"The Right Desire, the Right Motive": A Reflection on Dr. Bach’s Idea of True Success

Bach Flower Remedies can help you cultivate a healthier, more fulfilling relationship with success

“The right desire, the right motive, no matter what the result, is the thing that counts, the real success." — Dr. Edward Bach

In a world where success is so often measured by materialistic outcomes—wealth, status, recognition— Dr. Edward Bach offers a radically different perspective.

His words invite us to look not at what we achieve, but at why we do what we do. For Dr. Bach, true success isn’t measured by external results—it lies in the purity of our intentions.

At the heart of his message is the belief that living with inner alignment—acting from a place of truth, love, service, and joy—is far more meaningful than chasing any material or visible reward. When our desires stems from our inner self, untainted by outside pressure and are rooted in compassion, when our motives are guided by integrity and a sincere wish to contribute to the greater good, then we are already living successfully, regardless of the outcome.

“Greater things are achieved more by being than by doing”

This perspective is central to Dr. Edward Bach’s holistic approach to healing. 

As the founder of the Bach Flower Remedies System, Dr. Bach believed that emotional and spiritual imbalances are at the root of physical illness. True healing, then, doesn’t start with suppressing symptoms—it begins with a return to our authentic self—a self motivated by love, not fear; by giving, not control.

Redefining success by reconnecting with your inner self can liberate you from external pressures

In daily life, this means letting go of the obsession with "results." It means asking ourselves:

• Is my intention coming from love or ego?

• Am I acting out of fear, pressure, or genuine purpose?

• Would I still choose this path even if no one noticed or praised me?

When we align with right desire and pure motive, we free ourselves from the tyranny of external validation. We come home to a more peaceful, empowered way of being—where each step taken with integrity becomes a step toward true healing.

In the end, Dr. Bach reminds us: we are not here to win in the eyes of the world, but to live in harmony with our soul. That is the real success.

Curious about starting your journey with Bach Flower Remedies to reconnect with your true self and move toward your goals with more balance and joy? Let’s talk!

You can book a consultation with me today at this link

Wishing you all the best on your personal journey toward success,

Elena Maro, BFRP*

Elena Maro is a Film Composer and a Bach Foundation Registered Practitioner dedicated to educating others on the use of Bach Flower Remedies, following the original teachings of Dr. Edward Bach.

*The purpose of this blog is to provide information about Bach Flower Remedies and is not intended as medical, psychological, or counseling advice.