2 of 33

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 2

with an ever increasing Gross National Product. Productivity is where we focus our energy. Yet our families are disintegrating as marriages end in divorce and children are raised in single parent homes. The societies of other countries view Americans as shallow and materialistic, though they still want to come here and get their own piece of the American Dream showing how easy it is for anyone to fall into the trap of equating money and possessions with success and happiness. It is the definition of the "American Dream" that is getting into trouble. When we talk of the Dream, we mean owning a house and a fancy car, having a beautiful wife to take on exotic vacations.

As long as society measures the success of a man by the money he earns, men will focus their energy on earning money. There is nothing wrong with a career that cures diseases or develops new ways to power vehicles, nor is there anything wrong with earning a good living while doing it. The problem is that American society measures success by one single value, rather than the many factors in a man's life that make him successful.

The Picture of the Successful Man

It is the picture of the whole man that should determine success.

A man is deemed a success when he is a success as a husband. His wife is not on anti-depressants. They have a great sex life. His wife feels valued and loved; she in turn makes him feel the same way. She feels beautiful because he tells her so every day. She knows that there is no other woman he would rather be with than her. When a man feels good about himself, he is able to make those around him feel good about themselves as well.

As a father, a man is successful when he is involved with his children. He talks to them and shares his wisdom with them. He teaches them to be helpful and kind to others, both in the family and in the community. He spends time with them, and not just watching TV, but doing homework with them, playing outside, or taking them on family outings. He raises them to excel in all areas of life, not just those that society deems important. He is not competitive with his children, focusing only on high marks in sports or academics, but also teaches them the importance of showing emotions and meaningful conversation.

A successful man is active in his community. He knows the people who live in his neighborhoods. He connects with people he interacts with at the bank, at restaurants, at the golf course. He is active in his church or school, attending meetings and activities, giving of his time and resources.

A man is successful when he is an engaged and knowledgeable person capable of mentoring others and acting as a role model.

Success in a man's career means more than money. His work is something that he enjoys doing and it brings something of value to another. He values the people who work with him and wants them to be successful, too. He connects with those around him rather than striving to maintain emotional distance.

Success in only one area is not true success, nor will it bring happiness. The true meaning of success is to achieve high marks in each area of life.

Learn more about this author, Sandra Douglas.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2

Add your voice

Know something about How to tell if you are successful in life?
We want to hear your view. Write now!