Success and failure are ideas that shape our lives. We often measure success by money, social status, or achievements. But what if the way we define success and failure is the reason we struggle with problems?
Philip Santus once said,
“If you think it’s necessary to change how we see our problems, then, we have to change what we value and/or how we measure failure/success.”
This quote suggests that our problems are not just about what happens to us, but about how we see and measure them. If we keep using the same standards to judge success and failure, we might feel stuck in life. But if we change those standards, we can find new ways to solve our problems and live a more meaningful life.
Why We Need to Change How We Measure Success and Failure
Many people struggle with stress, anxiety, and disappointment because of how they define success. Here are three key reasons why we need to rethink our values and how we measure success:
- Society’s Definition of Success Is Limiting
Society often defines success as wealth, fame, or high social status. But this is a narrow way of looking at life. Not everyone will be rich or famous, yet many people live happy and meaningful lives. If we continue to measure success only by these standards, we might feel like failures even when we are making progress in other areas of life. - Failure Is Not Always a Bad Thing
Many people fear failure because they see it as the opposite of success. But failure is often a stepping stone to growth. If we learn from our mistakes, failure can teach us valuable lessons and lead us to greater achievements. - Personal Growth Matters More Than External Achievements
True success is not just about external rewards like money or recognition. It is about personal growth, happiness, and contribution to others. If we measure success based on how much we improve ourselves and help others, we can live a more fulfilling life.
How to Change Your Perspective on Success and Failure
To see problems differently and solve them more effectively, we must shift our mindset. Here are some ways to do that:
- Define Success on Your Own Terms
Instead of following society’s definition of success, create your own. Ask yourself:- What truly matters to me?
- What kind of life do I want to live?
- How do I define personal success?
When you answer these questions, you will have a clearer vision of what success means to you.
- Focus on Progress, Not Perfection
Many people feel stuck because they aim for perfection. Instead of waiting for everything to be perfect, focus on small improvements every day. Progress, no matter how small, is a sign of success. - Embrace Failure as a Learning Tool
Instead of fearing failure, use it as a lesson. Every time something goes wrong, ask yourself:- What can I learn from this?
- How can I improve next time?
- What strengths did I discover through this experience?
By doing this, you will see failure as a part of growth, not as the end of success.
- Value Internal Happiness Over External Validation
Many people seek approval from others, thinking it will bring happiness. But true happiness comes from within. Instead of trying to impress people, focus on what makes you truly happy and fulfilled.
Final Thoughts
If we continue measuring success and failure the way society teaches us, we might struggle with problems that don’t really matter. But if we change our values and how we measure success, we can see life from a fresh perspective.
Success is not just about money or achievements—it is about growth, learning, and living a meaningful life. When we shift our mindset, we turn problems into opportunities and failure into a stepping stone for success.
So, take a moment today and ask yourself: What does success really mean to me?
