1. Introduction to Achievement

The desire to achieve, to outperform, and to excel—these are driving forces behind many human endeavors. But what is it about achievement that resonates so deeply within us? From ancient civilizations to modern societies, achievement as a core value has been celebrated and sought after, influencing both individual pursuits and collective endeavors.

2. Psychological Underpinnings

Shalom Schwartz's Basic Human Values Theory suggests that achievement is one of the ten core values that guide our behaviors and decisions (Schwartz, 1992). It operates on the belief of personal success through demonstrating competence according to social standards. But beyond Schwartz's theory, the Self-Determination Theory also sheds light on achievement, emphasizing the importance of autonomy, competence, and relatedness in motivating individuals to achieve (Deci & Ryan, 2000).

3. Achievement in Real-life Scenarios

Real-world examples of achievement can be seen in various domains. Consider the world of sports. Athletes train for years, dedicating countless hours to perfecting their skills, driven by the desire to achieve—to win medals, break records, or simply to be the best in their field. In academia, students pour over books and engage in research to achieve top grades, earn scholarships, or make groundbreaking discoveries. Entrepreneurs and business leaders strive to achieve milestones, be it in sales, innovation, or expanding their enterprises.

4. The Interplay with Other Values

Achievement doesn't stand alone. It often interacts with other values, molding our holistic view of success. For instance, the value of "power," as defined by Schwartz and Cieciuch, could bolster the desire for achievement by emphasizing social status and prestige (Schwartz & Cieciuch, 2022). On the other hand, values like "benevolence" or "universalism" might guide individuals to seek achievements that benefit others or the greater good (Schwartz, 2006).

"Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful." - Albert Schweitzer

5. Conclusion: Harnessing Achievement in Personal Growth

Recognizing the power of achievement and its influence on our actions can be transformative. By aligning our goals with our values, we pave the way for genuine, fulfilling success. Moreover, understanding where the value of achievement sits in your personal value hierarchy can be enlightening. By taking our personality assessment based on the PVQ-R, you can delve deeper