"Thrive is the third metric to measuring success beyond money and power"

Success isn’t just about the cash in your pocket or the power you wield. It’s about thriving. There’s a deeper dimension to living a successful life that goes beyond money and power. Arianna Huffington, a well-known author and businesswoman, brought this idea to light. She pointed out that while we often chase careers and financial stability, true success includes well-being, wisdom, wonder, and giving.

Imagine you’ve hit the jackpot in your career. You’ve got the prestigious title, the big salary, the power to influence decisions. But you’re working 80-hour weeks, missing out on family dinners, constantly stressed, and health is deteriorating. Are you really successful? Huffington argues that without a focus on your well-being, your achievements are hollow. Thriving means you’re happy, healthy, and living a life filled with purpose and joy.

Think about Steve Jobs, the iconic co-founder of Apple. He had wealth and power in spades, but in the end, he reflected on how health and love were the true measures of success. Jobs’ life teaches us that thriving—finding balance, taking care of ourselves and others—is what truly counts.

So, how do you apply this in your own life? Start by prioritizing well-being. This means taking care of your physical health with regular exercise and a balanced diet. Don’t sacrifice sleep—your body and mind need it. Make time for relaxation and activities that bring you joy. It’s also essential to cultivate your wisdom, which involves continuous learning and being open to new ideas. Embrace the wonder around you, whether it’s the beauty of nature or the magic of a starry night. Finally, give back. Helping others not only makes a difference in their lives but enriches your own.

Here’s a practical example: imagine you’re a young professional, gunning for that next promotion. You work late every night, skip meals, forget birthdays, and miss your best friend’s wedding because you’re glued to your work. Eventually, you get the promotion, but you’re burned out. You’ve gained weight, lost touch with friends, and feel disconnected from life. Now, imagine instead you set boundaries. You work hard, but you also make time for gym sessions, dinners with friends, and family events. When you get that promotion, you’re not just a success at work—you’re thriving in life. You’re fit, happy, and surrounded by loved ones. The journey is as fulfilling as the destination.

Think about the impact of these choices. Instead of just grinding for that next milestone, you’re building a life that’s rich and rewarding every step of the way. This approach doesn’t just make you successful; it makes you resilient. When challenges come, you’re not running on empty. You’re a well-rounded individual with a strong support network and a healthy lifestyle.

So, next time you’re pondering success, don’t just think about the money and the title. Think about how you can thrive. Balance your ambitions with self-care, continuous growth, joy, and generosity. That’s the kind of success that’s truly worth striving for.