“To laugh often and much: To win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children, to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty, to find the best in others, to leave the world a bit better whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you lived. This is to have succeeded.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
Forget the glittering plaques and trophies. Step down from the podium. Take a breather from the accolade from social media likes and posts. In a world obsessed with external validation, Ralph Waldo Emerson’s “What Is Success?” still resonates.
Penned in the 19th century, I came across his work in my high school literature class, and I continue to hold his definition of success in high esteem way and, above all, the speeches, platitudes and cliches delivered by personalities in these modern-day times though podcasts, talk shows, motivational speeches, TV interviews, and various forms of media, Emerson’s perspective resonates as the most meaningful to me.
Emerson’s powerful words resonate with nine distinct notes, each a vital instrument in the orchestra of a well-lived life:
Laughter
“To laugh often and much...” The quote opens with a life-affirming declaration. Laughter isn’t just a fleeting moment of amusement; it’s a wellspring of joy that keeps us youthful and vibrant. As Maya Angelou eloquently expressed, “It is not what happens to you that matters, but how you choose to laugh and love and move on.” Laughter strengthens the bonds of connection, fosters resilience in the face of hardship, and reminds us to find joy in the simple moments. Proverbs 17:22 (NIV), “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Laughter is a gift from God and a great way to stay encouraged.
Harmony
“To win the respect of intelligent people...” Recognition feels good, but genuine respect is earned through integrity, competence and the strength of our character. Earning the respect of those we admire, those whose opinions hold weight, is a testament to our values and choices.
Childlike affection
“To win the affection of children...” Children are uncorrupted truth detectors. Their affection isn’t bought with fancy possessions or grand gestures; it’s earned through genuine kindness, authenticity, and a heart that radiates warmth. Earning a child’s trust reminds us of the importance of authentic connection and an open heart.
Teachable
“To earn the appreciation of honest critics...” Not all feedback is created equal. Honest criticism, delivered with sincerity and a desire to see us improve, is a valuable gift. Winston Churchill once stated, “Criticism may not be pleasant, but it is necessary. It fulfills the same function as pain in the human body; it reveals that something is wrong.” Learning to appreciate constructive criticism allows us to grow, evolve, and reach our full potential. It’s the dissonance that precedes a more beautiful harmony.
Resilience
“To endure the betrayal of false friends...” Betrayal stings, a harsh discord in the symphony of life. It tests our resilience, teaching us to discern genuine friendships from fleeting alliances. Emerging stronger from the experience allows us to build deeper, more trustworthy connections in the future.
Appreciation and wonder
“To appreciate beauty...” The world is a symphony of sights and sounds, a canvas brimming with breathtaking beauty. From the majestic sweep of a mountain range to the delicate intricacies of a flower, beauty exists everywhere if we choose to see it. Book author Wayne Dyer observed, “If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.” Cultivating an awareness of this beauty enriches our lives, fostering a sense of awe and wonder. It reminds us to slow down, savor the present moment, and find joy in the simple things.
Benevolence
“To find the best in others...” Cynicism is easy, a discordant note that can quickly sour the melody. But we are choosing to see the inherent goodness in people, even when flawed, fosters connections based on empathy and understanding. This positive outlook strengthens our communities, creating a ripple effect of kindness.
Positive influence
“To leave the world a bit better...” Success isn’t confined to personal achievements. It’s also about making a positive impact on the world around us.
Emerson reminds us that true success transcends material wealth or professional accolades. The depth of our relationships measures it, the impact of our actions, and the legacy we leave behind. Reflecting on these pillars, we are challenged to assess our lives and strive for meaningful, fulfilling and enduring success.
(Francis Kong’s “Inspiring Excellence” podcast is now available on Spotify, Apple, Google, or other podcast streaming platforms).