Yesterday I took my place alongside thousands of other spectators who had gathered to watch the Blue Angels roar through the picturesque San Franciso skyline. The jets flew across the bay, giving us a quick glimpse of their spectacular stunts before they were grounded due to fog conditions. Yet it wasn’t the aborted show that sent me away feeling disappointed; it was a conversation that took place in the crowd that I allowed to get me down.
Four and a half years ago I left a high-paying job because I had come to painfully recognize that I was only in it for the money. I’ve started a new business since then that has great potential, yet it is only now beginning to take off. My life lately has not exactly been a cakewalk financially as I continue to invest in my new venture.
What Does Money Mean?
I am not normally an envious person, so it took me some soul-searching to uncover why the couple behind me in yesterday’s crowd got to me when I heard them talking about the multiple homes they owned. I had let myself fall into the trap of valuing money as the gauge for success. As I listened to them discuss how they were currently looking at buying another home, I began to ask myself if I had been a fool to let go of my big paycheck, as if the amount of money you have is a determination of how wise you are.
True Success in Life
One question that always gets me back on track is asking myself what would make me feel good about my life when I reach its end. It is easy to forget that it is a series of little things that build a lifetime, not one accomplishment that defines us. My Blue Angels experience reminded me to honor how I want to be remembered, and to measure my success accordingly.
Did you stop to wonder why these people found it necessary to even have the discussion while supposedly enjoying themselves at what should have been their leisure time? Some are into the materialistic things primarily for egotistical purposes that are usually light years away from true happiness. Susan, I can tell you have found happiness just by reading some your posts and comments. Don’t let others’ false facade make you doubt anything whatsoever!
Thanks, Paul, for your kind comment. I understand what you are saying about the ego. I obviously have some work to do in managing my own!
Money does not equal success or happiness. This is a common missconception that leads people looking outside of themselves for success.
Well said, Michelle.