Material Possessions vs Life Experiences

In my life, I have always found there has been a strange definition of “success”. Mostly, it comes down to climbing a corporate ladder and owning nice things. When did this become what we define as “success”?

From the outside, I have a lot of material possessions. My Mercedes, an investment property in Woolloongabba, jewellery I’ve purchased for my girlfriend, the ability to go on holidays… the list goes on. The truth is, however, none of this means anything if you aren’t earning them for the right reasons.

I work incredibly hard for the things I have and love my job – I think that’s pretty clear to anyone that knows me. However, I don’t want people to get caught up on the fact that it’s the things that I do this for. For me, it’s the experience of the hustle and the grind, and the opportunity it brings for me to add value to the community.

If there’s one thing I can teach my students it’s this simple lesson that we’ve all heard time and time again – money doesn’t buy happiness. You can have nice things and yes, they are nice to have, but money cannot buy loyalty, a supportive work environment, friends and family or true “success”.

For me, success lies in your experience. It lies in earning the right to sit and look back at your achievements, knowing you have done anything in your power to get there. For me, success is life experience, and not just the things you collect along the way.