Your Life Is Not an Excel Sheet: 3 Factors of True Success

In a world where success is often measured by stacks of money and follower counts, you might want to shout out loud: “What if I don’t want to be rich and famous, but just happy — does that make me a failure?” No. Because real success isn’t something you can show off in your stories. It’s something you feel. Inside. And you’re the master of it.

In a world where success is often measured by stacks of money and follower counts, you might want to shout out loud: “What if I don’t want to be rich and famous, but just happy — does that make me a failure?” No. Because real success isn’t something you can show off in your stories. It’s something you feel. Inside. And you’re the master of it.

I talked with smart people, flipped through hundreds of pages of wise books, and tried to get the most out of my life. The result? It all boils down to three things. No, not “money, power, sex,” as much as we might wish. But inner energy, career growth, and relationships with people. Three pillars without which your life will wobble like a stool in a cheap bar.

Inner Energy: The Fuel for Everything

You can be the best strategist, but if you don’t have strength, you can’t even order pizza properly, let alone build a business. Energy is like the battery of your inner iPhone. When it’s drained, you slow down. It’s simple: start paying attention to your body. Surprisingly, if you sleep more than 6 hours, don’t live on junk food, and move a little, you want to live.

I tested it myself: as soon as I start eating chips again and skip workouts, I turn into a couch potato. Once I get back to training and proper nutrition, I feel like a machine. And you know what? I even want to talk to people, not just scroll TikTok.

Tip of the day: Ask yourself: “What can I do today to feel more energetic?” — and do it. Every day.

Career: Don’t Just Climb the Ladder, Grow as a Person

You can be a top manager and still feel empty. Or an ordinary specialist who enjoys learning new things. The latter wins. Because growth is the key.

Clayton Christensen, a Harvard professor, wrote: “To find true happiness, you need to seek opportunities that are meaningful and allow you to learn and grow.” He’s right. My strongest boosts didn’t come after bonuses, but after gaining new knowledge and skills. That feeling of “I’m better than I was yesterday” — it’s priceless.

Want success? Keep learning. Constantly. Not for a diploma or a resume line, but for the feeling of growth.

Relationships: Quality Over Quantity

You can be hugged by a crowd in a club and still feel lonely. Because relationships aren’t about likes or “Bro, how’s it going?” It’s when someone stays by your side even when you mess up. When they’re with you not just for success, but for failure too.

I had times when I thought: “I have lots of acquaintances, so it’s all good.” But then I started losing energy and mood, and suddenly half of those “friends” disappeared. The real ones stayed. They’re few. But they’re real. And that’s what matters.

Relationships don’t just happen — you have to build them. Invest time and effort. Be there. And if you see no response — don’t beg. Just move on.