Definition Essay on Success

The False Definition of Success

Society tends to admire the rich and famous. These individuals become potential reflections of one ’s self; one hopes to obtain the status in the future, but understands the complex reality that it is not possible. We wonder if these celebrities and prosperous individuals are confident, joyful, and the epitome of mainstream success. Contrary to a joyful attitude, we wonder if these individuals are constantly stressed, having second thoughts over their life choices, unsure of the meaning that constitutes life. Mainstream marketing and the media are responsible for pushing a certain lifestyle on our society; society has accepted a false (potentially dangerous) definition of success. We have been taught to believe that success comes from owning a luxurious home, having a seemingly infinite amount of money, driving the fastest cars, wearing only the most fashionable clothing, and integrating technology into our lives. By doing so, one is seemingly happy, and successful. However, success has become an overstated and falsely advertised myth; real life success requires respect, appreciation, integrity, and patience. All of these are traits of human nature that are genuinely difficult to obtain and retain; modern media acts relentlessly in controlling our thoughts, altering our independence and deceiving the public into reaching for an unidentifiable state of mind.

The media and mainstream society want us to believe that success and happiness come from the pursuit, and eventual acquisition, of money and fame. This is not true. Money is comparable to a new toy one achieves as a child. As the child removes the toy from the box, he or she is fascinated with the toy. The toy brings a great deal of fun while it is brand new. However, after a few days, or even hours of play, the toy becomes boring and unexciting; the child immediately wants a new toy to obtain the excitement and happiness that have passed. Money is the same way. Money can...