The Blog

Let’s talk about success and power for a minute. You know, there seems to be a bit of a mixed bag when it comes to how we perceive these concepts. We often hear about the pitfalls of ambition and the dangers of pride, right? But let’s get real, there’s nothing inherently wrong with wanting to succeed, wanting to gain power, or living an appreciation filled life packed with achievements and, hey, a little admiration wouldn’t hurt either.

When we look back at history and philosophy, some big names come to mind, Seneca, Cato, and the big guy himself, Marcus Aurelius. These were individuals who not only achieved greatness but were also deeply respected and influential figures in their time. They had it all: status, knowledge, and public admiration. Yet, interestingly enough, they didn’t seem to let that define them. Sure, they might have enjoyed their accomplishments, but their true essence? It was rooted in something much deeper: humility.

One of my favourite moments in literature comes from Walker Percy’s novel, The Moviegoer, where a character named Walter Wade drops some wisdom, saying, “The main thing, Binx, is to be humble, to make Golden Fleece and be humble about it.” He emphasises that, while external accolades might mean a great deal to society, they don’t have to define how we see ourselves. Humble pie, if you will, is where the true richness of life lies.

Think about it. Wouldn’t it be liberating to pursue success without allowing it to affect our self image? This idea is echoed in Marcus Aurelius’s Meditations. He reflects on how he values the honours he’s chosen to turn down over the ones he’s received. It’s almost like he’s saying, “Hey, my worth isn’t tied to a list of accolades.” For him, the royal purple cloak he wore as an emperor was just that, a piece of clothing, not a reflection of his character or soul. He understood that true worth isn’t measured by external decorations. His worth was intertwined with humility and self awareness.

Let’s dig deeper into this concept. It’s not that striving for success is a bad thing; it’s about how we approach that climb. We can chase promotions, aim for accolades, or dream of that perfect life. But the key? We need to keep a grip on our humility. It’s about balancing ambition with a sense of groundedness. No, we shouldn’t dismiss our goals or desires, but we also shouldn’t let them elevate our egos to heights that make us forget where we came from.

Now, let’s pause for a moment to consider modern society. We live in a world that glorifies success, from social media influencers flaunting their lifestyles to CEOs boasting about their achievements in viral posts. It’s easy to get caught up in this whirlwind, believing that our self worth hinges on how many followers we have or the size of our paycheck. But remember, while ambition can drive us, it’s humility that keeps us anchored.

Imagine taking a step back from that relentless chase. What if, instead of measuring our success by titles or social validation, we focused on our growth, character, and integrity? Harsh? Maybe, but let’s think about the wisdom in it. When we emphasise humility, we allow ourselves to celebrate success without succumbing to arrogance.

Let’s take a closer look at the lives of those Stoic thinkers again. They were actively engaged in the world, addressing the challenges of their time, while still pursuing intellectual and personal development. Their power came not from the titles they held but from their ability to maintain composure and clarity amid chaos. They didn’t shy away from success but held it lightly, understanding that it was not synonymous with personal identity.

So, how do we incorporate this mindset into our daily lives? First, let’s remind ourselves that our efforts matter. Striving for achievement is part of being human, but we must also remind ourselves that it’s all temporary. A promotion or admiration might come one day and disappear the next. By recognising the transient nature of recognition, we relinquish the heavy weight it can place on our shoulders.

Next, let’s cultivate gratitude. When we celebrate our successes, let’s pair that with an acknowledgment of the journey, it’s not just about the destination. It’s about the obstacles, the lessons, and the people we meet along the way. Acknowledging these moments can keep us humble and root our successes in gratitude rather than ego.

Another approach could be mindful reflection. Take time to evaluate what you’re achieving in your life and whether it aligns with your true values. Are your pursuits genuinely fulfilling you? Do they resonate with your core beliefs? This can be a powerful exercise in recognising the difference between empty ambition and meaningful achievement.

Let’s not forget the importance of giving back. When we achieve success, it can often feel isolating if we’re not careful. Sharing our blessings with others, whether through mentorship, generosity, or just encouraging someone else’s journey can infuse our lives with a sense of purpose far greater than any accolade ever could. This act of giving not only fosters community but also nurtures humility as we realise we’re part of something bigger.

Here’s a thought: What if we consciously challenged ourselves to turn down an honour that would inflate our ego? The next time someone praises you or recognises a job well done, consider responding with a humble acknowledgment rather than basking in the glow of pride. It’s not about turning away from success, but rather redirecting our focus toward meaningful engagement.

Navigating the balance between ambition and humility might feel tricky at times, and that’s okay. It’s part of being human. What we need is a mindset that allows us to climb that metaphorical ladder while simultaneously keeping our feet firmly planted on the ground. This leads us to a life that doesn’t just look successful from the outside but genuinely feels fulfilling on the inside.

What really matters at the end of the day is how we perceive ourselves and the impact we have on those around us. In the grand scheme of things, our compassion, kindness, and humility will leave a more profound legacy than any success ever could. Imagine looking back and realising that you lived a life that appreciated success but defined itself by the love and respect you showed others along the way.

In conclusion, let’s not be afraid of success or power. Embrace them, strive for them, but always hold them lightly. Allow your achievements to bring joy but remember that your worth lies beyond those moments. Let humility guide you through life’s journey, keeping you connected to your genuine self, independent of the world’s applause. After all, it’s this connection that enriches our lives and those we touch. So next time you climb that ladder, take a moment to breathe, reflect, and appreciate the view without losing sight of who you really are.