You don't have to be the CEO of your organization, or even an executive, to feel successful. Perhaps you're an up and coming rookie who's doing a great job, an effective team leader, or simply someone on whom others can consistently count. Perhaps you're earning a high salary, but think again if you believe that in and of itself is a fair measure of your success. I would rather have a solid reputation in my organization and/or industry, although earning big bucks is a definite plus! As you proceed in your career, measure yourself by your own definition of success, not someone else's. Whatever.