The tragedy of amazing success


credit: -djé-

A friend of mine died about a year ago, in fairly tragic circumstances. I use the term ‘friend’ loosely, because we didn’t hang out in social situations, but worked closely together and appreciated the way each other worked. I held him in very high regard: he was like an ‘attitude mentor’ and I aspired to develop in myself, some of the characteristics that stood out in him.

The thing that drew me to him most of all was his drive and enthusiasm for life. He was one of those guys that can’t sit still, always jumping on board the next venture. He had an entrepreneur mindset, and was very successful in his field. He threw his soul into his work, working long hours (many times 24 hours straight). His success afforded him many luxuries, and as a multi-millionaire he was able to change cars every 6 months or so. Some of the more memorable ones that I saw over just a couple years were: a Maserati, BMW M3, Porsche 911 turbo, and an amazing Aston Martin!


credit: Steve Timothy

“So this is living!” I thought.

In my line of work I’ve seen lots of tragedies. Fortunately I’ve managed to develop a healthy separation of work and home life, and don’t spend much time thinking back about work or stewing on things. It’s not that I don’t care, it really is the only way to do the job well and maintain my sanity!

Having said that, I have thought back about this man several times since he died. The reason I think back about this man is that to me his life seemed so great. He had a great family, a passionate drive for life, great work ethics and bucket loads of cash. Aren’t these the measures of success?

Somewhere along the line however, he got things wrong: his priorities were wrong and his values were wrong. I think he missed the boat when it comes to that fine balance of juggling work commitments and family. It’s made me reflect a lot more on life and living, and in particular asking the question what’s important in life? Does money really matter? At what cost does it come? How much of my admiration of this man was for his personality, and how much was for the success and material things that followed?

What’s really important in life?

Have you ever asked yourself:

  • Why am I here?
  • What is my purpose?

I’m sure you’ll agree that these are questions that get revisited from time to time as our personal situations and life experiences change. Sometimes it takes a big event to wake us up and think about what we value most. Certainly these are issues I’ve reflected on at length – do they mean anything to you?

On a final note, I guess the saddest part and most compelling evidence that my friend got it wrong, is because his death was a suicide.
What’s important to you in life?