Living In Gratitude: Strive To Be Of Value

Strive not to be a success but rather to be of value. ~ Albert Einstein

In Western society, much of what defines a person, especially in their ‘career,’ is their success. And this success usually revolves around the monetary or material as well as ‘one ups-manship‘, that unspoken concept of ‘keeping up with the Joneses’.

We are taught to strive for success rather than to be of value.

When we offer value, be it to the company that employs us, our spouse, children and family or our clients and friends, we are, by default, successful. Others are innately attracted to and appreciate those who selflessly offer their help and expertise.

To be a true success in life, we don’t have to (and shouldn’t) focus on competing against others in title, salary, the square footage of our homes or the GPAs or extracurricular achievements of our children. We are a success by teaching our children to have open hearts and tolerance, by lending a hand to those less fortunate than ourselves, by offering our guidance or expertise to our work colleagues and because we boost others up with no expectations of anything in return.

Just like the practice of expressing gratitude, offering value in life by definition invites positivity, opportunity, appreciation and success into our lives. Give it a try and watch as you reap amazing rewards.

So, in the words of Albert Einstein, one of the most brilliant men in history, “Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value!”