Redefining Success: It’s Not Just About Money and Titles

What does success mean to you?

For most of people, the answer has been shaped by what society tells us: climb the corporate ladder, earn six figures, buy the dream house, and flaunt it all on Instagram.

It’s tied to external achievements.

If those achievements don’t align with your core values, they can feel hollow.

But here’s the thing—success isn’t one-size-fits-all.

It’s deeply personal.


One of my clients - a real high achiever, six figure salary, great office, luxury car, expensive holidays, he had it all. Or at least that's what he thought. Deep down he felt unfulfilled. His romantic relationships were short and shallow. His chasing society's definition of success and not his own caught up with him - the pressure of age catching up and not having a family. We had to re-define his definition of success - because this was what was driving him the whole time.

Why Society’s Definition of Success Isn’t Enough

The Problem with “More Is Better”

Society often equates success with “more.”

More money, more recognition, more stuff.

But what happens when you’re constantly chasing “more”?

You might achieve it, but if it doesn’t align with your core values, it can feel empty.

You probably have a few friends or know people who are very successful but unhappy right?

Success That Feels Authentic

True success is personal.

It’s about aligning your goals with your values.

Maybe for you, success means having more time for your family, pursuing a creative passion, or giving back to your community.

The Hidden Costs of a Narrow Definition

When success is defined only by external markers like money or titles, it often comes with hidden costs:

• Burnout: Pushing yourself too hard for achievements that don’t fulfill you.

• Neglected Relationships: Sacrificing time with loved ones for work.

• Loss of Identity: Forgetting what makes you you because you’re too focused on what others expect.

If you’ve ever reached a goal and thought, “Is this it?”—you’re not alone.

That feeling often signals that it’s time to redefine what success means to you.

How to Redefine Success

1. Identify What Truly Matters to You

True success is rooted in your values.

What do you care about most? Is it freedom, creativity, connection, or making an impact?

Think about the different aspects of your life—career, health, relationships, personal growth, and fun.

What does success look like in each of these areas? By breaking it down, you’ll see that success isn’t just one thing—it’s a balance across what matters most to you.

What makes you feel alive and fulfilled?

My high-achieving client after quite a bit of time and some soul-searching, realized he valued freedom and adventure above all else. That clarity allowed him to make decisions that felt aligned with his authentic self. And guess what on a nothing fancy vacation - he met the love of his life - his at the time of writing, fiancee.

2. Set Goals That Align with Your Values

Once you’ve identified what matters, set meaningful goals.

• If you value creativity, make time for a passion project.

• If relationships are important, block off time for family dinners or date nights.

• If health is a priority, schedule regular workouts or meal prep days.

These goals don’t have to be grand. The important thing is that they’re intentional and aligned with your definition of success.

3. Celebrate Small Wins

Success isn’t just about reaching the finish line—it’s about enjoying the journey.

Every small step you take toward your goals deserves recognition.

Tips for Staying Aligned with Your Definition of Success

1. Check In Regularly

Life changes, and so do your priorities.

Make it a habit to revisit your definition of success every few months to ensure it still resonates.

2. Let Go of Comparison

It’s easy to get caught up in what others are achieving.

Remember, their definition of success isn’t yours. Stay focused on your path.

3. Celebrate the Journey

Success isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the progress you make along the way.

Celebrate every step, no matter how small.

Define Your Own Version of Success

Success isn’t about ticking off a checklist society handed you.

It’s about creating a life that feels meaningful, fulfilling, and true to who you are.

When you take the time to define success on your terms, you’ll find that the journey becomes just as rewarding as the destination.

Ready to align your goals with your own definition of success? The 21-Day Transformation Program can guide you every step of the way.