The True Meaning of Success

During times of economic downturn, the mantra is job survival instead of career success. In fear of financial hardship, we strive hard to keep our jobs and may experience burnouts from working extra hours. However, a job loss is not the end of the world. It may open up opportunities for a job or another career that you really want. Step back and assess your skills, interests and wants. Have a clear vision for your ideal work and support it with a plan. Take time to "smell the roses", relax, meditate, and participate in activities of enjoyment or fun. Identify the true meaning of success, whether it is financial independence, great health, first-class relationships, academic achievements, and career advancements. Why are they important to us? What is the worst outcome if we do not achieve great success? What makes us happy? Can we simplify our lives by letting go of life’s complications, cravings and learning to appreciate what is in front of us at any particular moment? The greatest suffering of life, according to Buddhism, is attachment and comparison to others. Attachment is of many forms: material possessions, praise or approval, status, fame, reputation, pleasures. We work hard to accumulate and protect our possessions or fame but must leave them behind at the time of death. Therefore, why are we spending endless efforts striving for material success? Why don’t we spend time on things that are of importance, enjoyment, and meaning?