The Measure of Success

"You seem to have a knack for finding all these small-small companies."..."Why do you work so hard? Get a life."..."Are you still driving the same car? Hmmm..."..."Still single? How can???"

Why is it that the measure of success invariably means either one or all of the following:
- Securing a job in a large corporation and being able to knock off early
- Driving a better (preferably import branded) car
- Getting hitched at a reasonable age

Have you noticed by now how TANGIBLE these aspects are? That these are the OUTWARD signs of supposed success, to show-off to other people how well we're doing in life? This is our equivalent of peer pressure (with the word "peer" used loosely) in this materialistic world. PEER PRESSURE!!! AT OUR AGE!!!!!!!

What happened to success being measured in intangible yet (more) meaningful ways?

...Like being appreciated by your superior in your company (large OR small, regardless), and being referred to as the right-hand man/woman, the dependable soldier.

...Like being complimented by your clients for jobs well done; tasks we worked on late into the night to scrutinize and perfect every word.

... Like being recognized for projects that set (and raise) the benchmark in the industry.

... Like being able to touch the lives of friends and loved ones because you took to the time and effort to be with them, be it with your own car (even proton gets you places) or public transport (!)

... Like being independent, diving into opportunities, being proactive in making things happen and choosing the life we want to live...

These are the things that last, and mean more to me than showing off to others of so-called success. These are my measurements on whether I am doing well or otherwise.

Will driving a better car, getting a proper 9-5 job, and being married now make me happy? I highly doubt it. If I can't be happy in my present circumstances, it is unlikely that these things will make me so. Because I believe it's not the outward things that matter. It's how comfortable I am in my own skin that gives me confidence.

These are my principles. I shall not apologize.