Do you know someone rich and famous? Are they confident, popular, and joyful all of the time the idea of mainstream success? Or, on the other hand, are they stressed, having second thoughts about her life choices, and unsure about the meaning of their life? I am willing to bet it is the second one. Marketing and media have effectively brainwashed our society into accepting a false, even potentially dangerous definition of success. Marketers want us to believe that having lots of money, living in a big house, and owning all of the latest cars, fashions, and technology is the key to happiness, and success. This overstated, falsely advertised myth is hardly ever the case in real life. True success requires respect, appreciation, integrity, and patience all of which are traits that by human nature are genuinely difficult to attain especially in the face of modern marketers who relentlessly deceive us, control our thoughts, and steal our independence in order to increase their bottom line.
Marketers want us to believe that living a selfish life, involving nothing but the pursuit of money and fame will bring success and happiness. Sadly, this is not true. Money is comparable to the often-mentioned new toy, fun while it is brand new and fresh, it’s terribly boring and unexciting after a few hours of play. Money can buy us conveniences and comforts. One needs much more than superficial luxuries to live a successful, well balanced life. Money does make life easier but it does not necessarily make it better. For example, money cannot make one knowledgeable or wise that only comes with hard work and committed study. And money cannot help one forge a long term relationship with a husband that only comes through love, commitment, and sacrifice. All the money in the world cannot teach respect or courtesy that comes with a good upbringing and a strong concern for the feelings of others. Can money give the gift of patience, leadership, appreciation, courage, friendship