In a world full of ambitious goals, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by society’s expectations. We’re often told that to be successful, we need to become millionaires, travel the world, launch businesses, or write bestseller books. But here’s the truth: everyone’s journey is different. What we want out of life, what we value, and the experiences that shape us are unique. Sometimes, it’s the small changes—little shifts in mindset, behaviour, or routine—that make the biggest impact.
It’s easy to feel like you need to change everything about your life to be truly happy or successful. But constantly aiming to meet the highest societal standards can be exhausting.
For example, you don’t need to play multiple sports, hit the gym five times a week, or run marathons to be physically fit. Fitness isn’t just about six-pack abs or sculpted muscles. You can be physically in shape and well simply by walking, moving your body every day, and finding a routine that works for you.
The same principle applies to financial success. You don’t need to launch a multi-million-dollar company or become a serial entrepreneur to be financially secure. Working for someone else, earning a steady income, and building a comfortable life for yourself and your family can be just as fulfilling. Success looks different for everyone.
There’s a misconception that in order to live a healthy life, you must follow strict rules—wait 90 minutes after waking up to drink coffee, avoid carbs, swear off alcohol and meat, or take 20 different vitamins a day. But health doesn’t have to be rigid. You can enjoy your coffee whenever you like, have a beer with friends, or treat yourself with a pizza or burger while still living a balanced, healthy life. It’s not about extreme restrictions, but about making choices that nourish your body and soul.
The same goes for productivity. Society often glorifies the “hustle culture,” where waking up at 5 a.m., working nonstop, and sleeping only five hours a night are seen as signs of success. But productivity isn’t about how much you can cram into a day—it’s about working smarter, not harder. You can still be productive while getting eight hours of sleep, spending time with family, reading only in the weekends, and even watching TV. Life isn’t meant to be a relentless grind. It’s about balance.
Now, don’t get me wrong—I absolutely believe in human potential. Each of us has the ability to become whoever we want to be. The universe has given us incredible gifts, and we should strive to put our talents and resources to good use. We don’t want to waste what’s been given to us by settling for mediocrity or not working toward better.
This isn’t an excuse to procrastinate or avoid responsibility. I’m not saying you can simply decide to do nothing because you don’t feel like getting out of bed. Life requires effort, discipline, and commitment. You have to show up for your family, your career, and your goals, even on the tough days. This is just common sense.
The point is, there’s no one-size-fits-all recipe for success. We each have emotional, physical, intellectual, and financial needs that are unique to us. Our abilities, commitments, and aspirations vary. So why should we expect the same path to work for everyone? There’s a balance between striving for more and honoring the life we already have. It’s not about meeting every standard society sets—it’s about creating a life that aligns with your values and aspirations.
Happiness isn’t about ticking off a checklist of achievements society holds up as the ideal. It’s about living in a way that reflects who you are, what matters most to you, and what brings you joy. You don’t have to be everything to everyone. You just have to be the best version of yourself—whatever that looks like. Strive for better, but on your terms. Make the small changes that matter to you, and define success in a way that feels true to your unique journey.
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