Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
Time management is essential for a ________ life and career.

Contextually, time management is a positive trait that contributes to achieving desirable goals. Therefore, it is essential for a successful life and career.
Failed implies a negative outcome.

Scrupulous means diligent and thorough. While positive, it does not fit standard usage as an attribute for life/career compared to "successful".

Mere means nothing more than.