"ما هو النجاح هو أن تكون قادراً على الذهاب إلى السرير كل ليلة ونفسك في سلام"

Success is often depicted as achieving fame, wealth, or reaching the pinnacle of one's career. But at its core, this quote suggests that true success is about inner peace. If you can end your day with a sense of tranquility and contentment, that's real success. It's not about external factors but an internal state of being.

This idea resonates with many who have chased external markers of success, only to find them empty. The quote likely comes from a place of reflection, where the speaker has realized that inner peace, not material achievement, is the ultimate goal.

Let's think back to the 1960s, shall we? The era was buzzing with the counter-culture movement, and people were questioning traditional values. Many were disillusioned with the 'American Dream' — the idea that success meant big houses, fancy cars, and a high-status job. People started seeking peace and fulfillment in other ways, like through spirituality, communal living, and simpler lifestyles. Their quest wasn’t much different from what the quote emphasizes: a peaceful soul at the end of the day.

Now, imagine Sarah, a high-powered attorney in New York. She's got everything society says should make her happy — a great salary, a penthouse apartment, and a closet full of designer clothes. But every night, she goes to bed with a knot in her stomach. She’s stressed, anxious, and feels there's something missing. Despite her 'success', she’s not at peace.

One day, she decides to take a sabbatical and travel. She spends time in a small village in Italy, where she meets the locals who live modestly but joyfully. They work hard during the day but spend evenings with family, enjoying simple meals and laughter. Sarah begins to realize that these people, by societal standards, aren't 'successful'. Yet, they go to bed with their souls at peace. This insight shifts her perspective.

So, how do we apply this wisdom in our lives? Start by reevaluating what success means to you. Is it that promotion, or is it feeling content with your day-to-day life? Make time for things that genuinely make you happy. Maybe it’s spending time with loved ones, pursuing a hobby, or just taking a moment to breathe and reflect.

Focus on inner fulfillment rather than external accolades. It might mean making tough choices, like saying no to extra work to spend time with your family or choosing a less lucrative job that you’re passionate about. Remember, it’s your life — you get to define what success looks like.

Consider a friend of mine, Tom. He left his corporate job to become a teacher. Many thought he was crazy to give up a high salary. But he wanted to make a difference in kids' lives. Now, Tom goes to bed every night knowing he’s doing something meaningful. He’s happier and more at peace than he ever was in the corporate world.

In essence, success isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal. It's deeply personal. You have to find what makes your soul content and pursue that. After all, when you lay your head down to sleep, it’s not the money, fame, or status that will bring you peace. It’s knowing you’ve lived your day in alignment with your true self.