The Mirage of Success: Why More Is Never Enough
Passion Struck with John R. Miles
We've all been there—pushing, striving, chasing what we think will bring happiness. A bigger salary. A better title. More recognition. But what if the very thing you're running toward is an illusion?
In today's episode, we're breaking down the Mirage of More—the false promise that external success leads to internal fulfillment. We'll explore why we keep chasing things that don't sustain us, how to recognize when you're caught in the cycle, and—most importantly—how to walk away before it's too late.
What You'll Learn in This Episode
✔ Why we're wired to seek "more"—and why it never feels like enough ✔ The psychological trap of achievement (and how to escape it) ✔ The Harvard research that proves success isn't what makes us happy ✔ How to recognize when you're caught in the Mirage of More
Next Episode Preview
Next week, I'm sitting down with Dr. Shige Oishi—one of the world's top researchers on human well-being. We're diving into his new book, Life in Three Dimensions: How Curiosity, Exploration, and Experience Make a Fuller, Better Life. And trust me—this conversation will change the way you think about how you live.
How to Connect with John
- Twitter: @John_RMiles
- Instagram: @John_R_Miles
- Main YouTube Channel
- YouTube Clips Channel
- John's website
Take the Quiz
Want to explore where you stand on the path to becoming Passion Struck? Take our 20-question quiz on Passionstruck.com.
Join the Community
Sign up for the Live Intentionally newsletter for exclusive content, actionable advice, and insights to help you ignite your purpose and live your most intentional life.
Speaking Engagements & Workshops
Are you looking to inspire your team, organization, or audience to take intentional action in their lives and careers? Learn more about keynote speaking, workshops, and leadership training.
Episode Starter Packs
With over 500 episodes, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. We've curated Episode Starter Packs based on key themes like leadership, mental health, and personal growth.
More Episodes on This Topic
- Why We All Crave To Matter: Exploring The Power Of Mattering
- Jennifer B. Wallace on the Consequences of Prioritizing Achievements Over Mattering
- Arthur C. Brooks on Finding Success, Happiness, and Purpose
- Robin Sharma on the 8 Forms of Wealth That Determine Success
- Fading into Insignificance: The Impact of Un-Mattering in Our Interconnected Era
Download the Episode Worksheet
If you found value in this episode, share it with a friend and leave us a review to help spread the message of intentional living. Let's bridge the gap between theory and action and live our lives with purpose!
Raw Description
<p>We’ve all been there—pushing, striving, chasing what we think will bring happiness. A bigger salary. A better title. More recognition. But what if the very thing you’re running toward is an illusion?</p><p>In today’s episode, we’re breaking down the Mirage of More—the false promise that external success leads to internal fulfillment. We’ll explore why we keep chasing things that don’t sustain us, how to recognize when you’re caught in the cycle, and—most importantly—how to walk away before it’s too late.</p><p>Download the Episode Worksheet in the shownotes at: <a href="https://passionstruck.com/the-mirage-of-success-why-more-is-never-enough/" target="_blank">https://passionstruck.com/the-mirage-of-success-why-more-is-never-enough/</a></p><p><strong>What You'll Learn in This Episode</strong></p><p>✔ Why we’re wired to seek "more"—and why it never feels like enough</p><p>✔ The psychological trap of achievement (and how to escape it)</p><p>✔ The Harvard research that proves success isn’t what makes us happy</p><p>✔ How to recognize when you’re caught in the Mirage of More</p><p><strong>Next Episode Preview:</strong> <i>Next week, I’m sitting down with Dr. Shige Oishi—one of the world’s top researchers on human well-being. </i>We’re diving into his new book, <i>Life in Three Dimensions: How Curiosity, Exploration, and Experience Make a Fuller, Better Life.