.” Learning is the lesson. Life is about learning.

Eventually, with work and progress, our fears and our darkness will become what we are most proud of. Our scars are symbols of courage and growth. They represent our passion.

Bill Kavanagh

Bill Kavanagh is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, currently living in Palm Springs, California, specializing in addiction, major illness, LGBTQ, and anyone struggling to find meaning and purpose.

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Extended Definition: Success

Society often defines success as attaining wealth, power, and status. The dictionary defines it as the achievement of something desired, planned, or attempted (Grouden & Jose, 2015). However, I believe that success is much more than just material gain or the attainment of a set goal. Success is the ongoing process of becoming the best version of oneself and making a positive impact on the world.

The path to success is more important than arriving at the finish line. It is the accumulation of seemingly little day-to-day activities that ultimately result in personal development and advancement. It is not just about establishing and accomplishing goals but also about gaining knowledge and developing as a result of the trip itself. It is not enough to just amass a particular amount of money or get a certain amount of notoriety; rather, one must strive to develop into a complete version of themselves, both in their personal and professional life.

The road to success is one that must be travelled slowly and with complete commitment. It is the accumulation of seemingly little day-to-day activities that ultimately result in personal development and advancement. The journey to obtaining success is not only about accumulating a particular amount of income or gaining a certain amount of notoriety; rather, it is about developing oneself to become an ideal version of oneself, both personally and professionally. This not only involves planning and attaining objectives but also gaining knowledge and developing oneself as a result of the journey itself.

For example, an individual who is working towards becoming a successful entrepreneur may set a goal to start and grow their own business. Along the way, they may face obstacles such as lack of funding or difficulty finding the right team members. However, instead of giving up, they learn from these experiences and use them to make adjustments to their business plan and strategies. They also grow as a person by learning how to handle stress, make difficult decisions, and build resilience.

Another example could be an individual who is working towards becoming a successful athlete. They may set a goal to win a specific competition or achieve a certain level of performance. Along the way, they may experience injuries or setbacks in training. But, instead of giving up, they learn from these experiences and use them to make adjustments to their training plan. They also grow as a person by learning how to handle adversity, set priorities and maintain discipline.

In both examples, achieving the set goal is important, but it is not the only measure of success. The journey itself, and the personal growth and self-improvement that come with it, are just as important. It is about becoming the best version of oneself, both personally and professionally. Success is not a destination but a continuous journey of self-discovery and self-improvement.

The first step in achieving success is setting a clear and achievable goal. This goal should align with one’s values and passions and should be something that truly motivates and inspires the individual. The process of achieving this goal should be challenging but also rewarding and fulfilling (Grouden & Jose, 2015). Along the way, one should also be open to learning and growing, as well as making adjustments to the goal as necessary.

The second step in achieving success is taking action. This means putting in the hard work and effort to achieve the goal and being willing to take risks and make sacrifices. It also means being resilient in the face of obstacles and setbacks and not giving up when things get tough. It is about having the drive, determination, and persistence to see things through to the end.

The third step in achieving success is making a positive impact on the world. This means using one’s skills, talents, and resources to help others and make a difference in the world. It is about being a responsible and ethical member of society and using one’s success to make a positive impact on others. This step is not only important for the people and causes one is helping, but it also brings a sense of fulfilment and purpose to one’s own life.

One example of this is the case of Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft. He is known not only for his success in the technology industry but also for his philanthropic work. He and his wife, Melinda Gates, established the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, which aims to improve healthcare and reduce poverty worldwide. Through the foundation, they have donated billions of dollars to various causes and have made a significant positive impact on the lives of many people (Gates, 2019).

In conclusion, success is not just about achieving wealth, power, or fame. It is an ongoing process of personal growth and self-improvement, and it is about making a positive impact on the world. Making a positive impact on the world is an important aspect of achieving success. It means using one’s skills, talents, and resources to help others and make a difference in the world. It is about being a responsible and ethical member of society and using one’s success to make a positive impact on others. It is about setting and achieving goals, taking action, and using one’s skills and resources to help others. Success is a journey, not a destination, and it is something that we can all strive for in our own unique ways.

