"成功は非常に個人的であり、自分の人生でどこにいたいかによって相対的です。"

Success is something we all think about, but it's far from a one-size-fits-all concept. Essentially, what it means is that success varies from person to person—it's a deeply personal and subjective experience. Your idea of success could be completely different from mine, and that's perfectly okay.

Let's dive into this with a bit of context. Think back to the post-World War II era. During that period, success was often measured by material wealth and social status. Owning a big house, driving a fancy car, and having a prestigious job were the benchmarks. But times have changed. Today, people are increasingly recognizing that these external markers don't always equate to personal fulfillment. What makes one person feel successful might leave another feeling empty.

Take my friend Sarah, for example. She worked in finance, pulling in a six-figure salary. By traditional standards, she was the epitome of success. But she was miserable. Sarah always dreamt of being a teacher. So, she took a massive pay cut, went back to school, and now teaches third grade. Is she making as much money? Nope. But is she happier and more fulfilled? Absolutely. Her success isn't defined by her bank balance but by the joy she gets from her work and the impact she has on her students.

If you're looking to apply this idea of personal success in your life, start by reflecting on what truly matters to you. Forget societal expectations for a minute. Ask yourself, what makes you feel alive and fulfilled? Is it the job title, the paycheck, the freedom to travel, or maybe the time you spend with family? Once you identify what success looks like for you, set goals that align with those values. Don’t get caught up in someone else’s definition.

Imagine you're at a high school reunion. Everyone's catching up, and there's a lot of talk about promotions, new houses, and vacations. You might feel a twinge of envy. But then you remember that you chose a different path. Maybe you opted for a flexible job that lets you spend more time with your kids. Or perhaps you decided to start a small business that aligns with your passions. Your classmates' successes don't diminish your own. Each person's journey is unique, and so are their definitions of success.

Here's a relatable scenario: Think about a marathon. For some runners, winning the race or finishing in the top ten is the ultimate goal. For others, just crossing the finish line, regardless of time, is the victory. Both runners experience success, but it's shaped by their personal ambitions and circumstances.

To sum it up, don't let societal pressures dictate your vision of success. It's all about where you want to be in your life. Reflect on your values, set your own goals, and remember that your success is uniquely yours. So next time you're feeling unsure about where you stand, take a step back and think about what's genuinely important to you. That’s where you’ll find your true definition of success.