The Absurdity of Success: Mustaches, Metrics, and the Search for Meaning

It’s October 17th, and my Movember mustache is already coming in strong. I know, I know—Movember doesn’t start for another two weeks, but why wait for November when you can start now, right? I mean, it’s like walking into a convenience store and seeing Christmas decorations already—before we’ve even gotten through Halloween! (Yes, I’m looking at you, lussekatter.)

Next up, I’ll probably meditate for 10 minutes, crush my 10,000 steps, and listen to a podcast about “winning at life” before sunrise. The question is: does hitting that step count or meditating really make you more successful? Or are we just getting ahead of ourselves—like stores with their Christmas decorations in October?

Now, don’t get me wrong—walking those steps and meditating do have real benefits (your body and mind will thank you), but it’s easy to get caught up in the idea that these small rituals are somehow the magic keys to success. Maybe the bigger question is: what are we actually hustling toward? And what happens when success isn’t about ticking off boxes but about finding purpose? This question is just as relevant for a recent graduate as it is for someone nearing retirement.

Chasing Success vs. Finding Purpose

We’re told to chase the metrics: money, titles, recognition. But somewhere along the way, we forgot to ask ourselves, what are we actually working toward? Today, more and more people are starting to challenge the traditional idea of success. It’s no longer just about working harder, making more money, or climbing the corporate ladder. For some, it’s about rewriting the rules and finding a purpose that aligns with their values. Success, it turns out, doesn’t look the same for everyone—and it doesn’t have to.

Finding Your Reason for Being

In all this hustle, maybe it’s time we take a cue from the Japanese concept of ikigai. Instead of just running on the hamster wheel, what if we could align our work with what truly matters to us? Something that doesn’t involve 4 a.m. alarms, marathon meetings, and copious amounts of energy drinks.

Finding your ikigai could be as simple as pursuing what excites you, whether it’s a creative project, a career aligned with your values, or even just making time for that mustache grooming session! The point is, success should feel fulfilling, not like an endless checklist of tasks.

So, the next time you feel the pressure to conform to success myths—whether that’s cramming in your 10,000 steps, meditating to manifest your dreams, or preparing for Christmas in October—remember:

It’s okay to pause.

It’s okay to reflect on what success means to you.

After all, life’s too short to get lost in the hustle. And if your mustache isn’t ready for Movember until November, that’s perfectly fine. It might even be a sign that you’re doing something right!

Author’s Note: The content above reflects my personal reflections and observations. It’s meant to offer a humorous take on the absurdity of modern success myths while encouraging us to find purpose in our pursuits. And yes, I’m fully aware of the irony in critiquing motivational posts while sharing my “wise” thoughts. It’s like being the guy at the gym who skips leg day but gives unsolicited advice on squats—definitely not the best look!

P.S. Here’s a look at my Movember mustache, fully loaded and ready for action! Remember, success is all about embracing your unique journey—mustache and all!