7 signs you’re a successful person (even though you don’t have much money)

Society often equates success with a hefty bank balance. But I believe there’s more to it than that.

You see, many people who lead fulfilling and successful lives don’t necessarily measure their worth in dollars and cents. 

These people don’t have a six-figure salary or a luxury yacht yet they have an abundance of happiness, connections, health, and mental peace.

When you look at success through this alternative lens, you might realize you are more successful than you thought. 

And to help you determine that, I’m sharing seven signs that reveal you’re living a successful life, beyond just the numbers on your paycheck.

So, if you’ve ever thought “Is there more to success than just money,” read on. Let’s redefine what success truly means.

1) You’re content with what you have

Let’s start here.

Success isn’t about possessing everything. It’s about appreciating what you already have.

Material possessions can certainly make life more comfortable, but they aren’t the be-all and end-all.

If you’re someone who finds joy in the simple things, values experiences over possessions, and doesn’t need extravagant things to feel satisfied, then you’re already successful.

In other words, if you can look around at your life right now — your modest home, your old car, or even your favorite comfy sweater — and feel content, then that’s a clear sign of success.

And research supports this.

A study by the University of Texas found that experiences provoke more satisfaction than material possessions do.

2) You’re constantly learning and growing

This one is close to my heart.

I’ve always believed that success is a journey, not a destination. And a big part of this journey is about learning and growing as a person.

I remember when I first started learning to play the guitar. I didn’t have a fancy instrument or a private tutor. I had an old guitar and free online tutorials.

But I was determined to learn.

It was tough, and progress was slow. There were times when my fingers hurt so bad, I wanted to quit.

But I didn’t. I kept going, kept practicing, and over time, I got better.

Today, I’m no rockstar, but I can strum a few songs around the campfire. And every time I do, it feels like a little victory.

Why?

Because it’s a testament to my persistence and growth, which to me is far more valuable than any monetary success.

So if you’re someone who continually seeks out opportunities for personal growth and learning, irrespective of your financial situation, then you’re already on the path to success.

3) You have strong relationships

Here’s something I’ve realized.

Success – real, meaningful success – is about relationships. It’s about the people you surround yourself with, the connections you forge, and the love you share.

You see, I might not be the richest person in the room, but when I look around and see the genuine smiles, hearty laughter, and warm hugs of my loved ones, I feel like the wealthiest person alive.

Money can buy a lot of things, but it can’t buy authentic relationships. It can’t buy those 2 AM heart-to-heart talks with your best friend or those Sunday family dinners filled with laughter and love.

In fact, research shows that our relationships evoke some of our strongest emotions -happiness, contentment and calmness. So the better our relationships, the stronger we will experience these things.

So, if you have people who will stand by you through thick and thin, who will lift you when you’re down and celebrate with you when you’re up – then my friend, you’re successful.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not about how much money we have in our bank accounts; it’s about how rich we are in love and relationships. And if we’re rich in those, we’re richer than we think.

4) You’re not afraid to fail

Let me share something about myself.

I’ve failed. More times than I can count, in more ways than I care to remember.

But here’s the thing – I’m not ashamed of it. In fact, I’m proud.

Why?

Because each failure has been a stepping stone to my success. Each stumble has taught me something new, each fall has made me stronger.

Success isn’t about never failing. It’s about getting back up every time you do. It’s about dusting off the dirt, nursing your wounds, and getting back in the game with renewed vigor and determination.

So if you’re someone who isn’t afraid to take risks for fear of failure, if you view each setback as a setup for a comeback, then congratulation – you’re successful.

5) You make a positive impact on others

Here’s something intriguing.

Did you know that one of the most common regrets people have on their deathbeds is wishing they had made a more significant impact on the lives of others?

It’s true. And it’s something that resonates with me deeply.

You see, success isn’t just about personal achievements or financial prosperity. It’s also about the difference we make in other people’s lives.

Perhaps you’re not able to donate thousands to charity, but maybe you’re the person who always lends a listening ear to a friend in need.

Maybe you give up your seat on the bus for someone who needs it more, or perhaps you’re known for your infectious laughter that brightens up any room.

These small acts of kindness may not seem like much, but they have a profound impact on those around you.

So if you’re making a positive difference in the lives of others, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, then rest assured – you’re successful. 

6) You take care of your mental and physical health

This one’s a bit personal to me.

I’ve had my share of health challenges. And through these experiences, I’ve come to realize that the greatest wealth we can possess is our health.

You see, no amount of money can buy a peaceful mind or a healthy body. These are things that we must consciously work towards, regardless of our financial status.

It’s easy to get caught up in the rat race, to sacrifice sleep for extra work hours, or skip meals to meet deadlines.

But at the end of the day, if we’re not taking care of our health, are we truly successful?

7) You’re true to yourself

Here’s the crux of it all.

Being successful isn’t about emulating someone else’s journey or living up to society’s expectations. It’s about being authentically you.

It’s about pursuing what makes your heart sing, even if it doesn’t make your wallet heavy. It’s about staying true to your values and convictions, even when the world tries to sway you otherwise.

If you can look in the mirror every day and say, “I am living my truth,” then you, my friend, are undoubtedly successful.

Living a life that’s true to who you are – now that’s the ultimate success.

The final takeaway

I hope this article has helped you realize that success is more than a dollar sign. It’s a mindset, a perspective, a way of life.

And if you recognize yourself in these signs take a moment to count your blessings..

You may not have an overflowing bank account but if you’re rich in relationships, contentment, personal growth, and health, you ARE successful.