</i> And trust me—this conversation will change the way you think about how you live.</p><p>How to Connect with John:</p><ul> <li>Connect with John on Twitter at @John_RMiles and on Instagram at @John_R_Miles.</li> <li>Subscribe to our main YouTube Channel <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/85feb7a6-7f1a-4066-9a1d-a29e70386613/shows/5ceb52e3-6ac2-4698-82cb-ce8214a5be04/episodes/7d803179-dfdc-4be0-a5e1-0c4ce8dec8ab/#" target="_blank">here</a> and to our YouTube Clips Channel <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/85feb7a6-7f1a-4066-9a1d-a29e70386613/shows/5ceb52e3-6ac2-4698-82cb-ce8214a5be04/episodes/7d803179-dfdc-4be0-a5e1-0c4ce8dec8ab/#" target="_blank">here</a>.</li> <li>For more insights and resources, visit <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/85feb7a6-7f1a-4066-9a1d-a29e70386613/shows/5ceb52e3-6ac2-4698-82cb-ce8214a5be04/episodes/7d803179-dfdc-4be0-a5e1-0c4ce8dec8ab/#" target="_blank">John's website</a>.</li> </ul><p>Want to explore where you stand on the path to becoming Passion Struck? Take our 20-question quiz on <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/85feb7a6-7f1a-4066-9a1d-a29e70386613/shows/5ceb52e3-6ac2-4698-82cb-ce8214a5be04/episodes/7d803179-dfdc-4be0-a5e1-0c4ce8dec8ab/#" target="_blank">Passionstruck.com</a> today!</p><p>If you found value in this episode, share it with a friend and leave us a review to help spread the message of intentional living. Let’s bridge the gap between theory and action and live our lives with purpose!</p><p>Sponsors:</p><ul> <li>Mint Mobile: Cut your wireless bill to 15 bucks a month at “MINT MOBILE dot com slash PASSION.”</li> <li>Hims: Start your journey to regrowing hair with Hims. Get your free online visit at hims.com/PASSIONSTRUCK.</li> <li>Quince: Discover luxury at affordable prices with Quince. Enjoy free shipping and 365-day returns at quince.com/PASSION.</li> <li>Rosetta Stone it's the only way that allows you to Unlock 25 languages for life at “<a href="https://www.rosettastone.com/passionstruck" target="_blank">ROSETTASTONE.com/passionstruck.”</a> </li> <li>Prolon helps you Reset your health with 15% off at <a href="https://prolonlife.com/passionstruck" target="_blank">“ProlonLife.com/passionstruck.”</a> </li> </ul><p>For more information on advertisers and promo codes, visit Passion Struck Deals.</p><p>Join the Passion Struck Community! Sign up for the Live Intentionally newsletter, where I share exclusive content, actionable advice, and insights to help you ignite your purpose and live your most intentional life. Get access to practical exercises, inspiring stories, and tools designed to help you grow. Learn more and sign up <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/85feb7a6-7f1a-4066-9a1d-a29e70386613/shows/5ceb52e3-6ac2-4698-82cb-ce8214a5be04/episodes/7d803179-dfdc-4be0-a5e1-0c4ce8dec8ab/#" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p>Speaking Engagements & Workshops: Are you looking to inspire your team, organization, or audience to take intentional action in their lives and careers? I’m available for keynote speaking, workshops, and leadership training on topics such as intentional living, resilience, leadership, and personal growth. Let’s work together to create transformational change. Learn more at <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/85feb7a6-7f1a-4066-9a1d-a29e70386613/shows/5ceb52e3-6ac2-4698-82cb-ce8214a5be04/episodes/7d803179-dfdc-4be0-a5e1-0c4ce8dec8ab/#" target="_blank">johnrmiles.com/speaking</a>.</p><p>Episode Starter Packs: With over 500 episodes, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. We’ve curated Episode Starter Packs based on key themes like leadership, mental health, and personal growth, making it easier for you to dive into the topics you care about. Check them out at <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/85feb7a6-7f1a-4066-9a1d-a29e70386613/shows/5ceb52e3-6ac2-4698-82cb-ce8214a5be04/episodes/7d803179-dfdc-4be0-a5e1-0c4ce8dec8ab/#" target="_blank">passionstruck.com/starterpacks</a>.