You seem to be looking for the definitive, objective definition of success. As aomeone that codes for a living, that's understandable. var this_is_success has a definite value.<p>The reality is it doesn't. It could be any of those things you list or one of many many other things. It'll be different for different people.<p>Although I think a lot of people think a common measure of success is or should be your bank balance. It's not.<p>Happiness could be a good measure. But then you have to work out what would really truly define "happiness" for you. Not as easy as it sounds.<p>Also, you talk about "success" as if its a destination. You get there and - bam - success! But then what do you do with your life?<p>Forget the destination (there isn't one) and instead focus on the journey. You need to enjoy what you're doing on an ongoing basis.