The American Dream

The United States of America is most prominently known for its declaration of freedom and equal opportunity for all people. The “American Dream” is based on this idea of equality, with the centralized mindset that all American citizens are granted the opportunity to achieve a prosperous and successful life. Living in America, one is immediately granted the rights that would otherwise be unattainable in varying countries. The term is a sort of ideal that suggests that if hard work is put into place, there are no restrictions refraining one from achieving maximum prosperity for themselves and those they care for. Many foreigners immigrated to America in hopes of achieving the “American Dream”, not only for themselves, but for the continued opportunity of their future generations.

Now, for the most part, how is success truly measured? The most common answer would more than likely pertain to the measurement of one’s wealth; however, wealth does have many variations within it. Personally, I view wealth simply as money or material possessions. It might sound acquisitive, but it’s unfortunately true that if you do not have money, you cannot be considered a wealthy man. Thus, some would go out on a limb and say if one is not a wealthy man, they are not successful; yet, I believe success can definitely be measured on an alternative scale. One does not need to have a lot of money or “wealth” to live a happy life and achieve what they wish to (though it does help). Hence, the “American Dream” is moreover a sought out adventure for success and achievement rather than plain old wealth.

Unfortunately, most Americans let these contradicting notions of wealth and poverty dictate their lives. Obviously, no one wants to live in poverty, dealing with the melancholy idea of struggling to survive day-by-day. Yet, on the other hand, I think that there are too many Americans that look at wealth and see it as a definitive goal in life. A lot of Americans are materialistic, and base their way of life on the idea that money is the ultimate prize. Some go to the extent to base their life value on the money that they have in their bank account. What these people are missing is the fact that money cannot always buy happiness. Sure, it might be able to help, but true happiness and success isn’t measured on a materialistic basis. It is rather obtained by the intangibles: family, friends, working a job you love (even if it doesn’t pay the highest). That is how I wish to view wealth throughout the course of my life. I wouldn’t say to completely disregard your concerns with wealth, but do rather focus primarily on achieving your personal successes in life. And hey, if wealth comes along the way, that’s just an added bonus.