Success Without Passion?

Dear Friend,

One of the key elements of The Way of the Passionate Warrior lifestyle is the discovery and embrace of your life's true purpose. I sincerely believe that if you have not settled on the purpose of your life, you won't feel like a success.

Some folks disagree with me. They argue that, although living life according to your life's purpose breeds passion, a person can "succeed" without that passion if they are sufficiently disciplined.

The problem with this argument is that it carries with it a different definition of success than I use. The Way of the Passionate Warrior encompasses, in fact, a combination of, 1) approaching life with passion and, 2) adopting a life of discipline and positive habits. So I agree that discipline plays a key role in achieving any desired end. However, I define success as more than simply completing a task. My definition of success encompasses the sense of personal fulfillment and satisfaction that I believe most people seek when they pursue "success." I mean, what's the point of making a million dollars if you are miserable nevertheless. And many millionaires are miserable.

With The Way of the Passionate Warrior, an individual can achieve both tangible, material success and live a happier, more fulfilling life. To me, that's the real meaning of success.

All the best,

Hugh