When we talk about success and wealth, we often fall back on the same old narratives—good grades, prestigious jobs, climbing the corporate ladder. But what if we’re measuring success all wrong? In Worthwhile Wealth, I challenge these traditional ideas, and in Chapter 3, “Challenging the National Discourse,” I explore how we can redefine success, build businesses that truly make a difference, and create wealth that’s genuinely worthwhile.

Why Our Education System Needs a Rethink

For too long, our education system has pushed students onto a narrow path—a “tramline” mentality that ranks them, pits them against each other, and discourages creativity. I’ve seen time and again how people who didn’t fit this mould, like Richard Branson and Deborah Meaden, went on to achieve extraordinary things. They remind us that success isn’t about ticking the right boxes—it’s about thinking differently, playing to our strengths, and challenging the norm.

Are We Measuring Success the Wrong Way?

When we talk about a country’s success, we almost always point to GDP. But is financial growth really the best measure of progress? GDP ignores critical factors like environmental sustainability, social well-being, and quality of life. Kate Raworth’s Doughnut Economics makes a compelling case for a new model—one that balances economic needs with the health of our planet and our communities. If we want to build a better future, we need to look beyond profit margins.

Why Small Businesses Matter More Than Ever

Big corporations may dominate the headlines, but small businesses are the real changemakers. They’re nimble, adaptable, and often more willing to take risks in ways that big organisations simply can’t. The Covid-19 pandemic proved this—small businesses pivoted overnight to meet new demands. Their resilience is proof that real innovation often comes from the ground up, not the boardroom.

Breaking Free from Class and Hierarchy

Society often tells us that our background determines our future. But I don’t buy into that. Success shouldn’t be reserved for those born into privilege. If we want a fairer, more dynamic economy, we need to break down these outdated hierarchies and empower people from all walks of life to take control of their own futures.

The Truth About Entrepreneurs

There’s a stereotype that entrepreneurs are ruthless, money-obsessed, and cutthroat. In my experience, which couldn’t be further from the truth. The most successful entrepreneurs I’ve met—through the Entrepreneurs’ Forum and beyond—are ethical, trustworthy, and driven by a desire to create value, not just wealth. They care about their employees, their communities, and the impact they have on the world.

Dealing with Critics and Naysayers

If you challenge the status quo, expect pushback. I’ve seen it happen over and over—people resist change, especially when it threatens their way of thinking. But don’t let that stop you. If you have a vision and the determination to see it through, criticism is just part of the journey. Resilience and a willingness to take risks are essential.

Chasing Status vs. Finding Fulfilment

Too many people pursue careers based on what looks good on paper rather than what truly fulfils them. Chasing status for its own sake often leads to dissatisfaction and burnout. Instead, we should focus on work that aligns with our values and brings real satisfaction. That’s where true success lies.

Let’s Redefine Wealth and Success

At the heart of Worthwhile Wealth is a simple idea: wealth isn’t just about money. It’s about creativity, sustainability, and making a real impact. We need to challenge outdated ideas, rethink success, and build businesses that create lasting value—not just for ourselves, but for society as a whole.

So, let’s stop following the script and start writing our own. Who’s with me?