For Chatri Sityodtong, the founder and CEO of ONE Championship, success has never been about accumulating wealth or living a life of luxury. Instead, it’s about finding joy in the simple, meaningful things in life.
“When I look back at my life, money has never been the source of my happiness or the most important thing,” Sityodtong shares. “My happiness comes from love, doing what I love, my family, my friends, my colleagues, my time training in martial arts.”
While he’s grateful for his financial freedom, Sityodtong doesn’t indulge in material excess. “I only have one car, I wear cheap T-shirts, and I have a Casio G-Shock. I don’t have many material things. I don’t buy things. I don’t shop—that doesn’t give me joy or happiness.”
For Sityodtong, happiness comes from experiences and connections, not possessions. “Joy and happiness to me is being with my family or being with my friends, going to One Championship events, or meeting a fan,” he says. “When we change someone’s life in a positive way—that’s happiness for me.”
This philosophy shapes not just his personal life, but also the way he runs ONE Championship. His desire to bring happiness to others, whether through his team, athletes, or fans, is a core part of his mission. “I like bringing happiness to others,” he says. “Whether it’s my team or my athletes, knowing that ONE Championship is helping them unleash their potential in life.”
By choosing simplicity over luxury, Sityodtong has cultivated a lifestyle centered around purpose and fulfillment. It’s not about accumulating wealth or status; it’s about making a meaningful impact on those around him.
The takeaway:
For Chatri Sityodtong, true success isn’t defined by material wealth — it’s about living simply, focusing on meaningful relationships, and using your success to positively impact others. By embracing this mindset, he’s found more joy and fulfillment than luxury could ever offer.
This article includes quotes from an interview originally published by Esquire Philippines, authored by Henry Ong.
