Why Your Journey is Just as Valid as Theirs.

29 November 2024

By Ekaale Ekuam

In a world saturated with palatial homes, sleek sports cars, and display of wealth, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparison. Social media parades a highlight reel of the elite lifestyle designer vacations, sprawling homes, and high profile-soaked celebrations. But here’s the truth, their success is not better than yours. It’s just different.

We’ve been conditioned to see wealth as the ultimate marker of achievement, but what if success isn’t one-size-fits-all? What if the truest measure of success is how fulfilled you feel, regardless of the zeroes in your bank account or the square footage of your house?

From the moment we start dreaming about the future, society whispers in our ears, Bigger is better. Flashier is success. The moment we internalize this narrative, we unwittingly measure ourselves against others. This creates a dangerous cycle where validation is sought externally, leaving us blind to our own unique accomplishments.

But here’s a critical shift in perspective, that friend who just bought a luxury car isn’t living a better life than you; they’re living their life, and it’s valid because it brings them joy. Their path to happiness isn’t yours and it doesn’t have to be.

What does success look like to you? Is it a loving family, a job that sparks joy, or simply having the time to savor a cup of tea at sunrise? Perhaps it’s the quiet pride of knowing you’ve faced your battles with courage. The beauty of success is that it’s deeply personal tailored to your values, dreams, and circumstances.

We often forget that there’s no universal finish line. The millionaire in the penthouse and the teacher shaping young minds in the village  in a modest home are both successful, but their victories reflect different values.

The first step to embracing your unique version of success is giving yourself permission to define it. This requires silencing the noise of societal expectations and listening to your inner voice. What lights you up? What makes you feel alive?

Start celebrating the little victories, living within your means can be just as empowering as earning a six-figure income. A small, close-knit circle of friends is a treasure more valuable than any material possession.

Peace of mind by waking up without the weight of comparison is a triumph worth cherishing.

At its core, the pursuit of wealth and possessions is often a pursuit of happiness. But happiness is not for sale it’s cultivated through gratitude, authenticity, and connection. Instead of chasing someone else’s dream, why not pour your energy into building a life that feels good to you?

Imagine a world where we stopped competing and started celebrating each other’s unique paths. Your success doesn’t diminish theirs, and theirs doesn’t overshadow yours. There’s enough room for everyone’s light to shine.

If you’ve ever felt inadequate because you don’t own a big fancy house or a flashy car, remind yourself of this, success is not about having more. It’s about living fully on your terms.

So, let them enjoy their luxuries if that’s what makes them happy. But don’t let it make you feel less-than. Your joy, your peace, and your success are just as valid and they’re beautiful, because they’re yours.

Let go of comparison. Celebrate your journey. You’re doing just fine.

The Author,

Is a Freelance Writer, Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management Consultant.