Beyond the Illusion of Outward Achievements: Embracing Equanimity as the Ultimate Goal

Success is about equanimity—a calm and balanced state of mind, accepting reality as it is with grace. Unlike the fleeting pursuit of happiness, equanimity is a more productive goal because it reflects the full spectrum of the human experience. It's not about constantly feeling good but being okay with how things are, regardless of external circumstances. You can feel content and satisfied with a promotion or if someone else got the job. 

Counting on external metrics like position, status, money, or rank to bring lasting positive emotions is a fool's game. While these achievements can bring temporary joy, they are outside your control, and there's always the fear of losing them. True success lies in focusing on what you can control: living in alignment with your core values.

Barbara Frederickson's Broaden and Build Theory emphasizes that positive emotions broaden our thinking and build lasting personal resources, such as resilience and skills. This isn't just feel-good talk; it's a foundation for higher performance. By cultivating equanimity and living by your values, you not only foster a more balanced life but also engage in behaviors that are more likely to bring external success.

So, prioritize equanimity. Define your core values, and strive to live in alignment with them. By doing so, you set the stage for both internal peace and external success, all while embracing the reality of life as it is.