How would you respond to this question: Are you successful?
You may respond with how others define success, or base it on whether others think you are successful. You may justify this approach by saying, “well I live among other people, so if they don’t think I am successful then how can I call myself successful.” Alternatively, you may look at your bank account and other assets you own and respond based on how many zeros are behind your net worth.
By so doing you have defined success by external factors – others’ opinions and your net worth.
If you want to live life by your own terms, then judge your success by the contributions you have made, and the fulfillment and happiness you have obtained from doing the work you love.