The word success is possibly one of the most controversial words because, while everyone is looking to achieve success, nevertheless it is impossible that everyone agrees what is really “success”. Perhaps success is a concept similar to the concept of “God”; a large number of people seek him, deny him or declare themselves indifferent (agnostics), but nobody can really reach a common agreement about what is “God”. This applies also to “success”.

Possibly the easiest way to measure success is by “economic success”. How can we measure other types of success? In example:  ”romantic success” or “happiness success” (although Matthieu Ricard is proving the opposite)? Therefore, it is easier for us (and the literature) to quantify economic success.

Considering this, I would think it is valuable to know what does someone with major “economic success” thinks about “general success”, and I found some very interesting thoughts from a legendary person in the telecom industry: Carlos Slim. Although Carlos Slim is a very controversial figure … I will not speak about that, but I can say for sure that his thoughts about what is success are sublime. You can see them below:

“Success has nothing to do with what most people imagine. It is not related to the noble titles and academics titles you have, or the inherited blood or school where you studied. It is not related to the size of your house or how many cars will fit in your garage. It is not if you’re a boss or a subordinate, or if you are a prominent member of a social club. It has nothing to do with the power you exercise on other people, if you are a top executive or speak eloquently, it has nothing to do if the lights follow where you go or not. It is not the technology you use or because of the clothes you wear, or if your name defines your social status. It is not about whether you are an entrepreneur, you speak several languages, if you’re attractive, young or old.

Success is measured by how many people smile at you, how many people you love and how many people admire the sincerity and simplicity of your spirit. It is about if people miss you when you leave. It refers to how many people you help, how many you avoid damage and whether or not you are able to forgive. It is that your triumphs are included in your dreams. Whether your achievements will not hurt other fellows. It’s about your inclusion with others, not your control over others. It’s about if you used your head as much as your heart, if you were selfish or generous, if you loved the nature and children and if you cared for the elderly. It’s about your kindness, your desire to serve, your ability to listen other people and your behavior. It’s not about how many follow you but how many actually love you. It is about how many people believe you are truly happy or how many know you are only pretending it to be. It is the balance of justice that leads to well being. It’s the peace in your conscience, your undefeated dignity and your desire to be more, not having more.

THIS IS SUCCESS! “(Carlos Slim).