For decades, success has been defined by milestones like career growth, financial achievements, and societal status. Whether it’s climbing the corporate ladder, owning luxury items, or leading a seemingly perfect life on social media, these markers have shaped what we believe it means to “make it.” But are they truly the right benchmarks?
This article explores an alternative approach—what if we measured success through happiness alone? Drawing lessons from real-life stories, scientific insights, and practical advice, we’ll help you rethink your approach to life and success.
The Limitations of Traditional Success Measures
Take a moment to reflect on how success is traditionally defined. For many, it revolves around:
- Wealth accumulation
- Prestigious jobs or promotions
- Academic milestones
- External accolades or recognition
While these achievements are undoubtedly impressive, they come with significant limitations. For one, they often demand relentless effort, leaving little room for personal growth, well-being, or relationships. Second, they are external validators. No matter how impressive your paycheck or job title, these don’t always reflect internal contentment or fulfillment.
There’s growing evidence that linking success exclusively to material achievements can lead to burnout, dissatisfaction, and even depression. This raises the question—could happiness provide a more accurate, fulfilling metric for success?
The Happiness Metric
Imagine living in a society where happiness was the sole measure of success. How different would your decisions look? Choosing a lower-paying but deeply fulfilling job, taking that dream sabbatical, or dedicating time to family may suddenly seem like ideal paths.
Happiness as a success metric shifts the focus from “what others perceive about me” to “how I feel within.” It prioritizes:
- Mental and emotional well-being
- Quality relationships
- A sense of purpose or meaning in life
- Balance and simplicity in daily living
This metric puts the focus on the person instead of their achievements, freeing them from the pressure to conform to traditional measures of success.
Real-Life Examples of Prioritizing Happiness Over Conventional Success
The idea of happiness as success isn’t just theoretical; it’s gaining ground in workplaces, education, and even individual lives. Here’s a look at how some people and organizations are redefining success.
Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness Index
Bhutan, a small Himalayan nation, has enacted Gross National Happiness (GNH) as a guiding principle for governance. Instead of focusing on GDP, Bhutan evaluates national progress based on collective well-being, mental health, and environmental sustainability. Citizens report consistently high happiness levels, demonstrating the power of focusing on human contentment over economic gain.
Tony Hsieh, Former CEO of Zappos
The late Tony Hsieh’s leadership at Zappos turned heads not just because of the company’s success, but because of its commitment to employee happiness. From creating supportive company cultures to empowering employees through purpose-rich work, Zappos built its corporate philosophy around happiness—providing a model for others to follow.
Minimalists and Lifestyle Designers
Countless individuals who identify as minimalists are choosing happiness as their success metric. Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, authors of The Minimalists, share their stories of trading excessive materialism for meaningful life experiences. Their focus on happiness has resonated globally, inspiring many to live with less and appreciate life more.
The Science of Happiness
To advocate happiness as a success metric, we need to understand what actually makes people happy. Research suggests that happiness stems from three main components.
1. Positive Relationships
Harvard’s 80-year longitudinal study on adult life concluded that the quality of one’s relationships plays the most significant role in long-term happiness. Strong connections with family, friends, and support systems are non-negotiable.
2. A Sense of Purpose
Having a sense of purpose gives life meaning, making day-to-day routines feel more enjoyable. Whether through work, hobbies, or volunteering, purpose fosters satisfaction and prevents feelings of aimlessness.
3. Gratitude and Mindfulness
Practicing gratitude and staying present in the moment is scientifically proven to enhance happiness. Techniques like journaling things you’re thankful for daily or meditating boost the brain’s dopamine levels and improve moods over time.
Practical Steps to Prioritize Happiness as a Success Metric
If you’re inspired to rethink your approach to success, here are actionable steps to start your happiness-driven life or career.
1. Redefine Your Goals
Ask yourself, “What truly brings me joy?” and align your personal and professional goals with your answer. Keep in mind that your goals don’t need to conform to external expectations.
2. Identify Your Happiness Drivers
Track moments when you feel most content. Is it spending time with loved ones? Traveling? Working on a passion project? Make these moments priorities in your everyday schedule.
3. Declutter Your Life
Remove unnecessary stressors or distractions that don’t contribute to your happiness. A cleaner, more simplified life (both physically and emotionally) allows more time and space for fulfillment.
4. Invest in Relationships
Dedicate time to maintaining and deepening your relationships. A strong support system often leads to increased resilience and a better sense of belonging.
5. Pursue Work-Life Balance
Life is more than what you do from 9 to 5. Pursue a balance that accommodates leisure, self-care, and time to focus on personal growth.
The Impact of Happiness on Health and Relationships
By focusing on happiness, you’re not just redefining success; you’re taking significant steps to improve both your physical and emotional health.
Physical Health Benefits
Research shows that happiness correlates with lower levels of cortisol (the stress hormone), reduced risk of chronic conditions, and enhanced immune function. Happiness can be as much about health as it is about emotions.
Stronger Relationships
Happy individuals are more likely to nurture meaningful relationships. They have higher levels of empathy, better communication skills, and the patience to build supportive connections.
Consider Happiness as Your Next Success Metric
Success is a personal journey, one you have the power to redefine at any point. By prioritizing happiness, you align yourself with a life of meaning, purpose, and well-being.
To every reader embarking on personal growth or career changes—take a step back and consider this question, “What would my life look like if happiness, not status, was my goal?” You may find that by shifting your perspective, you gain a clearer vision of what truly matters.
The next chapter of your life awaits. Choose happiness as your guide and redefine what success means to you.
