I’ve always believed that success is a journey, not a destination. But let’s face it, in today’s society, many of us tend to equate success with certain status symbols. A luxury car, designer clothes, a high-powered job…you get the picture.

Now, don’t get me wrong.

These things aren’t inherently bad or unworthy. Who doesn’t love a well-tailored suit or the smell of a new car? But here’s where things get tricky.

Sometimes, we can get so caught up in these symbols that we start to mistake them for success itself. Just because you have a Rolex on your wrist or drive a Tesla, does it mean you’re successful?

According to psychology, not necessarily.

In fact, there are seven specific status symbols that we, especially those in the middle class, tend to confuse with genuine success. And that’s what we’re about to delve into.

So if you’ve been questioning your own definition of success or wondering why some things just don’t feel as fulfilling as they should – stick around. You might be surprised at what true success really looks like.

1) High-end cars

Let’s start with a classic.

High-end cars.

They’re sleek, shiny, and let’s be honest, they make a statement when you roll up at a stoplight. But do they signify success?

Sure, they indicate that you’ve got some cash to splash. But psychology suggests that true success isn’t about the brand of car you drive.

Here’s why.

Success is more about achieving your personal and professional goals. It’s about growth, development, and progression. And none of these things necessarily require a luxury vehicle.

While that shiny sports car might turn heads, remember that it’s just metal on wheels. True success is what happens when you get out of the car and how you make a difference in the world around you.

2) Lavish vacations

Growing up, I always thought that success was synonymous with fancy vacations. You know, the kind where you’re sipping cocktails on a pristine beach or skiing down the Swiss Alps.

I’ll admit, my first trip to an all-inclusive resort felt like I’d made it. I was living the high life, or so I thought. But as the novelty wore off, I realized something crucial.

Those lavish vacations were more about escaping reality than actually enjoying it. Sure, they provided great Instagram fodder and momentary happiness. But did they bring lasting fulfillment or indicate true success? Not really.

Psychology tells us that success is about finding contentment in our daily lives, not just during a week-long luxury getaway. It’s about creating a life from which you don’t need to escape.

So next time you’re scrolling through vacation photos feeling a pang of jealousy, remember this: true success isn’t about where you vacation, but about finding joy in your everyday life.

3) Designer labels

I’ve been there. Staring at my reflection in the mirror, decked out in designer clothes, feeling like I’m on top of the world. The hand-stitched logos whispered promises of sophistication, elegance, and yes, success.

But here’s the bitter truth.

Clothes do not make a person successful. They can’t reflect your intelligence, your kindness, your resilience, or your ability to navigate life’s challenges – the things that truly define success.

This relentless pursuit of designer labels can be a sign of insecurity or a need for validation, not success.

The real measure of success is not what’s in your closet but what’s in your character. It’s about how you treat people, how you overcome obstacles, and how you contribute to society.

So the next time you’re tempted to equate that designer label with success, remember this: true success isn’t about what you wear but who you are.

4) Expensive homes

We’ve all heard the saying “home is where the heart is.” But, let’s be real. In today’s world, it often feels like home is where the extravagance is. Marble countertops, sprawling backyards, high-tech security systems – these have become the hallmarks of a “successful” life.

But are they really?

Here’s what psychology has to say: a big, expensive home doesn’t necessarily equate to success or happiness. In fact, it can often lead to feelings of isolation and unnecessary financial stress.

Success isn’t about how big your house is. It’s about feeling safe and comfortable in your own space. It’s about building a home filled with love, laughter, and memories – regardless of its size or price tag.

So, whether you live in a mansion or a modest apartment, remember that true success lies in the warmth of your home, not its worth.

5) Impressive job titles

Have you ever noticed how our conversations often start with “What do you do?” We’re almost programmed to link someone’s worth or success to their job title.

But here’s an intriguing thing.

According to a study published in the Journal of Positive Psychology, people who pursued careers for personal passion and interest, rather than prestige or money, reported higher satisfaction and well-being.

In other words, an impressive job title doesn’t guarantee success or happiness. It might come with a higher salary or more recognition, but it can also bring stress, long hours, and less time for what really matters – like family, friends, and hobbies.

True success is about doing what you love and loving what you do. It’s about finding fulfillment in your work and making a positive impact.

Don’t let a job title define your success. Let your passion and purpose lead the way instead.

6) The latest tech gadgets

We live in a world where technology changes at the speed of light. One minute you’re holding the latest iPhone, and the next, it’s already outdated. It’s easy to feel like you need to keep up, to own the latest gadgets as a validation of your success.

But let’s take a step back and look at this from a kinder perspective.

Technology is wonderful. It connects us, helps us work more efficiently, and provides entertainment. But it isn’t an indicator of success.

Real success is not about owning the latest iPhone or the biggest flat-screen TV. It’s about how you use technology to enhance your life, not as a status symbol.

It’s about using those gadgets to connect with loved ones, learn new things, or contribute positively to your community.

Next time there’s a new tech gadget on the market, remember this: true success isn’t about what technology you own, it’s about how you use it to enrich your life and the lives of others.

7) Social media followers

In the age of social media, it’s easy to equate success with the number of followers or likes you have. But this could not be further from the truth.

The most significant measure of success is not how many people follow you online, but how you impact those in your real-life circle.

Success is about the relationships you build, the lives you touch, and the difference you make.

Remember, true success is about authenticity and meaningful connections, not just virtual ones.

Reframing success

When we strip away the material trappings, what is left is the essence of true success – personal growth, happiness, fulfillment, and the positive impact we make in our world.

If you’ve found yourself nodding along to these points, it’s possible you’ve been confusing status symbols for success. But, it’s never too late to redefine what success means to you.

It starts with awareness.

Acknowledge the societal pressures that make us conflate material possessions and job titles with personal achievement. Consider how much weight you’ve been placing on these external indicators versus your internal growth and happiness.

Then, gently shift perspective.

Instead of measuring success by what you have, measure it by who you are becoming. Consider the relationships you’re nurturing, the skills you’re learning, the difference you’re making.

Remember, a successful life is not one that looks perfect on paper or Instagram. It’s one that feels right in your heart.

It might take time and it won’t always be easy. But as you start aligning your life with your authentic definition of success, you’ll find a sense of fulfillment that no status symbol can match.

Take a moment today to reflect on what true success means to you. You might just find that it has nothing to do with status symbols and everything to do with living a life true to yourself.

And that’s something worth striving for.