Why is it that the first thing we think about when we think of success is always money?
The answer is very simple. We think automatically think of money and cars and mansions because we don’t have those things. We think success is acquiring something we don’t have. But what happens when you have those things?
That is a simple answer too. You dream about or imagine even bigger things. While you and I are fixating on an Escalade or Range Rover, someone else might be dreaming of a private jet. Once you have one jet, you might be thinking about a fleet of planes of different sizes. There is no end to our imagination when it comes to acquiring things we do not have, but no matter what level you are on or what income level you are at, one common truth remains.
Once you have acquired that thing, got that job or had that kid, you will find that the desire for one more thing or accomplishment still lives inside of you. Sure, it may have subsided, but the real question begins to surface, Will I ever be satisfied?
To paraphrase the Backstreet Boys, it doesn’t matter who you are, where you’re from or what you’ve done, there will always be somebody with more than you. Even if you are number one on Forbes’ list of the wealthiest people on the planet, there will always be someone with more than you. They may not have more money, but they may have more power. You may have more power and money, but they may have more respect. You could have all the things in the world, but your relational life is a shambles, guess what, there will always be someone who has something ‘better’ than you.
But that’s not their problem. That’s my problem.
It’s not really about the stuff. It’s not really about the power, respect or money. It’s not really about the relationships or the cars, boats, planes or office towers. The one thing that each and every one of us is chasing down is fulfillment. But, to borrow from U2, you still haven’t found what you’re looking for.
If you are looking for the conclusion to this post then answer is very simple... this is an excerpt from my book #HopeNotHype which is available now!
Brett Esslinger is a Husband, Dad, Son, Brother, Pastor, Speaker, Leader, Writer whose life goal is to help people unlock their potential and fulfill their life's purpose.
Brett is the founder of Engage City Church & the Author of #HopeNotHype
Follow Brett on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook and of course over on Snapchat