Beyond Success to Significance

Posted on 19. May, 2009 by Trinidad Hunt in Leadership

I have done much reflecting on the meaning of life over the years. And I have come to realize that while success is a step along the upward path of life, it is not the highest peak on the mountain. Beyond the summit of success lies another even higher crest. It is the crowning jewel of the upward climb and provides the greatest source of joy. This is the capstone of significance.Himalya Peak

To live a life of significance is to live a life of meaning and purpose. It is to live a life of giving rather than taking. It goes beyond personal achievement to concern about the achievement of others. Einstein said it simply and succinctly when he said, "Try not to become a man of success but rather to become a man of value." 

You can imagine a life of significance as a life lived in flow, like a vast river, or a reservoir released, flowing outwards from its source. A life of significance energizes the hearts and inspires the minds of all those it touches along the way.

Deep inside of each of us is a desire to make a difference, to have our
lives count for something. This is the desire to live a life of significance. This desire is basic to all of us, for at the very heart of our hearts as human beings, we recognize our intrinsic connectedness. When this is expressed at its most basic level, we want to make a difference in the lives of those
around us. When felt at its most profound level, we experience being part of a greater extended
family, the family of humanity.

As we press forth to achieve success, the more the deepest hidden desire for significance finds its way into our vision just beyond the summit we've achieved.

2 Responses to “Beyond Success to Significance”

  1. Gene CrawfordNo Gravatar

    03. Feb, 2010

    I love this article and agree with the contents 100 percent. I made a decision [years ago] to live a meaningful life, even if that meant giving away time, and material things in order to be helpful to others. I chose education as my professional vehicle to pursue this career goal because I wanted to make a difference in the lives of others and I especially liked working with children. I am happier as a result of this decision because I have seen the fruit of my labor – I have many former students that are doing some pretty amazing things out in the world and I am extremely proud of them; I hope I am not too egotistical for hoping I had a small part in the success and significance these former students are enjoying.

    Additionally, my cup runs over with joy and pride as I look at my son and my daughter [who are outstanding citizens] and my grandchildren, whom I have been blessed to care for and influence. My house is good enough; it’s in the best community in the best country in the best nation in the world. Every day I reach out to others [usually in small ways now days], and offer a comforting hand, a kind word or a helpful deed. What a responsibility and opportunity! What a joy! What a gift to everyone involved. Give, and don’t worry about getting. You will. It’s not about what you gather, but what you scatter that tells what kind of life you have lived.

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  2. Trinidad HuntNo Gravatar

    03. Mar, 2010

    Gene,
    Please forgive the late reply!!! For some reason I was on the road and missed your comment. I’m so sorry about that because when I did read it just 2 days ago, I was inspired, uplifted and deeply moved.
    Those who achieve this state of peace and gratitude in giving are blessed indeed. I too am ever thankful for the opportunity to serve. And as you say in such fine words… “Give, and don’t worry about getting. You will. It’s not about what you gather, but what you scatter that tells what kind of life you have lived.”

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