Gates, B. (2019). Bill Gates: The Best Investment I’ve Ever Made. The Wall Street Journal, 16.

Grouden, M. E., & Jose, P. E. (2015). Do sources of meaning differentially predict search for meaning, presence of meaning, and wellbeing. International journal of wellbeing, 5(1).

PART 2: Questions

  • What is the significance of your essay? Why should readers care about what you have written? (2-3 sentences) Sophia says: Think about why you decided to analyze this particular image, or why you picked the word you chose to define. Your interest in in your subject matter should be clear to readers.

I feel this essay will be of interest to readers since it provides a new, more comprehensive definition of success. This definition of success emphasizes personal growth and having a beneficial effect on the world, rather than merely money gain or the achievement of a predetermined objective. It invites readers to look beyond conventional cultural conceptions of success and to pursue something more meaningful and satisfying. In addition, readers may relate to the provided instances and contemplate how they might apply the essay’s themes to their own life.

  • Which areas of your draft do you think will benefit most from revision? (2-3 sentences) Sophia says: Consider the organization, style, focus, development, and conventions of your draft. Which areas did you struggle to complete?

The examples and explanations used to support my definition of success are the sections of my draft that I feel might benefit most from improvement. I am uncertain as to whether the provided examples are sufficiently clear and successfully show my idea. I also believe that the explanations may be refined and broadened to give more persuasive and specific evidence for my concept. In addition, I should examine the order of my copy and ensure that my thoughts are logically connected and flow together to form a coherent piece of writing.

  • Consider the strengths and weaknesses of your writing. How can you capitalize on your strengths and improve on your weaknesses in future essays? (3-4 sentences) Sophia says: Think about what was easy about writing the draft, and what was more difficult. For example, if you write paragraphs with strong topic sentences, but repeatedly use the same type of sentence to provide supporting details, you can improve your paragraphs by varying sentence structure.

I find it rather simple to compose an essay. I consider my primary ideas and create a paragraph for each of them. I aim to make the introduction engaging and conclude by summarizing my main points. My weakness, I believe, is that I’d like to be done with my first draft, but I’m usually not.

The ability to revise and produce several drafts is what transforms an adequate piece of writing into a solid piece of academic writing. For future essays, I will keep this in mind and keep in mind that what I produce the first time does not have to be flawless, and that via revision and editing, I can polish my work and communicate what I want in the most efficient manner.

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Success Essays

When it comes to writing an essay on success, choosing the right topic is crucial. The topic sets the tone for the entire essay and determines the direction of your writing. A well-chosen topic not only makes your essay more engaging but also allows you to explore different aspects of success and offer valuable insights to your readers.

With the right topic, you can delve into various areas such as personal success, professional success, societal perceptions of success, and the pursuit of happiness. It allows you to critically analyze the concept of success and offers a platform to present your ideas and opinions.

When selecting a topic for your success essay, it's essential to consider your interests, knowledge, and the intended audience. Choose a topic that resonates with you and allows you to explore different dimensions of success. Additionally, consider the relevance of the topic and its potential to engage readers.

It's also important to select a topic that is not only thought-provoking but also offers scope for research and analysis. Look for topics that are current, relevant, and present a unique perspective on success.

Recommended Success Essay Topics

Are you looking for inspiration for your next essay on success? Here's a list of 28 success essay topics to help you get started. Whether you're interested in personal success, business success, or the psychology of success, you're sure to find a topic that interests you.

