How do we define success in society? Is it by their salary, title, or popularity? Many people would say that it is something of a combination of all three. Everyone’s path to success is different. The path is what you make it, and it is entirely controlled by you. The most important part of the equation is to plan and have a goal. A clear vision of what you want to achieve and realistic steps to achieve those goals is the backbone of any kind of success.

Is your goal to become a doctor, earn a six-figure salary, and become highly renowned in your field? Excellent, that’s a big goal, and one that many might envy. Now, just for a second, take away the salary, the title, the prestige, everything. Just reduce it down to the job. Would you still do it? Would you fight every day to get better, to keep learning more, to become the best damn doctor you could be, despite any obstacles in your way?

Most importantly, do you see yourself being happy? Does your job bring you joy? Does it feel fulfilling? Do you come to work every day, excited about the next big opportunity or challenge?

This is the true meaning of success, finding happiness.

Of course, everyone has to make ends meet, but always see your hardships as stepping stones to a better version of yourself. We’ve all had to work a job we didn’t like, go down the wrong career path, or study the wrong major, in order to figure out what really sticks with us. The important part is to never stop until you are happy. Once you are, work to keep that dream alive. That is the meaning of success.