Success​—How Do You Measure It?

VIEWED by some as the most successful Wall Street stock trader of all time, Jesse Livermore was known for making wise business decisions. As a result, he accumulated great wealth. He wore the finest hand-tailored suits, lived in a 29-room mansion, and rode in a chauffeur-driven black Rolls-Royce.

Davida was following a similar path. As vice president and general manager of a major graphics firm, he was in line to become a divisional president of the company. Wealth and prestige beckoned. However, David made a personal decision that led to his resignation. “I know that I will never have a big executive career again,” said David. Do you think David made a mistake?

Many believe that success involves the attainment of wealth, favor, or prominence. However, those enjoying material prosperity may still experience inner emptiness and a lack of meaning and purpose in life. That was evidently the situation of Mr. Livermore. Despite his wealth, he lived a life filled with heartbreak, tragedy, and sorrow. He experienced depression, failed marriages, and distant relationships with his sons. Finally, after losing much of his fortune, one day Mr. Livermore sat in the bar of a plush hotel and lamented his losses. He ordered a drink, pulled out his leather-bound notebook, and wrote a farewell note to his wife. Finishing the drink, he stepped into a dimly lit cloakroom and tragically took his own life.

For example, David, mentioned in the preceding article, was expected to work extra hours and to make frequent business trips. “I would leave early Monday morning and come back Thursday evening,” said David. Understanding that such sacrifices are needed in order to obtain worldly success, sincere friends, family members, and workmates urged David: “Do it for your family.” They reasoned that he would have to keep such a schedule for only a few years until he was established. David explained: “They rationalized that this would be better for my family because I could bring home more money​—I could be more successful. Although I was not with my family, my friends convinced me that I was actually giving more to my family.” Like David, many are working hard to give their family everything that they think their loved ones need. But does following this kind of advice lead to success? What does a family really need?

David found out while away on a business trip. “I was on the phone with my daughter Angelica, who said: ‘Daddy, why don’t you want to stay home with us?’ It was traumatic,” said David. His daughter’s remark strengthened his desire to turn in his resignation. David decided to give his family what they really needed​—him.