“This wise man observed that wealth is a tool of freedom.
But the pursuit of wealth is the way to slavery.”
― Frank Herbert, God Emperor of Dune
"Making it" is a colloquial expression that refers to achieving success, recognition, or a desired level of accomplishment in a particular field, endeavor, or aspect of life. It is often used to describe reaching a point where one's goals, aspirations, or dreams are realized, and where they have achieved a level of accomplishment that is satisfying or impressive. The exact definition of "making it" can vary widely from person to person, as it is subjective and dependent on individual goals and aspirations. It can encompass various aspects of life, such as career, personal achievements, financial stability, or social recognition.
"Making it" is often misconstrued as a singular destination, a tangible point on the horizon where success and fulfillment converge. However, a more profound perspective suggests that the journey towards "making it" extends beyond just a final achievement. It encompasses the ongoing process of crafting a life that aligns with one's values, passions, and aspirations.
The point I’ll try to make in this post is: instead of fixating solely on the end result, it's essential to consider the daily routines and activities that compose our lives.
When the concept of "making it" is limited to a distant achievement, the journey itself can become arduous and unfulfilling. The pursuit of goals can become a relentless pursuit of external validation or a relentless striving for societal recognition. This perspective often leads to burnout, as the focus is shifted away from the present moment. On the contrary, viewing "making it" as the creation of an ideal daily routine offers a more sustainable approach. Instead of chasing a predefined endpoint, one should work towards shaping their daily life in a manner that brings them joy, satisfaction, and a sense of purpose.
However, the allure of material success often blinds us to a more profound truth, one articulated by the Stoic philosophers and exemplified by Marcus Aurelius. It's a common pitfall that many individuals fall into – the assumption that acquiring wealth or external success will inherently bring clarity about what they truly want in life. This belief often stems from the societal notion that financial abundance equates to ultimate happiness and fulfillment. However, the reality is far more complex.
As Marcus Aurelius, the Philosopher Emperor, reflected, true wealth lies in understanding oneself and living in accordance with one's nature. While financial stability can undoubtedly alleviate certain stressors and provide opportunities, it doesn't guarantee an inherent understanding of one's passions, values, and purpose. In fact, the pursuit of wealth alone can easily lead to a disconnect from one's authentic self. People might become so consumed with external goals that they neglect to explore their internal landscape. This is where the discrepancy arises – the idea that "making it" is solely about achieving monetary success rather than cultivating a fulfilling daily existence.
It's a common pitfall that many individuals fall into – the assumption that acquiring wealth or external success will inherently bring clarity about what they truly want in life.
The core issue is the lack of introspection and self-awareness, principles deeply rooted in Stoic philosophy. Many people are so caught up in the fast-paced nature of modern life that they seldom pause to consider what truly resonates with them. Society's emphasis on instant gratification and external validation exacerbates this problem. As a result, people might climb the ladder of success, accumulate wealth, and yet find themselves feeling unfulfilled and adrift.
A more effective approach, involves turning the focus inward before pursuing external milestones. Engaging in self-discovery, reflecting on one's passions, and understanding personal values can provide a solid foundation for the journey towards "making it." When individuals have a clearer sense of who they are and what truly matters to them, they can chart a path that aligns with their authentic desires.
Moreover, it's important to recognize that the pursuit of "making it" isn't limited to the realm of the mind. Just as the ancient Roman author Juvenal famously stated, "Mens sana in corpore sano" – a sound mind in a sound body. Incorporating physical activity, whether through the gym or sports, is crucial to cultivating a balanced and harmonious life. True well-being encompasses both mental and physical wellness.
Ultimately, the process of "making it" involves a two-fold journey: one towards self-awareness and another towards external accomplishments. These journeys are interconnected, as self-awareness guides the pursuit of external goals in a way that ensures they are in harmony with one's genuine aspirations. Financial success can indeed contribute to a fulfilling life, but it's important to approach it as a means to an end – a tool for building the life you desire – rather than the end itself.
In conclusion, the misconception that getting rich will inherently provide clarity about life's purpose and desires is a flawed premise. Instead, the pursuit of "making it" should begin with inner exploration and self-awareness, guided by the wisdom of those who recognized the importance of understanding oneself. By understanding one's values, passions, and aspirations, individuals can then shape their external endeavors to align with their authentic selves. The true essence of "making it" lies not just in external achievements, but in the alignment of daily routines with a deeply satisfying and purpose-driven life, a philosophy that echoes through the ages and remains relevant today.
becoming sick has been the worst and best thing for me personally mainly just a perspective shift. life is stranger now but more real and interesting. the idea of "making it" makes me laugh tbh bc who really cares
very gud