How Cambodians Across Generations Define “Success”

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By:
- Rin Ousa
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January 18, 2025, 7:30 PM
PHNOM PENH — Each generation tends to perceive success it its own way. For younger generations, such as Gen Z, success typically involves career advancement, financial security, and mental health. In contrast, older generations prioritize health and living in the present moment.
Khy Thireach, who recently graduated in banking and finance from the University of Economics and Finance, defines success as achieving a sense of fulfillment and happiness in various aspects of life.
“Working in a field I am passionate about brings me joy and a sense of daily purpose,” she said. “Additionally, maintaining healthy relationships and having a caring family are crucial, as they greatly heighten my mental well-being.
Success also involves being recognized by others for one’s contributions and kindness, and the ability to positively impact the lives of those around us, Thireach said.
“True success is a holistic blend of personal happiness, strong connections, and the freedom to live on my terms,” she added.
Him Meusiet, a book editor and content creator for an Arab NGO, said there are two kinds of success: temporary and eternal.
As a follower of Islam, he said, temporary success is achieved when people receive what they once wished for.
Reflecting on his childhood, Meuseit recalled being bullied at school when he could not articulate clearly.
“I felt down, hearing those hurtful words, and I wished to one day use my voice to inspire others,” he said. “Today, through the video contents posted on my social media platforms, I can motivate my followers
“That is called temporary success,” Meuseit said. Temporary because eternal success lies in the afterlife and can be achieved by living a righteous life and fulfilling religious obligations, he added.
Unlike those of Gen Z, Vann Sovannaphum, who is a 45-year-old engineer based in Phnom Penh, said that, for him, success now revolves around health.
“Since I got married and have children to raise, being healthy has become my priority when considering what success means,” he said. “Definition of success varies depending on my age.
“As a child, success meant being close to my parents and relatives,” Sovannaphum said. When he started attending school, success was about earning top grades in class and passing all the examinations, he said.
After graduating, securing a good job was his success, Sovannaphum said. And over the years, he has been considering that running a stable business would lead him to success, he added.
Meng Panhna, who is a hiking tour guide, believes that success means enjoying the moment as a hiking tour leader, where he can unwind and take weekly vacations—essential to maintaining peace of mind, he said.
Although hiking is not easy, Panha enjoys its benefits to his physical and mental health.
“Physically, we absorb fresh air, detox through sweating, build healthy muscles and a strong immune system,” he said. “Mentally, escaping from society for a long period fosters calmness, productivity, and active thinking.”
Moreover, Panhna said, he has observed that most people now work tirelessly after securing a good job, so their biggest desire is to have a day off to relax. While he does not make much money, he said, those moments bring him the most satisfaction and offer him the most essential opportunities, which many can’t have.
Renowned author Sok Chanphal defines success as discovering and embracing oneself.
“Success is not genuine if it comes with fear,” he said. “True success cannot be defined by external pictures and stories but by internal satisfaction.”
Success comes when people live their way and do not allow others to judge them or dictate their lives, Chanphal explained, stressing the significance of self-recognition and acceptance.
Everyone possesses something unique, he said, but some struggle to find it because they lose themselves, imitate others, or refuse self-acceptance.
Social media may shape people’s perception of success
While definitions of success vary, young people believe that social media influences their perception.
“Scrolling through social media can make some people jealous and lead to comparison to the success of others,” Meusiet said. “However, I have learned that true success is about being satisfied with our lives.”
While some may compare their achievements to the curated lives displayed online, Thireach finds social media a source of inspiration rather than a benchmark.
“Seeing others achieve their goals motivates me to work diligently toward my aspirations,” she said. “Instead of letting comparison drive my self-worth, I focus on the hard work and dedication needed to achieve my dreams.
Leaning towards the importance of work-life balanc
Though people from various generations view success differently, more individuals are increasingly embracing the idea of work-life balance and prioritizing quality of life, ultimately considering it an integral aspect of success.
According to Sovannphum, everyone should live in the moment despite a busy work schedule. “Work is important, but we need to prioritize ourselves by recharging on weekends, spending time with family, and taking vacations.
“Recharging can enhance productivity, contributing to both the quality and quantity of work,” Sovannphum said.
And yet, Thireach values a work environment that keeps her engaged and busy even though she also values quality time with her loved ones and family.
“Achieving a healthy balance between my professional life and personal relationships is key to feeling successful and fulfilled,” Thireach said
Generation Z or Gen Z refers to the group of people who were born in the late 1990s and early 2000s. They are also often called “digital natives,” having grown up surrounded by technology, which has made them incredibly tech-savvy and adaptable to the ever-evolving digital landscape.