</p><p>Catch More of Passion Struck:</p><ul> <li> <a href="https://passionstruck.com/exploring-the-power-of-mattering/" target="_blank">Check My solo episode on Why We All Crave To Matter: Exploring The Power Of Mattering</a>.</li> <li><a href="https://passionstruck.com/jennifer-b-wallace-achievements-mattering/" target="_blank">Catch My Episode with Jennifer B. Wallace on the Consequences of Prioritizing Achievements Over Mattering</a></li> <li><a href="https://passionstruck.com/arthur-c-brooks-on-finding-success-happiness/" target="_blank">Can’t miss my episode withArthur C. Brooks on Finding Success, Happiness, and Purpose</a></li> <li><a href="https://passionstruck.com/robin-sharma-on-the-8-forms-of-wealth-success/" target="_blank">Listen to my interview with Robin Sharma on the 8 Forms of Wealth That Determine Success</a></li> <li><a href="https://passionstruck.com/the-impact-of-un-mattering-in-our-era/" target="_blank">My solo episode on Fading into Insignificance: The Impact of Un-Mattering in Our Interconnected Era</a></li> </ul><p>If you liked the show, please leave us a review—it only takes a moment and helps us reach more people! Don’t forget to include your Twitter or Instagram handle so we can thank you personally.</p><p>How to Connect with John:</p><p>Connect with John on Twitter at @John_RMiles and on Instagram at @John_R_Miles. Subscribe to our main YouTube Channel <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/JohnRMiles" target="_blank">here</a> and to our YouTube Clips Channel <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@passionstruckclips" target="_blank">here</a>. For more insights and resources, visit <a href="https://johnrmiles.com/" target="_blank">John’s website</a>.</p><p>Want to explore where you stand on the path to becoming Passion Struck? Take our 20-question quiz on <a href="https://passionstruck.com/" target="_blank">Passionstruck.com</a> and find out today!</p><p> </p><p>See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.</p>
Show Notes
We've all been there—pushing, striving, chasing what we think will bring happiness. A bigger salary. A better title. More recognition. But what if the very thing you're running toward is an illusion?
In today's episode, we're breaking down the Mirage of More—the false promise that external success leads to internal fulfillment. We'll explore why we keep chasing things that don't sustain us, how to recognize when you're caught in the cycle, and—most importantly—how to walk away before it's too late.
What You'll Learn in This Episode
✔ Why we're wired to seek "more"—and why it never feels like enough ✔ The psychological trap of achievement (and how to escape it) ✔ The Harvard research that proves success isn't what makes us happy ✔ How to recognize when you're caught in the Mirage of More
Next Episode Preview
Next week, I'm sitting down with Dr. Shige Oishi—one of the world's top researchers on human well-being. We're diving into his new book, Life in Three Dimensions: How Curiosity, Exploration, and Experience Make a Fuller, Better Life. And trust me—this conversation will change the way you think about how you live.
How to Connect with John
- Twitter: @John_RMiles
- Instagram: @John_R_Miles
- Main YouTube Channel
- YouTube Clips Channel
- John's website
Take the Quiz
Want to explore where you stand on the path to becoming Passion Struck? Take our 20-question quiz on Passionstruck.com.
Join the Community
Sign up for the Live Intentionally newsletter for exclusive content, actionable advice, and insights to help you ignite your purpose and live your most intentional life.
Speaking Engagements & Workshops
Are you looking to inspire your team, organization, or audience to take intentional action in their lives and careers? Learn more about keynote speaking, workshops, and leadership training.
Episode Starter Packs
With over 500 episodes, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. We've curated Episode Starter Packs based on key themes like leadership, mental health, and personal growth.
