Most people define success in individualistic terms—power, status, wealth. But Alfred Adler, the founder of individual psychology, believed that real success isn’t about standing above others—it’s about contributing to others.
He argued that humans are wired for social belonging, and that true fulfilment comes from having the courage to be yourself while positively impacting the world.
This aligns deeply with Empowerment & Elevation’s core philosophy: Do nothing. Be successful. Because the moment you stop obsessing over yourself—your status, your worth, your success—and start focusing on genuine contribution, you unlock effortless success.
Why Most People Feel Inadequate (And Keep Chasing More)
Adler believed that everyone starts life with a sense of inferiority—a feeling of being small, weak, or lacking compared to the world.
- Some people respond by chasing superiority—always proving, competing, or dominating.
- Others shrink into learned helplessness, believing they will never measure up.
Both paths lead to frustration, because they are self-focused. Adler taught that real success isn’t about proving yourself—it’s about finding meaning through contribution.
Genuine Success = Overcoming Self-Obsession
Adler’s ideal person was someone who:
- No longer seeks superiority over others.
- Has the courage to be their authentic self.
- Finds meaning in helping others thrive.
Success, then, is not about how much you take but how much you contribute. It’s about being useful, not just wealthy. When you shift from “How can I succeed?” to “How can I serve?”, success naturally follows.
This is what we mean by Do nothing. Be successful. Stop obsessing over personal gain, and start focusing on how you can contribute effortlessly. When you do, success comes as a natural byproduct.
How Chasing Success Blocks Contribution
- A man obsessed with making money isolates himself—only to realise he’s miserable.
- An influencer seeks fame—but feels empty because they contribute nothing meaningful.
- A high achiever spends years chasing status, only to realise it never brings fulfilment.
When you chase success for yourself, it loses meaning. But when you focus on impacting others, success happens effortlessly.
How to Apply Adler’s Philosophy (And Make Success Effortless)
1. Shift from Status-Seeking to Contribution
Stop asking, “How can I win?” Start asking, “How can I help?” The more value you provide, the more success naturally follows.
2. Have the Courage to Be Yourself
Adler taught that the greatest act of courage is authenticity. Success comes easiest when you stop pretending and fully embody who you are.
3. Stop Competing, Start Creating
Drop the obsession with proving yourself. When you shift from competing to creating, you become truly free.
Final Thought: Do Nothing. Be Successful.
Adler’s philosophy is clear: real success comes from impact, not ego. Stop chasing status. Focus on contribution. The less you force success, the more naturally it arrives.