What is Success? Society measures success based on economic status and material possessions. Have you ever bought something new and you were initially excited, but then the joy faded? The cycle continues when an upgraded version of the product you have recently bought is released. I can recall experiencing this every time I upgrade my cell phone or go shopping for the latest trend. Ultimately, I have come to realize that  satisfaction felt from material possessions and financial gain is temporary and only in the moment. The epitome of success is happiness.

One may wonder, what is the definition of true happiness? The dictionary defines happiness as a mental or emotional state of well-being defined by positive or pleasant emotions ranging from contentment to intense joy. This explains that true happiness starts from inside and is expressed outward. I compare this process to the effect of a pebble thrown in the pond. When one throws a pebble into the pond a small ripple spreads outward to create the ripple effect.

The next question that comes to mind is, where does one start to find true happiness? I believe one must change his or her mindset to find happiness. One must make creating happiness a daily focus. Creating consistent happiness begins with finding your purpose in life. Take a minute to think about, what makes you get out of bed each morning that you are passionate about? This is what you were equipped with by God to pursue. You’ll know that what you are pursuing is in sync with God’s plan because it will bring you unexplained joy and contentment. Your purpose will help others simultaneously as it helps you to become better.

Now that you have discovered your purpose, consider how will this purpose help you grow in personal areas of your life and how can it change the lives of others? Your answers to these questions are your guide to grab personal happiness. As a result, this happiness will help you achieve success because of the passion that pursuing your purpose ignites in you.