Seeing as this topic is pretty much dead I'll necromance it:
Success, as via definition, is a state we are in, whereas the relativity of it depends on subjective judgement. However, one can claim it's related to things like fate or hope, and as such is a state which can be attained in future, or currently being in place. The past only matters when that state is lost, due to whatever circumstances.
Now the question is, what is the success for every single person? Mankind strives for happiness, some others say freedom, or many other things, so the basic idea of success implies acquisition and usage of power. Power as in abilities to do certain things if wanted.