The First Step to Success Is Understanding Yourself

When people talk about success, the images that often come to mind are flashy: luxury cars, sprawling houses, awards, and recognition. This is the picture painted by movies, magazines, and social media feeds—a life of abundance, attention, and admiration. But is that truly what success means for everyone?
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The truth is, success is deeply personal, and to pursue it in a meaningful way, you must first understand yourself.

Why does this matter? Because without self-understanding, you're likely to chase someone else's dream and end up feeling empty—even if you “make it.” For one person, success might mean leading a peaceful life in the countryside, raising a family and tending a garden. For another, it could mean launching a business that changes the world or traveling to every continent. And for yet another, it could be becoming debt-free and enjoying simple pleasures with the people they love.
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There’s nothing wrong with aspiring to own a nice house or a sleek car—those are valid goals. Financial stability is a legitimate and often necessary pursuit. But the real question is: What else do you want? What gives your life meaning beyond material things?

I once knew a man named Chris who worked tirelessly in corporate finance. On paper, he was wildly successful—making six figures, driving a luxury car, and living in an upscale neighborhood. But something was always missing. He confessed one day, “I climbed the ladder, only to realize it was leaning against the wrong wall.”

After much reflection, Chris left his job to open a small non-profit that helped young people with financial literacy. The joy on his face when he spoke about making a difference was unmistakable. His bank account may have been smaller, but his life had never felt richer. He finally defined success for himself, not by what he gained but by what he gave.

Jesus said in Luke 12:15, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” That’s not a condemnation of wealth—it’s a reminder that our identity and worth are not tied to material things. True success is found in purpose, peace, and obedience to the calling God has placed on our lives.

So ask yourself:

• What excites you?
• What kind of impact do you want to have?
• What makes you feel alive?
• What kind of legacy do you want to leave?

When you can answer these questions with honesty, you’ve begun the journey toward authentic success. It’s not about rejecting material goals—it’s about placing them in the context of something bigger: a life that reflects who you are and what matters most to you.

Because ultimately, success isn’t just about what you have—it’s about who you become.