The Evolution of Success – Does Meaning Matter More Than Money | #2 Regenerative Business Series

Welcome to the second blog in my series on regenerative business and the shifting definition of success.

In my work with progressive leaders and changemakers, I hear a recurring theme: traditional models of success no longer fit the world we live in — or the people working in it. And yet, many organisations still operate on outdated ideas rooted in hierarchy, wealth, and status.

Today, I want to explore how success is evolving — and why meaning, wellbeing, and contribution are becoming central to how we define it.

Regenerative Business & The Old Model Of Success

For generations, success has largely been defined as achievement + reward. That might be a promotion, a bigger salary, a corner office, or the title on your LinkedIn profile. We’ve been conditioned to see status and financial gain as proof that we’re doing well.

But when we look more closely, this model starts to crumble.

It often rewards constant overwork, celebrates individualism over community, and rarely considers whether the work is fulfilling, ethical, or sustainable. A regenerative business turns this model on its head. Instead of asking “How much can I extract?” it asks “What can I contribute, and how can I grow while doing it?”

You can read more about my approach to helping clients explore these questions here.

Emerging Generations Are Redefining Success

One of the biggest catalysts for change is generational. Millennials and Gen Z are entering leadership roles, shaping company cultures, and demanding new priorities.

According to the 2022 Deloitte Global Gen Z and Millennial Survey, these generations prioritise purpose, flexibility, and mental health over pay and prestige. In fact, nearly half of Gen Z respondents said they’d turn down a job if it didn’t align with their personal values.

Similarly, Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace 2023 report highlights that younger employees are increasingly disengaged when their roles lack meaning — and deeply invested when they feel their work contributes to a greater purpose.

This shift is also reflected in changing career paths. Research from the Pew Research Center shows that Millennials are more likely to change jobs and careers multiple times, seeking roles that offer growth, autonomy, and alignment with their values.

In short: success is no longer just about money — it’s about meaning.

Regenerative Business & Inclusive Models Of Success

Another key part of this evolution is the rise of more inclusive and culturally diverse definitions of success. The traditional Western lens often equates success with personal wealth and independence. But many non-Western frameworks centre community, care, and contribution.

The African philosophy of Ubuntu — “I am because we are” — places collective wellbeing above individual gain. In Indigenous communities worldwide, success may be defined by how well the group thrives, how land is respected, or how knowledge is shared across generations.

Regenerative businesses draw on these alternative perspectives to build models that honour interdependence. These businesses understand that their success is tied to the health of their people, communities, and ecosystems — not just their bottom line.

When I support clients in this kind of transformation, we often explore new ways of measuring impact, from employee wellbeing to environmental stewardship. You can see how this approach has made a difference for previous clients here.

Emotional & Mental Wellbeing As Measures of Success

Perhaps one of the most powerful shifts happening today is the growing understanding that emotional and mental wellbeing are not separate from success — they’re essential to it.

Studies by the Harvard Business Review show that when employees feel psychologically safe, heard, and supported, engagement and productivity significantly increase. And Mind Share Partners’ 2021 Mental Health at Work Report found that more than 75% of workers want employers to support their mental health.

In regenerative business, we acknowledge that people do their best work when they are resourced, not exhausted. When they feel connected, not isolated. When they can be authentic, not performative.

This requires leaders to rethink what they measure and reward — and to get comfortable with softer, more human indicators of success like trust, empathy, and joy.

It’s Time To Broaden The Definition of Success

As we stand at a turning point in how business is done, we need to ask: Is our definition of success still serving us?

For many, the answer is no.

The regenerative business model expands our lens, embracing a definition of success that is more sustainable, more inclusive, and more fulfilling. It’s about creating environments where people can thrive — not just produce.

If you're ready to reimagine success in your organisation, I’d love to help you explore what that might look like. You can contact me directly here.

Next in the series: Time, Space and Flow – Why Regenerative Business Prioritises Pace Over Pressure.