Erik Kaiser shared some interesting insights into what success is, and what it isn’t. Together with some other interesting points I had not considered around success.
Redefining Success: A Personal Journey in Fatherhood and Life Design
When I (Erik Kaiser) became a dad, my perception of success began to shift significantly. Like many, I admired figures like Steve Jobs for their entrepreneurial prowess and innovative contributions. However, I started to question the broader definition of success, especially in the context of fatherhood and personal development. Was Jobs truly successful, given his well-documented struggles as a father? This led me to re-evaluate what it means to be successful and how it aligns with my personal growth and life design.
Steve Jobs: A Lesson in Contradictions
Steve Jobs is often heralded as a paragon of success in the tech industry. His achievements with Apple revolutionised the way we interact with technology. However, when I delved deeper into his personal life, I found a stark contrast between his professional triumphs and his personal failures. Jobs’ strained relationships with his family and his contentious personality made me ponder the true essence of success.
The Beatles and the Timing of Success
Similarly, the Beatles, despite their unprecedented success, would they have reached the same heights if they debuted in today’s music landscape? While timing plays a significant role in achieving success, it shouldn’t be the sole factor in determining one’s worth. Many of the most successful people I know don’t have vast fortunes or widespread fame. Instead, they have stable, loving families and lead fulfilling lives.
Redefining Success in Personal Development
One of my childhood friends epitomises this redefined success. Both he and his spouse are professionals, their children excel academically, and they live modestly yet contentedly. They don’t boast millions in the bank, or garner attention through social media exploits, but they embody a successful life by my standards. Their story exemplifies the idea that success is not just about financial gain but about cultivating a balanced, fulfilling life.
Success as a Moment in Time
Success is often viewed as a static achievement, but I see it as a dynamic, ongoing process. It’s not merely about accumulating wealth or reaching a pinnacle in one’s career. Instead, it’s about the everyday victories and the overall well-being of one’s family. Can I provide for my family? Are my children healthy and happy? Am I nurturing a stable home environment? These questions form the core of my personal success metrics.
The Ultimate Measure of Success
For me, the ultimate measure of success lies in the health and happiness of my family. It’s about maintaining strong, loving relationships and ensuring that I can provide a stable, nurturing environment. Success is about more than just professional achievements or financial status; it’s about creating a life that supports and enriches those around me.
Life Design and Self-Awareness
This journey has also deepened my self-awareness and influenced my life design. Understanding what truly matters in life has helped me prioritise my goals and align my actions with my values. It’s a continuous process of growth and self-improvement, always striving to be a better father, husband, and individual.
You can watch the full YouTube clip below