A Simpler Success by Julia

A Simpler Success by Julia - February 2021 Scholarship Essay

The typical idea of success is wealth, right? At least that’s what most people think. The typical idea of success is being better than everyone else, right? Not quite. For me, success is a lot more simple than six figures or holding the highest position at a major business. When I manifest the success of my future, I envision happiness, gratitude, and peace. And the only person I am competing with is the person I was the day before.

My mindset is driven by gratitude. I have learned that when I am mindful of the things in my life, thankful for them, and aware that I need nothing else, everything falls into place. With school, work, and extracurricular activities, my body and mind rarely shut off. Getting caught up in these things society views as necessary to be successful can cause me to overlook the smaller things that matter. Things as simple as being able to have warm showers or cuddling into my cool bed comforters on a summer night are so normal to me, that I forget how blessed I am to have them. Being mindful, present, and thankful truly changes my attitude. I can become the wealthiest woman in the world, but unless I find time to relish in life’s finer things, money will only lead me to misery. On the other hand, gratitude brings joy.

As I enter college, I will continue to practice this mindset. My faith that gratitude is the main source of happiness is very strong, and I believe that happiness is the true definition of success. Years from now, if I have mastered gratitude and mindfulness, I will be at peace. If I am at peace, I will be happy. Then, I will be content with a successful life. Of course, I have career goals and educational goals, but those do not define my success. If I am persistent at working towards those desires daily, and if I push myself everyday to do better than yesterday, then I am giving all I have. Sometimes, your best is all you can do. I am confident that I am fully capable of achieving whatever I set my mind to. If I get there, great. If I don’t, it was never meant for me. I know I will find the right path, and no matter where I end up, I know success will follow me because for me, success is a lot more simple than six figures or holding the highest position at a major business.