Recently two famous, successful, well respected entrepreneurs killed themselves. Considering these tragedies, I find myself reflecting on the commonly accepted version of success we absorb as we observe the achievements of other entrepreneurs, those who have “made it”.

By all accounts Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain had succeeded in the ways many emerging entrepreneurs hope to succeed. Yet they felt despair so deep and intense they chose to end their lives.

How can this be?

Is it possible that the widely touted version of success does not make people happy?

Martin Seligman and the Institute for Positive Psychology have studied what it takes for people to become truly and sustainably happy and not just happy in a given moment. They discovered that lasting happiness actually comes from:

• Enjoying and being challenged by the work you do
• Having close relationships with family and friends
• Having good health
• Having a positive and optimistic outlook on life
• Having a strong belief in yourself

None of these lasting characteristics of happiness requires a large amount of cash, an investment portfolio or world-wide fame. Having close, hopefully respectful, relationships with your family and friends brings happiness. Having the respect of the rest of the world is optional and may require too much personal sacrifice to be worthwhile.

As you go about designing and building your business, consider the cost to your ability to optimize your meaningful relationships and your health. Be aware of the level of challenge you experience in your business and seek a solution if and when the challenge begins to deteriorate your optimistic outlook on life and/or your belief in yourself.

Your and your business are not the same. Build your business but protect its most valuable asset – you and your happiness.