What Defines Success? Is It Just Grades and Wealth?

True worth lies not in grades or wealth, but in the impact we make and the lives we touch.

Have you ever wondered what success truly means? Is it the grades we get in school, the reputation of the college we attend, or the size of our house? Many of us grow up believing these things define our worth. But is that really all there is to life?

There’s a saying about a frog living in a water well. For the frog, that well is its entire world. Why? Because it hasn’t seen anything beyond it, no lakes, rivers, or oceans. Could it be that many of us live like that frog, seeing success only through the narrow lens of societal expectations?

I grew up in India, where academic achievements and financial status often took center stage. In my middle-class family, conversations revolved around grades, prestigious colleges, and high-paying jobs. Even after marriage, this mindset stayed with me. When I had kids, I naturally focused on their academics and compared them to others; it felt normal because it was all I had ever known.

But as my children grew older, something changed. I started learning about different parenting styles and began questioning my beliefs. Could success mean more than just good grades or a big house? Could it be about creativity, kindness, or making a difference in the world? These questions led me to rethink how I was raising my kids.

Changing your mindset isn’t easy, though. Old habits and societal pressures can be hard to shake off. Even now, some relatives and friends cling to the traditional view that wealth and academic status are the ultimate markers of success. But is that really true everywhere?

Living in America has opened my eyes to a different perspective. Here, success isn’t always tied to degrees or college prestige. Have you noticed how many people without formal education have built incredible careers or made meaningful contributions to their communities? In America, if someone has an idea to solve a problem and the determination to pursue it, they can achieve great things. Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, and Mark Zuckerberg are great examples.

So, what does this mean for us as parents, friends, or individuals? Should we focus solely on grades and financial goals? Or should we encourage curiosity, resilience, and creativity? Perhaps success isn’t about fitting into a mold but about finding your own path and making a positive impact.

Next time you think about success, whether for yourself or your children, ask yourself: Are we looking at the whole picture or just the water well? Maybe it’s time to explore the ocean of possibilities that life has to offer.