The notion of pursuing culturally endorsed values is presented in chapter 1 of Richard Shell’s “Springboard” through a thought-inspiring quote by Marcus Aurelius. The quote outlines the paradox of human behavior, showing how people, even though they think of themselves as unique entities, are too influenced by the opinions of others about themselves (Shell, 2014). This points to the need for contemplation of the role external expectations play in identity creation and accepting that one’s definition of success should be in line with the values one has chosen individually
From cradle to grave, people indoctrinated or conditioned into societal norms, family expectations, and cultural standards all affect their view of success. These external influences can transmit values into individuals that are not necessarily the ones that deeply match their true personality (Shell, 2014). Take for example, that a person can succumb to the societal pressure to focus on accumulation of material wealth, professional status or external recognition as measures of success, and in turn incorporate it in one’s values, even if they do not match to his inner motivation and aspirations..
In my own experience, society brings up the criteria that success is defined as career advancement or financial stability in particular. Despite how much others agree and applaud them, they may not be what I consider a success. Instead, I opt for attributes that include authenticity, personal development, as well as significant interactions with other people. Nevertheless, occasional presence of the powerful social pressures compelled me to raise some doubts on my individual values and seriously think of yielding to the external expectations. To address this dilemma of conflicting values that are externally imposed, and internal motivations that are self-determined, involves embarking on a journey of self-discovery This is a process of questioning the genesis of one’s values, subjectively appraising these values to whether they are aligned with one’s personal beliefs and aspirations, and having the guts to tread a path that brings to light one’s true self.
One approach to the congruence of personal values with pursuing success is the internal pursuit, such as mediation or journaling to realize the values and goals that deeply matter (Shell, 2014). When people invest their time and regard in introspection they are able to grasp their genuine motivations and using this information find real-life actions that are consistent with their authentic self. Furthermore, we can seek advices and help from mentors, friends or community with similar values that would make us validated and encouraged for the success. Being in a community of people who prefer authenticity and personal fulfillment can emphasize the fact that it is important to stay on the right track to your own values. They can also enable you to define your own path to success.
In conclusion, Marcus Aurelius pointed out the penetrating role of a third party’s perspective in one’s practice and the importance of self-awareness and authenticity in the pursuit of success. By accepting, and letting them penetrate us, we can strive for a way of being that is aligned with our true selves, and positively charged with our values chosen by each of us personally. Moreover, self-reflection, self-awareness, and stepping into a community of like-minded people help us to stand out from the crowd and carve our own way of success that is genuine, fulfilling, and unique.
References
Shell, G. R. (2014). Springboard: Launching your personal search for success. Penguin.
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