leverage status and money, but don't let them define you

while pursuing ambitious paths, you typically collect status and money on the journey to your success. the fresh Series B announcement. the ARR charts shared. the Ferrari posted on a personal instagram. and it's the "dream" many people idolize. and once attained, it's a poison that can slowly blind people, and make them feel the world is at their heels. status and money are crucial things in human society. it's been since our inception as a species. how to gain them might have changed throughout the years, but their effect on people hasn't changed. the norm enjoy the perks and abuse it. the wise understand that status and money are just forms of leverage. they aren't what will fulfill you or make you happy. both come with their own problems and a certain level of fatigue. status and money gives a certain level of freedom from society when leveraged correctly. it's also why they say money talks but wealth is silent. in reality, you don't really crave money or status. you crave freedom to do what you want. you crave freedom from your insecurities and doubts about yourself.