There’s not even a single man perhaps who doesn’t want to taste success in his life. Like everybody else, I too, desire to touch the zenith of success and reach the pinnacle of perfection. But my definition of success has changed in the last few years. Previously success to me meant name, fame and money. It was like reaching the top in one’s profession, piling up great wealth, and posing on the cover page of the Time magazine as a newsmaker. But with maturity, I discovered how erroneous my perception had been.

There’s no precise definition of success. I have now realised that even those people whose bank balances are not noteworthy are also eminent. They may not brandish significant authority and may not be recognised or pursued for autographs. Take for example the principal who resides next to my apartment. He established a secondary school that teaches values like self-esteem and love for God and the country. He is creating an ambience where children can grow in a healthy environment.

I have seen him sweat to motivate students to work harder to achieve their goals. He has proved himself to be an idol. Now the question is: Is he less successful than any tycoon? For over a decade I have seen an old nurse who has dedicated herself to the welfare of the blind elderly. Is she any less successful?

In a hospital for the past 17 years, I have had the opportunity to come across many doctors who have dedicated their lives to finding a cure for deadly diseases. Will they be considered successful only if they come with a cure for cancer or AIDS? No one can ignore his or her dedication.

I have, therefore, concluded that we all have our own definition of success and each one is equally precious and worthy. Success shouldn’t be evaluated externally; rather it should be intrinsically experienced. We are individuals holding our own unique place in the cosmos and scintillating from within as a result of whatever gives us our individual gleam. I have realised that the true essence of success, beneath the visible markers and goals, lies in personal satisfaction and fulfilment — it doesn’t necessarily have to be name, fame and money.