Greetings fellow steemians,I hope we are all good. It's my pleasure participating in this contest. Join me as I share my thoughts with you all.

Can a person truly be happy without being successful in societies eyes?.

![merry-christmas-2425121_1280.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmXpAJDeepeujBm9sWUi25RZWKchjb8iap7tKGPDgMJ9R9/merry-christmas-2425121_1280.jpg) [Source](https://pixabay.com/photos/merry-christmas-man-woman-dog-pet-2425121/) The question of choosing between happiness over success has been an age long question, which we have all been led to believe that success is the only key to happiness,is that really the case if I may ask?. Let's face it squarely,our society has this pretty definition of success. To them, it's all about the big house,the fancy car,the spacious office,as well as the fat bank account. Now my question is, what about us that does not fit into that category. What about that artist who cannot make a living from their craft, that musician who just plays for the joy of it and again what about that stay at home parent who finds fulfilment in raising their kids. All this are questions that demands an answer. To me, happiness is a personal and subjective experience. It's all about finding joy and fulfilment in the things that matter most to you. For some people,it might be achieving great things in their career or accumulating wealth. Again for others too,it might mean pursuing their passion, building meaningful relationships or simply enjoying the little things of life. I have come to the realization that the problem is that we get caught up in comparing ourselves to others and as we try harder to measure up to societal expectations. From there we begin to believe that we need to achieve certain milestones or reach certain levels of success in other for us to be happy. Happiness can not be bought rather it's an inside job. Now back to the question,can a person be truly happy without being successful in societies eyes. The answer is yes,we can. Infact,most people are finding happiness and fulfilment in unconventional ways such as volunteering, traveling as well as pursuing creative endeavors. Happiness is all about living a life that is true to who you are regardless of what others think,so forge your own way and find what brings you joy and fulfilment so don't let societal expectations dictate your path to happiness.

Do you believe success automatically brings happiness or they are two separate things.?

![woman-7115624_1280.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmcMer5d31nu2FuaNr29uybZbLPdSHRrfU3Tkoai2pGovV/woman-7115624_1280.jpg) [Source](https://pixabay.com/photos/woman-girl-fashion-female-people-7115624/) Honestly,I am of the opinion that success and happiness are two separate things. Just because a person achieved their goal or reached a certain level of success doesn't mean that they be happy automatically. From experience,I have seen people who have it all and yet they are still searching for something else. Also,I have seen and met people who achieved modest success and are radiating happiness and contentment. It's just about finding purpose, meaning and fulfilment in life, which are separate from external measures of success. Success no doubt contributes to happiness but it's not the only factor.

If you had to choose one,a happy life with simple living or a successful life with stress, which will you pick?

Frankly speaking,I would choose a happy life with simple living. From my observations,I think we have all been conditioned to believe that success is the ultimate goal,but at what cost?. You know,a life of stress anxiety and the constant pressure to perform is exhausting. I prefer rising up every morning feeling content,at peace as well as being connected to people and things that bring me joy. ![fog-7750811_1280.jpg](https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmVDp4uBehFk9JESdStEsRa8CVh1gkrf8muaf35ZGqp9Jg/fog-7750811_1280.jpg) [Source](https://pixabay.com/photos/fog-road-people-haze-city-park-7750811/) When we talk about simple living,it doesn't necessarily mean sacrificing my passions or goals,it means prioritizing what truly matters. I would concentrate on building and nurturing meaningful relationships and pursuing activities that will bring me happiness as well as appreciating little things in life. It's about living intentionally and finding fulfilment in the journey of life, I would prefer if given a life of simplicity, gratitude and joy over a life of stress and pressure. I am inviting @okere-blessing @saintkelvin17 and @wilmer1988 to participate in the contest. Thanks for your time.