More Episodes on This Topic
- Why We All Crave To Matter: Exploring The Power Of Mattering
- Jennifer B. Wallace on the Consequences of Prioritizing Achievements Over Mattering
- Arthur C. Brooks on Finding Success, Happiness, and Purpose
- Robin Sharma on the 8 Forms of Wealth That Determine Success
- Fading into Insignificance: The Impact of Un-Mattering in Our Interconnected Era
Download the Episode Worksheet
If you found value in this episode, share it with a friend and leave us a review to help spread the message of intentional living. Let's bridge the gap between theory and action and live our lives with purpose!
Raw Description
<p>We’ve all been there—pushing, striving, chasing what we think will bring happiness. A bigger salary. A better title. More recognition. But what if the very thing you’re running toward is an illusion?</p><p>In today’s episode, we’re breaking down the Mirage of More—the false promise that external success leads to internal fulfillment. We’ll explore why we keep chasing things that don’t sustain us, how to recognize when you’re caught in the cycle, and—most importantly—how to walk away before it’s too late.</p><p>Download the Episode Worksheet in the shownotes at: <a href="https://passionstruck.com/the-mirage-of-success-why-more-is-never-enough/" target="_blank">https://passionstruck.com/the-mirage-of-success-why-more-is-never-enough/</a></p><p><strong>What You'll Learn in This Episode</strong></p><p>✔ Why we’re wired to seek "more"—and why it never feels like enough</p><p>✔ The psychological trap of achievement (and how to escape it)</p><p>✔ The Harvard research that proves success isn’t what makes us happy</p><p>✔ How to recognize when you’re caught in the Mirage of More</p><p><strong>Next Episode Preview:</strong> <i>Next week, I’m sitting down with Dr. Shige Oishi—one of the world’s top researchers on human well-being. </i>We’re diving into his new book, <i>Life in Three Dimensions: How Curiosity, Exploration, and Experience Make a Fuller, Better Life.</i> And trust me—this conversation will change the way you think about how you live.</p><p>How to Connect with John:</p><ul> <li>Connect with John on Twitter at @John_RMiles and on Instagram at @John_R_Miles.</li> <li>Subscribe to our main YouTube Channel <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/85feb7a6-7f1a-4066-9a1d-a29e70386613/shows/5ceb52e3-6ac2-4698-82cb-ce8214a5be04/episodes/7d803179-dfdc-4be0-a5e1-0c4ce8dec8ab/#" target="_blank">here</a> and to our YouTube Clips Channel <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/85feb7a6-7f1a-4066-9a1d-a29e70386613/shows/5ceb52e3-6ac2-4698-82cb-ce8214a5be04/episodes/7d803179-dfdc-4be0-a5e1-0c4ce8dec8ab/#" target="_blank">here</a>.</li> <li>For more insights and resources, visit <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/85feb7a6-7f1a-4066-9a1d-a29e70386613/shows/5ceb52e3-6ac2-4698-82cb-ce8214a5be04/episodes/7d803179-dfdc-4be0-a5e1-0c4ce8dec8ab/#" target="_blank">John's website</a>.</li> </ul><p>Want to explore where you stand on the path to becoming Passion Struck? Take our 20-question quiz on <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/85feb7a6-7f1a-4066-9a1d-a29e70386613/shows/5ceb52e3-6ac2-4698-82cb-ce8214a5be04/episodes/7d803179-dfdc-4be0-a5e1-0c4ce8dec8ab/#" target="_blank">Passionstruck.com</a> today!</p><p>If you found value in this episode, share it with a friend and leave us a review to help spread the message of intentional living. Let’s bridge the gap between theory and action and live our lives with purpose!</p><p>Sponsors:</p><ul> <li>Mint Mobile: Cut your wireless bill to 15 bucks a month at “MINT MOBILE dot com slash PASSION.”</li> <li>Hims: Start your journey to regrowing hair with Hims. Get your free online visit at hims.com/PASSIONSTRUCK.</li> <li>Quince: Discover luxury at affordable prices with Quince. Enjoy free shipping and 365-day returns at quince.com/PASSION.</li> <li>Rosetta Stone it's the only way that allows you to Unlock 25 languages for life at “<a href="https://www.rosettastone.com/passionstruck" target="_blank">ROSETTASTONE.com/passionstruck.”