Hi, today I would like to share about the interesting topic, namely "what does success look like beyond money", the main reason why I choose that topic because many people pursue money with all their ability without considering other meaningful purpose, The question "What does success look like beyond money?" essentially invites us to redefine the meaning of "success" beyond the numbers in a bank balance. The statement asks: "If money were no longer the benchmark, what would prove that your life is successful?"
From a psychological perspective, this shift in perspective is very healthy because pursuing material wealth excessively often leads to the "hedonic treadmill"—a condition where we keep achieving new targets but our level of happiness remains the same.
Psychological Perspective: More Meaningful Success
Modern psychology offers several frameworks for viewing success from a non-financial standpoint:
1. Self-Determination Theory
According to Ryan & Deci, humans will feel deeply successful and satisfied if they fulfill three basic needs:
- Autonomy: Feeling in control of one’s own life choices.
- Competence: Feeling skilled or proficient at doing challenging things.
- Relatedness: Having quality relationships and feeling loved by others.
2. Eudaimonic Well-being
Psychology distinguishes between Hedonic (seeking immediate pleasure) and Eudaimonic (seeking meaning) well-being. Success beyond money is often seen as:
- Personal Growth: Continuously learning and becoming a better version of oneself.
- Life Purpose: Feeling that what you do contributes to others or the world.
3. The Concept of "Flow"
Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi argues that success occurs when a person frequently experiences Flow—a state where you are so immersed in an activity you love that you lose track of time.
Non-Material Success Indicators (Psychological Checklist)
Here are some aspects considered "success" from the lens of positive psychology:
Dimension Definition of Success Beyond Money
Mental Health -> The ability to stay calm under pressure and maintain stable self-esteem.
Time Affluence -> Having the freedom to dedicate time to hobbies, rest, and family without guilt.
Resilience -> The ability to bounce back after experiencing failure or trauma.
Physical Health -> A fit body and sufficient energy to face each day with enthusiasm.
Integrity Living in alignment with the moral values you believe in, even when no one is watching.
"True success is not about what you accumulate, but about who you become (character) and how you impact others."
In essence, the question invites us to move from "success by standard" (what others/society say) to "success by design" (what makes your soul feel complete)."
Hopefully this article can give you an insight and a help to improve your life, good luck.