What Is Success By Ralph Waldo Emerson?

Last Updated on December 15, 2022

Success is a concept that has been widely discussed and debated by philosophers and thinkers throughout history. In his famous essay “Success,” Ralph Waldo Emerson offers his own unique perspective on what it means to be successful.

Success According To Ralph Waldo Emerson

As Emerson’s quote goes:

“To earn the respect of intelligent people and to win the affection of children;
To appreciate the beauty in nature and all that surrounds us;
To seek out and nuture the best in others;
To give the gift of yourself to others without the slightest thought of return, for it is in giving that we receive;
To have accomplished a task, whether it be saving a lost soul, healing a sick child, writing a book, or risking your life for a friend;
To have celebrated and laughed with great joy and enthusiasm and sung with exaltation;
To have hope even in times of despair, for as long as you have hope, you have life;
To love and be loved;
To be understood and to understand;
To know that even one life has breathed easier because you have lived;

This is the meaning of success.”

According to Emerson, true success is not about achieving wealth or fame, but rather about living a life that is true to oneself. He argues that true success comes from pursuing one’s passions and goals with integrity and determination, and from following one’s own path, even if that means going against the norms and expectations of society.

Emerson believes that true success requires a strong sense of self-reliance and independence. He writes, “To be great is to be misunderstood,” suggesting that true greatness comes from being true to oneself and not conforming to the expectations of others.

In addition, Emerson argues that true success requires a deep sense of connection to the world around us. He writes, “The eye was placed where one ray should fall, that it might testify of that particular ray.” In other words, we each have unique gifts and talents that we are meant to use to make a positive impact on the world.

While Emerson’s ideas on success are certainly thought-provoking, they may also be somewhat controversial. Some people may argue that wealth and fame can be valid markers of success, and that pursuing these goals can be a worthwhile endeavor.

Furthermore, the idea of self-reliance and independence may not be feasible or desirable for everyone. Some people may find that they need the support and guidance of others in order to achieve their goals, and that relying on others can be a positive thing.

Additionally, the idea of “greatness” and making a positive impact on the world may not be applicable to everyone’s goals and aspirations. Some people may be content with simply living a happy and fulfilling life, without necessarily striving for greatness or making a large impact.

In conclusion, Ralph Waldo Emerson’s essay “Success” offers a thought-provoking perspective on what it means to be successful.

Rather than focusing on external markers of success such as wealth and fame, Emerson emphasizes the importance of living a life that is true to oneself and making a positive impact on the world. Overall, his perspective encourages us to reject societal norms and expectations and to pursue our own passions and goals with determination and integrity.