Personal Success

  • Overcoming adversity: A personal journey to success
  • The role of perseverance in achieving personal success
  • Setting and achieving personal goals: A recipe for success
  • Self-discovery and its impact on personal success
  • The importance of self-confidence in attaining success
  • Lessons learned from failure: The path to personal growth and success

Professional Success

  • Work-life balance: The key to professional success
  • Leadership qualities and their role in achieving professional success
  • Effective communication: A catalyst for professional success
  • Entrepreneurship and the journey to business success
  • Adapting to change: The secret to sustained professional success
  • Building a successful career in the digital age

Societal Perceptions of Success

  • Media portrayal of success: Reality vs. illusion
  • Cultural influences on the definition of success
  • The impact of social media on societal perceptions of success
  • Redefining success: Beyond material wealth and fame
  • Success and happiness: Exploring the correlation
  • Education and its role in shaping societal views on success

The Pursuit of Happiness

  • Defining happiness: The ultimate measure of success
  • The pursuit of happiness in a materialistic world
  • Embracing gratitude: A pathway to happiness and success
  • Self-compassion and its impact on overall well-being and success
  • Mindfulness and its role in achieving happiness and success
  • Community and connection: The foundation of a fulfilling life

These essay topics offer a wide range of options for you to explore and provide ample opportunity to delve into the various aspects of success. Choose a topic that speaks to you and allows you to present your unique insights and perspectives on success.

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Examples of success in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'success.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Latin successus , from succedere — see succeed

1537, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Phrases Containing success

  • culture of success
  • have any / much success
  • meet with little success
  • nothing succeeds like success
  • on the altar of success
  • roaring success
  • secret to someone's success
  • success story
  • without success

Dictionary Entries Near success

Cite this entry.

“Success.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/success. Accessed 16 Sep. 2024.

Kids Definition

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IMAGES

  1. Success Definition Essay

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  2. My View of the Definition of Success

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  3. Personal Definitions of Success Free Essay Example

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  4. Success Definition Essay

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  5. The Definition of Success Essay Example

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  6. How Do You Define Success? Definition Essay Example (300 Words

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COMMENTS

  1. How Do You Define Success?

    Beyond that, the definition of success is personal. Note Merriam-Webster's hedging through twice employing the word "or." By stating that "many" people see it in 1 of 3 ways, it extends ...

  2. What is Success and How to Define It

    Get original essay. In simpler terms, success is the achievement of something that you intend. For some people success means achieving whatever they dream. For many it is the name, fame, ego, power, social acceptance and money. We all are big dreamers-fighting dreamers.

  3. What Does Success Mean To You: [Essay Example], 778 words

    Success is a concept that transcends mere achievements or material wealth; it encompasses personal fulfillment, growth, and happiness. In this essay, we will delve into the multifaceted nature of success, exploring how it can be defined and pursued in various aspects of life. From career milestones to personal relationships, success manifests ...

  4. Definition Essay on Success

    Definition Essay on Success. The definition of success differs from one person to another. Most people work hard throughout their lives to achieve success. That might mean acquiring an education, being able to take care of one's family, achieving all life's ambitions, or making money that would be enough to live happily. ...

  5. The Definition of Success: What's Your Personal Definition?

    Here are some examples that regular people shared with their definitions of success: "Accomplishing the goal of helping myself and others lead a better, happier, healthier life." "Achievement of goals that help others succeed." "Positive outcome after hard effort and useful experience." "Success is about perception.

  6. Success: How Do You Define It?

    The meaning of Success. The etymology of the word success says that it is derived from the Latin word 'successus' which means 'an advance, succession, happy outcome', and it is first recorded in 1586 (*5). The Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary defines the term success as "the achievement of a desired aim, or of fame, wealth or ...

  7. Extended Definition: Success: [Essay Example], 627 words

    Extended Definition: Success. Success is a concept that has been debated and defined in various ways for centuries. Some view success as achieving material wealth or status, while others see it as finding personal fulfillment and happiness. However, success should be viewed as a subjective concept that includes achieving goals, personal ...

  8. Personal Definition of Success

    Success is a single monosyllabic word that carries a different meaning to every person; this is the reason of having no absolute overall definition of it. In Compact Oxford Dictionary (2008), success is to accomplish, something wished, planned for, and attempted to achieve through hard work. The origin of the word success is Latin successus ...

