Different viewpoints exist regarding the standards for achieving a fulfilling life.
The definition of success is subjective and varies from person to person, often influenced by their own lifestyles or the lifestyles they admire. As a result, individuals have different goals and aspirations in their pursuit of success depending on the importance they place on certain ideals. This makes it challenging to establish a universal definition of success. Although it may be tempting to dismiss others' ideas of success, it is crucial to acknowledge that people have different priorities and will allocate resources, time, and effort accordingly in their personal quest for success. While William Raspberry argues that success is tied to achieving the majority's objectives in America, this essay presents my own personal interpretation of what constitutes success.
The main point of the text
...is to highlight that William Raspberry's view of success is superficial and to argue that success should be seen as a holistic pursuit of personal values and goals. Raspberry's aspirations align with the American dream, which consists of socially constructed ideals and goals that most Americans are expected to follow like a script. These ideals include obtaining a college education, finding employment, and owning a car and a house. However, these aspirations primarily revolve around financial stability, which makes Raspberry's interpretation of success shallow.
Indeed, the ability to afford these featured aspirations may be seen as a gauge of success; however, it is merely a narrow measure of success. Some individuals may not perceive obtaining a college education as a significant milestone, while others may not prioritize owning a car and do not perceive it as a crucial asset or an indicator of
failure.
There are individuals who defy societal norms and prioritize other passions over material success, thereby deviating from the American mainstream standards. Such people can be perceived as failures if evaluated solely based on conventional measures of achievement. Some individuals prioritize religious pursuits over material aspirations, while others place importance on volunteer work, charity, and self-sacrifice to improve the lives of others.
There are people who find worth in non-profitable sports and hobbies, as well as those who prioritize being good parents, viewing these accomplishments as the definition of success. However, regardless of the form it takes, success often involves facing setbacks and challenges. Whether striving for achievement in academia, professional paths, or other domains, the path to success is characterized by failures, moments of discouragement, and feelings of hopelessness.
Considering individuals can have diverse aspirations and goals in life, the capacity to overcome setbacks and achieve positive outcomes is a legitimate basis for perceiving them as successful. Thus, success should be understood at an individual level rather than universally. Success encompasses the determination exhibited by individuals as they pursue their passions, dreams, and important aspirations until they experience fulfillment.
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