Success vs Happiness

Does success equal happiness? If we're honest with ourselves, it's hard not to believe this idea: that if we're successful, we'll have a happy life, and if we're unsuccessful, we won't be happy. 

Success, as defined by our culture, is often taken to be a stellar career, money, fame and acclaim. But success and happiness are not as closely correlated as you might think. When we achieve success of some sort yes, it does feel good, but typically for just a relatively short time; we usually adapt to, or get over, our successes rather quickly, only to wonder what goal to strive for next. This feeling of 'what next?' might turn up a few days, or sometimes only hours, after achieving a goal. 

Of course, reaching our goals is great, and promotes self-confidence and optimism. But equating success with happiness is erroneous, potentially leading to ubiquitous striving for something more, which is the opposite of happiness's cornerstone - contentment.