  9. What Does Success Mean to You?

    What Does Success Mean to You? by. Boris Groysberg. and. Robin Abrahams. February 25, 2014. How do you know if you're successful? Do you rely heavily on objective metrics such as your job title ...

  10. What Is Success? Definition Essay Sample

    Understanding that success is multifaceted and deeply personal can liberate one from societal pressures and pave the way for a fulfilling life based on one's values and aspirations. In conclusion, success, rather than being a one-size-fits-all concept, is a mosaic of beliefs, values, cultural influences, and personal experiences.

  11. Definition Essay: Success

    Definition Essay: Success The American Dream is a large house, a speedy car, and financial freedom. For some, it includes a boat, a RV, and a cottage by the lake. However, another definition of success doesn't list any of these. Success does not have anything to do with material goods but is rather tied to broader concepts.

  12. Defining Success

    The definition really depends on you. You might think that "success" is earning an associate's degree or attending classes in a four-year college. Maybe success is a bachelor's or master's degree or a PhD. Maybe success means receiving a certificate of completion or finishing skill-based training.

  13. Success: What Is Its True Meaning?

    The Oxford English Dictionary defines the word in three ways. First, as "the accomplishment of an aim or purpose.". The second is " the attainment of fame, wealth or social status.". Third, as a "person or thing that achieves success.". From these definitions, we can deduce what the term "success" does not mean.

  14. My Definition of Success Essay example

    Bottom line rules for a successful life: Always try new things. Listen twice as much as you talk. Travel as much as you can comfortably afford. Faith and family always come first —. Get Access. Free Essay: "Try not to become a man of success, but rather try to become a man of value.". - Albert Einstein -- My personal definition would not ...

  15. The Definition of Success as a Lifestyle

    Get original essay. Success is how complete one's life feels. Success is having every aspect of life such as health, social connections, etc. that one might see as a necessity for themselves. This sense of completeness defines success far more than having 100 million dollars without anyone to spend it with, without anyone that understands you ...

  16. Definition Of Success: [Essay Example], 559 words GradesFixer

    Extended Definition: Success Essay Success is a concept that has been debated and defined in various ways for centuries. Some view success as achieving material wealth or status, while others see it as finding personal fulfillment and happiness.

  17. Essay on Success: Top 8 Essays on Success

    Essay on Success: Parameters, Qualities for Achieving Success and Conclusion - Essay 3 (300 Words) Success is perhaps the most desired feeling that all of us want to experience in the pursuit of our goals and also in day to day life. Apparently, every individual has his or her own definition of success. Parameters of Success

  18. Success Essay for Students and Children

    500+ Words Essay on Success. Success Essay- In today's world everyone wants to be successful but what is a success. The perspective of success varies from person to person. For the record, the people before us have a different view on success and the person after us will have a different view on success. Moreover, people compare different ...

  19. What Is Success?

    The dictionary defines it as, "the accomplishment of an aim or purpose.". Thus, each person must recognize his/her own goal and purpose. However, I believe that the journey is the destination ...

  20. Extended Definition: Success

    Extended Definition: Success. Society often defines success as attaining wealth, power, and status. The dictionary defines it as the achievement of something desired, planned, or attempted (Grouden & Jose, 2015). However, I believe that success is much more than just material gain or the attainment of a set goal.

  21. Essays on Success( Academic, Life). Definition, Examples of Topics

    Success is a multifaceted concept that varies from person to person, making it a subjective experience influenced by individual goals, values, and cultural backgrounds. At its core, success refers to achieving a desired outcome or reaching a set of predetermined objectives. However, what constitutes a... Success Goals.

  22. Definition Of Success Essay

    Success, defined as attaining personal goals and having in-depth relations with loved ones, is, in reality, a very complicated term. The idea of success holds different meanings for anyone who ponders it, involving money, power, glory, happiness, security, comfort, love, and many other elements.

  23. Success Definition & Meaning

    How to use success in a sentence. degree or measure of succeeding; favorable or desired outcome; also : the attainment of wealth, favor, or eminence; one that succeeds… See the full definition