This question has flummoxed and baffled individuals for quite a while. We only have to look at history to evaluate the veracity and authenticity of this question. A number of films, documentaries and plays have also been made on how success plays with the minds and psyche of people and this is an oft-explored theme in print, visual and social media.
I am going to confine this article to the worldly definition of success – the acquisition of wealth, power and status. A large number of people would disagree with this definition of success but that is how the world defines it, especially as it becomes increasingly materialistic and avaricious. Generally, acquisition of wealth is the first step to the attainment of power and status and once you have all three, the world views you as a success.
Why is it a heady combination? Probably because it gives you an air of invincibility and indestructibility and you see a change in the way people behave around and with you. Most people tend to be very ingratiating and deferential in their attitude because now that you have money, power and status, you can probably do a lot more for them than you previously could so it is advisable to be in your good books.
A lot of course depends on the individual in question. If sycophants are encouraged and the individual tends to be easily swayed by flattery, that of course will encourage more and more of it. Mental and emotional strength is now required and tested time and again. A genuine circle of friends and well-wishers become extremely important who help you to look at things objectively and realistically rather than agree with everything you say and flatter you at every available opportunity.
Shakespeare, through his play Macbeth explores the dark and insidious side of power through his protagonist. Banquo in contrast is shown to be more grounded and not easily swayed. That is strength of character which he displays and Shakespeare through contrasting the two highlights the difference between the reactions of the two men to the witches’ predictions. What unfolds and unravels in this dark, violent and bloody tragedy is what happens to people who fall prey to the heady combination of power and status.
A number of Shakespearean tragedies have been adapted for the small and big screen because the themes running through them are extremely relevant to the modern world. Greed, avarice, bloodshed, violence, lust for power and many more related themes are to be seen everywhere. However, individuals who hail from a strong background, stay close to their roots and are not easily influenced by flattery or adulation generally remain largely unaffected.
A lot also depends on the sacrifices made in the quest for success and power. A number of the success stories we see around us are not overnight successes but have emerged and carved a path for themselves through decades of perseverance, hard work and immense grit. Obviously, that requires a lot of mental and emotional strength and immense commitment and dedication. However, once you’ve reached the pinnacle of your career, that opens another Pandora’s box. Success attracts unwanted attention as it brings you in the spotlight. Very few people are genuinely happy for you and do envy and begrudge you your success and newly found power and status.
To summarise, the pursuit for success requires immense single-mindedness and focus but in order to sustain that success and prevent it from completely sweeping you off your feet, it is important to remain grounded and not lose your ability to look at things objectively. This is now a new chapter and phase in your life where you need to tread very carefully and not lose sight of your priorities. Surround yourself with genuine people and be strong enough to stand by your decisions. Let your experience, acumen and your insight be your driving force and never forget all that you had to sacrifice and forego in order to reach where you did. Last but not the least, always remember God and be grateful to him for all his bounties and blessings.
