Damien Hirst: 'Being best is a false goal, you have to measure success on your own terms.'

Being best is a false goal, you have to measure success on your own terms.

In this blog article, we explore the thought-provoking quote by Damien Hirst, "Being best is a false goal, you have to measure success on your own terms." At first glance, this quote suggests that striving to be the best, in the conventional sense, may be an illusory pursuit. Instead, Hirst proposes that success should be defined and measured individually, based on one's own values, aspirations, and unique circumstances. This concept challenges the societal notion of competition and encourages individuals to embrace the journey of self-discovery and personal growth. However, let us delve deeper into the philosophical implications of this quote, introducing the concept of existentialism to add an unexpected layer of interest.Existentialism, a philosophical perspective that emerged in the 20th century, emphasizes the individual's freedom, subjective experience, and responsibility for their choices. Its central tenet is that individuals define their own purpose and meaning in life through their actions. Therefore, the alignment between Hirst's quote and existentialism becomes apparent as both concepts promote the idea of defining success based on personal terms.Hirst's statement challenges the idea of a universal standard for success and shifts the focus inward. It implies that measuring success solely by external benchmarks, such as societal recognition or material wealth, can lead to a sense of emptiness and dissatisfaction. Instead, Hirst encourages individuals to seek fulfillment and contentment by determining their own metrics for success.To understand the significance of measuring success on our own terms, let us consider an example. Imagine two individuals, Alex and Emma, who both aspire to become successful entrepreneurs. Alex defines success based on financial abundance, craving material possessions and societal recognition. On the other hand, Emma defines success through her ability to positively impact the lives of others, creating meaningful connections, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.While Alex might achieve financial success faster, accumulating wealth and external accolades, he may find himself constantly chasing the validation of others, always feeling a sense of discontentment. Emma, however, focusing on her own terms of success, might find fulfillment in the process of building meaningful relationships and making a positive impact, finding joy in both her personal and professional life. In the end, Emma might have a greater sense of purpose and contentment, as her concept of success aligns with her values and individual aspirations.By embracing the idea of measuring success on our own terms, we free ourselves from the constant comparison with others. We avoid falling into the trap of society's arbitrary standards, allowing us to lead a more authentic and fulfilling life. This perspective also acknowledges that success is not a fixed destination but rather an ongoing journey of growth and self-discovery.However, it is essential to recognize that defining success on our own terms does not mean disregarding the importance of continuous improvement or setting personal goals. This perspective encourages us to set targets that align with our values and personal aspirations rather than blindly following external expectations or arbitrary benchmarks.In conclusion, Damien Hirst's quote, "Being best is a false goal, you have to measure success on your own terms," serves as a powerful reminder that success is subjective and deeply rooted in personal values, aspirations, and inner fulfillment. By embracing this notion, we transcend the limitations of external validation and competition, leading to a more authentic and rewarding life experience. Drawing parallels with existentialism further solidifies the significance of defining success based on our own terms, as it aligns with the freedom and responsibility inherent in determining our own purpose and meaning in life. So, let us reflect on Hirst's words and embark on a journey of embracing our unique paths to success.