Gustave Flaubert: 'Success is a consequence and must not be a goal.'

Success is a consequence and must not be a goal.

Flaubert's quote, "Success is a consequence and must not be a goal," encapsulates a profound perspective on the nature of achievement. At first glance, it seems to suggest that success should not be our primary focus, but rather a byproduct of our actions and endeavors. In essence, Flaubert reminds us that true fulfillment lies not in the attainment of success itself, but in the journey we undertake to reach it. By exploring this quote more deeply, we can encounter exciting philosophical concepts, such as existentialism, that further enrich our understanding.To grasp the essence of Flaubert's message, we must acknowledge that our fixation on success often blinds us to the true significance of our experiences. The pursuit of success can lead us to prioritize external validation and societal expectations, often at the expense of personal growth and contentment. Flaubert suggests that success should not be an end in itself, but rather a reflection of the authenticity, passion, and dedication we pour into our endeavors. In this way, he challenges us to shift our perspective and embrace success as an outcome of genuine effort and self-fulfillment.In parallel, the concept of existentialism sheds additional light on Flaubert's perspective. Existentialism, a philosophical movement championed by thinkers such as Søren Kierkegaard and Jean-Paul Sartre, emphasizes the individual's responsibility in creating meaning and purpose in their own lives. It argues that the pursuit of external goals, such as success, can distract us from the essential task of defining our existence. Instead, existentialism invites us to revel in the journey itself, recognizing that the process of self-discovery and self-actualization is far more valuable than any external markers of achievement.When we apply the lens of existentialism to Flaubert's quote, we find a profound resonance. By recognizing that success is a consequence rather than a goal, we liberate ourselves from the burden of narrowly defined expectations. We become aware that success is not synonymous with happiness or fulfillment, but rather a manifestation of our alignment with our authentic selves and the values we hold dear.This reconfiguration of our perspective allows us to focus more on the present moment and the quality of our actions, rather than fixating on distant goals. It encourages us to value the process of growth and the lessons learned along the way, irrespective of external outcomes. By divorcing ourselves from an obsessive pursuit of success, we reclaim our agency and create space for the exploration of our true passions and desires.In embracing Flaubert's message, we open ourselves to a world of possibilities beyond conventional notions of success. We begin to measure our triumphs not solely by society's measuring stick, but by the alignment between our personal values and our exquisitely crafted journey. In doing so, we may discover unexpected paths and forge connections previously unseen, enriching our lives in ways that surpass the limitations of societal definitions.Ultimately, Flaubert's quote serves as a gentle reminder to stop chasing success as an end in itself. By shifting our focus to the genuine pursuit of personal growth, authenticity, and self-discovery, we realign our values and priorities. It is in this recalibration that we find the true essence of success – not as the destination, but as the culmination of a life lived with purpose, integrity, and a relentless commitment to personal fulfillment. So let us embrace Flaubert's wisdom, redefine our relationship with success, and embark on a journey of self-enlightenment that transcends societal expectations – for success is indeed a consequence, but it should never be the sole goal.