By way of introduction, Andreas Jones is a recognized authority in personal finance and frugal living. As the founder of KindaFrugal.com, an online educational platform and blog, he has dedicated himself to helping individuals achieve financial stability. He is also the author of Financial Dignity and the creator of the Well and Wealthy newsletter.
Thank you for taking the time to speak with us on this important topic. Our readers would love to know more about you. Could you share one or two key experiences that have shaped who you are today?
Andreas Jones: It’s a pleasure to be here! One experience that truly shaped me was my first job as a barista during college. Initially, I thought my role was just about making coffee, but I quickly realized it was about human connection. I learned to read people’s emotions, anticipate their needs, and find simple ways to bring joy to their day. That experience taught me that success isn’t just about personal achievements but also about the positive impact we have on others. That lesson still influences my approach to life and work today.
We all hold certain myths about success. Were there any that you once believed?
Andreas Jones: I used to think success was a straight path—study hard, get a great job, and climb the corporate ladder. But life isn’t so linear. It’s filled with unexpected twists and turns. Some of the biggest challenges I faced ultimately led to my most significant growth. I’ve come to understand that success is more about resilience—the ability to adapt and push forward, even when the way ahead is unclear.
How has your definition of success evolved over time?
Andreas Jones: My view on success has changed entirely. In the past, I measured it by external factors like job titles, income, and recognition. But after experiencing burnout a few years ago, I had to reassess my priorities. Now, success is about impact and fulfillment. Am I making a difference? Do I feel energized by my work? Can I be present for my loved ones? These are the things that define success for me today. It’s no longer about what I achieve, but who I become in the process.
The pandemic prompted a period of deep self-reflection for many. What societal changes do you think are necessary for redefining success in the post-pandemic era?
Andreas Jones: The pandemic was like a global reset button, forcing us to reevaluate our priorities. I believe we need to move toward a version of success that prioritizes well-being, flexibility, and meaningful connections. That means investing more in mental health, offering better work-life balance through remote work, and strengthening community ties. I’ve seen firsthand how flexible work arrangements have allowed parents to spend more time with their families. If we build on these changes, we can create a society where success is about thriving rather than merely surviving.
What unexpected positives came out of the pandemic? We’d love to hear some personal experiences!
Andreas Jones: While the pandemic was undeniably difficult, it also highlighted some surprising benefits. Personally, it helped me rediscover simple joys—like cooking, something I’d always been too busy for. I also started a virtual book club with friends from different states, which brought us closer despite the physical distance. More broadly, I witnessed communities coming together, neighbors supporting one another, and people finding the courage to pursue long-forgotten passions. The pandemic reminded us of what truly matters.
Could you share five actionable ways people can redefine success today?
Andreas Jones: Absolutely! Here are five key shifts that have helped me reshape my perspective on success:
- Prioritize personal growth over external validation – Instead of focusing on external rewards, measure success by how much you’ve grown. I started evaluating my success based on new skills learned rather than job promotions.
- View failure as a learning opportunity – Every setback carries a lesson. When my first business venture failed, it forced me to develop resilience and adaptability—skills that later proved invaluable.
- Measure success by your impact – Ask yourself, How am I making a difference? I found that mentoring young professionals brought me more fulfillment than merely chasing financial goals.
- Balance ambition with well-being – Success shouldn’t come at the expense of your health or relationships. I now dedicate time each day to unplugging and reconnecting with family.
- Practice gratitude daily – Acknowledging what you already have can transform your perspective on success. Each morning, I jot down three things I’m grateful for, and it has dramatically improved my outlook on life.
How would our lives improve if we embraced a new definition of success?
Andreas Jones: If we shifted our perspective on success, we’d see profound changes in our well-being. We’d have lower stress, stronger relationships, and greater job satisfaction. Innovation would flourish because people wouldn’t be paralyzed by fear of failure. In my own life, redefining success has brought more meaningful work, deeper friendships, and a greater sense of peace. When we focus on fulfillment rather than status, we create lives that are truly rewarding.
What is the biggest obstacle to redefining success, and how can we overcome it?
Andreas Jones: The greatest challenge is often unlearning societal expectations. We are constantly fed messages about what success should look like—expensive possessions, high salaries, prestigious titles. The key to overcoming this is self-awareness. Ask yourself, Is this truly what I want, or is it just what I’ve been conditioned to want? Then, surround yourself with people who support your new vision of success.
I remember when I left a high-paying corporate job to start my own business. Many people questioned my decision, but I knew it aligned with my values—doing meaningful work while having more time for my family. By staying true to what mattered most, I was able to push past doubt and build a life that feels genuinely successful.
Where do you turn for guidance and insight on redefining success?
Andreas Jones: I find inspiration in many places. Books have been a huge influence—works like Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl and Atomic Habits by James Clear offer incredible perspectives. I also enjoy podcasts that explore unconventional success stories, like How I Built This.
Beyond that, I seek out conversations with people from different backgrounds—artists, educators, entrepreneurs—because their perspectives challenge my own views and expand my understanding of success. Ultimately, the best inspiration comes from self-reflection and staying open to new experiences.
If you could have a private breakfast or lunch with anyone, who would it be and why?
Andreas Jones: I’d love to sit down with Yvon Chouinard, the founder of Patagonia. He built a highly successful company while staying committed to environmental responsibility and employee well-being. He’s proven that business success and ethical values can coexist. I’d love to discuss how individuals, even those outside of corporate leadership, can apply these principles in their own lives to create meaningful change.
You can find me at www.WellandWealthy.org, www.KindaFrugal.com, and www.Instagram.com/kindafrugal.
Final Thoughts
Thank you for sharing your incredible insights with us! We appreciate your time and wish you continued success and good health.
Other Articles
Transformative Leadership: Mastering Change
Boost Workplace Ethics with Corporate Ethics Training
