There are a lot of images that shape the perspective of money as an indicator to success. However, personally, I disagree with that perspective because I think that definition of success is different for everyone. At the core, I think people are successful by finding their purpose in life and live their life to serve for that purpose.
When we were kids, we used to have a lot of dreams. When the adults asked us what our dreams were, we answered we wanted to become a doctor, an astronaut, a police officer, etc. but growing up, we often forget our dreams and start to get lost in our daily routine. I think people who can still manage to follow their goals, despite age, in life are the happiest people. Mainly because they have found their purpose in life, it is the hardest thing and not everyone is lucky enough to find it. The next thing to do is the easy part, they just have to continue serving for that purpose. Some people may find it purposeful to travel the world and meet new people, having random conversations that fulfill their hearts. Some people may find it peaceful to serve the community, giving hands to people in need. Some may think their existence would be useful if they can contribute to science and technology advancement by doing research or teaching. These are all successful people, even though their indicator of success is not about money.
However, I realize that many measure success by money. In the light of growing use of social media and the internet, many use their platform to show off their lifestyle that requires a lot of money. They get happy if they can buy the new iPhone release, or try out food from the 5-star restaurant, driving fast cars, live in a mansion, and so on. This could inspire other people to create an image where success is determined by the amount of money they have. To a certain extent, I believe that money can buy us a comfortable life, and it is not achievable for everyone. But living comfortably and living happily are definitely two different things.
In conclusion, I think that success is different for everyone. Personally I think success is bigger than money, it is about completing my life purpose and being happy in life. However, I can agree if people measure success by money, because many desire convenience in life, and it can only be bought by money.