"Il est impossible d'échapper à l'impression que les gens utilisent couramment de faux critères de mesure."

People often measure success and worth through standards that don't quite hit the mark. Think about it: society tends to look at wealth, status, and appearance, but those don’t necessarily reflect a person's true value.

Take a moment to reflect on why this happens. Historically, we've been conditioned to believe that money and status are the ultimate goals. This might date back to the industrial revolution when wealth equated to power and influence. In modern times, social media has amplified this mindset. It's all about the highlight reel—fancy vacations, the latest gadgets, and glamorous lifestyles. But let's be real, how many of those Instagram snapshots show the behind-the-scenes struggles or the mundane, everyday moments?

Imagine a young professional named Sarah. She lands a high-paying job at a prestigious company right out of college. On the surface, she’s living the dream. But Sarah is miserable. Her job is stressful, she rarely sees her friends, and she feels disconnected from her passions. She’s chasing a standard that society has set, but it’s not making her happy.

Now, if we’re talking practical application, think about redefining your own measures of success. Instead of focusing solely on external achievements, consider the importance of personal growth, relationships, and happiness. For instance, rather than just climbing the corporate ladder, you might set goals around learning new skills, spending quality time with loved ones, or contributing to your community. It’s about what resonates with you on a deeper level.

Here’s some advice: Take a step back and evaluate what truly matters. Ask yourself questions like, "What makes me feel fulfilled?" or "What brings me joy?" Make a list—yeah, an actual list—of the things that matter most to you. It might be spending time with family, pursuing a hobby, or simply having a balanced life. Use that list as your new standard.

Imagine you're catching up with an old friend at a coffee shop. They tell you how they quit their high-paying job to start a small bakery. Crazy, right? But then they light up, talking about how every day feels meaningful and how they’ve never been happier. They might not have the same financial security, but they’ve found something invaluable—contentment.

Sure, it’s not always easy to go against the grain. There’s pressure to conform, to chase after what everyone else seems to value. But think about the long-term. Would you rather look back and see a life filled with genuine, meaningful experiences, or one where you were constantly chasing after an elusive ideal?

Next time you find yourself measuring success by external standards, pause. Reflect on what truly matters to you. It’s your life, after all. You get to set the rules.

In the end, it’s about finding a balance that works for you—one that aligns with your values and brings you true happiness. So, ditch those false standards and create your own.