Arete can be represent selfishness and too self involve if you try to define success in terms of winning out over others, having power over others, or the ability to dominate others. The lust for power is common and widespread in humans—the power to order others around, the power to make decisions that will impact others, and the power to own when others cannot. This type of happiness and influence is short-lived. It will always fade.
However, those who pursue arete with love and give generously find a type of fulfillment that extends beyond position, title, or structure. They find an authority that reaches into our heart and soul. Their example is studied. Their counsel is sought. Their stories are told in positive ways. And their happiness is truly lasting.
I think pursuing Arete as a guiding philosophy of life is a board concept. Pursing Arete can be same as pursing pleasure depending on how you use Arete and the knowlege you insert on it.
I like the idea of bringing the idea of motives and goals into the question, but the question is less about life-goals and more about life-living. When you go to do something, how well should you do it? That's the question arete puts on the table. Should I worry about generosity when I'm trying to be the best architect I can be?
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