For many, affluence and material goods are considered to be the defining factors of success.

For many, affluence and material goods are considered to be the defining factors of success. In my opinion, this is not true as I believe money and other forms of wealth are short-lived, and therefore cannot be seen as suitable parameters for measuring ones success. There are plenty aspects of life such as family values that play a more significant role in determining one’s success. Although money can be an indicator of one’s success, for example, a hard-working businessman who recently got his big break after investing millions of dollars in his start-up, it does mean necessarily mean he is truly successful. He could be in a miserable state of mind, such as being in a loveless and unsuccessful marriage. Besides, money is temporary because it can be here one day and be gone another. So, pulling in the previous example from the businessman, if he relied on the figures in his bank account for his success, life being as capricious as it is, might surprise him as he will lose all sense of purpose once his company suddenly perhaps go under. He may have to reevaluate his perspective and redefine success. Success is completely subjective, and is normally a case-by-case basis. I believe true success lies within oneself, specifically, one’s relationship with their loved ones, be it parents, siblings, or the extended family. In contrary to what social media tells us, not many people are have excellent relationships with their family members, especially with adult children with their estranged elderly parents. Thus, if one is privileged and lucky enough to have established and maintained strong, healthy, and wholesome connections with their loved ones, that indeed is considered a success, as success is a rare gem. In conclusion, while monetary values and prized possessions are appealing and understandably coveted by many, it is not appropriate to use these two factors as a way to measure a person’s success due to their fleeting nature. A strong bond with the people who matter the most in one’s life is ultimately what makes a successful person.