</a> </li> <li>Prolon helps you Reset your health with 15% off at <a href="https://prolonlife.com/passionstruck" target="_blank">“ProlonLife.com/passionstruck.”</a> </li> </ul><p>For more information on advertisers and promo codes, visit Passion Struck Deals.</p><p>Join the Passion Struck Community! Sign up for the Live Intentionally newsletter, where I share exclusive content, actionable advice, and insights to help you ignite your purpose and live your most intentional life. Get access to practical exercises, inspiring stories, and tools designed to help you grow. Learn more and sign up <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/85feb7a6-7f1a-4066-9a1d-a29e70386613/shows/5ceb52e3-6ac2-4698-82cb-ce8214a5be04/episodes/7d803179-dfdc-4be0-a5e1-0c4ce8dec8ab/#" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><p>Speaking Engagements & Workshops: Are you looking to inspire your team, organization, or audience to take intentional action in their lives and careers? I’m available for keynote speaking, workshops, and leadership training on topics such as intentional living, resilience, leadership, and personal growth. Let’s work together to create transformational change. Learn more at <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/85feb7a6-7f1a-4066-9a1d-a29e70386613/shows/5ceb52e3-6ac2-4698-82cb-ce8214a5be04/episodes/7d803179-dfdc-4be0-a5e1-0c4ce8dec8ab/#" target="_blank">johnrmiles.com/speaking</a>.</p><p>Episode Starter Packs: With over 500 episodes, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. We’ve curated Episode Starter Packs based on key themes like leadership, mental health, and personal growth, making it easier for you to dive into the topics you care about. Check them out at <a href="https://dashboard.simplecast.com/accounts/85feb7a6-7f1a-4066-9a1d-a29e70386613/shows/5ceb52e3-6ac2-4698-82cb-ce8214a5be04/episodes/7d803179-dfdc-4be0-a5e1-0c4ce8dec8ab/#" target="_blank">passionstruck.com/starterpacks</a>.</p><p>Catch More of Passion Struck:</p><ul> <li> <a href="https://passionstruck.com/exploring-the-power-of-mattering/" target="_blank">Check My solo episode on Why We All Crave To Matter: Exploring The Power Of Mattering</a>.</li> <li><a href="https://passionstruck.com/jennifer-b-wallace-achievements-mattering/" target="_blank">Catch My Episode with Jennifer B. Wallace on the Consequences of Prioritizing Achievements Over Mattering</a></li> <li><a href="https://passionstruck.com/arthur-c-brooks-on-finding-success-happiness/" target="_blank">Can’t miss my episode withArthur C. Brooks on Finding Success, Happiness, and Purpose</a></li> <li><a href="https://passionstruck.com/robin-sharma-on-the-8-forms-of-wealth-success/" target="_blank">Listen to my interview with Robin Sharma on the 8 Forms of Wealth That Determine Success</a></li> <li><a href="https://passionstruck.com/the-impact-of-un-mattering-in-our-era/" target="_blank">My solo episode on Fading into Insignificance: The Impact of Un-Mattering in Our Interconnected Era</a></li> </ul><p>If you liked the show, please leave us a review—it only takes a moment and helps us reach more people! Don’t forget to include your Twitter or Instagram handle so we can thank you personally.</p><p>How to Connect with John:</p><p>Connect with John on Twitter at @John_RMiles and on Instagram at @John_R_Miles. Subscribe to our main YouTube Channel <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/JohnRMiles" target="_blank">here</a> and to our YouTube Clips Channel <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@passionstruckclips" target="_blank">here</a>. For more insights and resources, visit <a href="https://johnrmiles.com/" target="_blank">John’s website</a>.</p><p>Want to explore where you stand on the path to becoming Passion Struck? Take our 20-question quiz on <a href="https://passionstruck.com/" target="_blank">Passionstruck.com</a> and find out today!</p><p> </p><p>See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.</p>