As a culture, Americans tend not to
like the idea that the successful among us needed more than talent
and drive to get there. Why is this? It's because it flies in the
face of the American dream: the idea that any of us can achieve
whatever success we like so long as we're willing and able to put
forth the effort. Admitting that luck and circumstance played a role
in making someone like Bill Gates successful means admitting that we
may simply be incapable of achieving the same success, even if we
tried. It narrows our potential, and makes us feel less powerful. It
also means that when we honor the successful, we may be honoring
their advantageous circumstances or good fortune rather than their
inherent virtue. But ultimately, does it matter if we like the
American dream? Or does it matter if it's true?
I feel like the American Dream is bigger outside of America. Growing up I was told to find a backup plans because I probably wouldn't make it to the MBA. The list goes on and on, but I am grateful for the opportunities that we do have. I also do love the fact that we have a competitive market.
ReplyDeleteI agree whole completely that a certain amount of luck is need to make it in this world. Can't this knowledge also provide us more self confidence and hope. Knowing that Bill Gates needed luck to make it big helps bring his perceived skill set down, a little bit closer to ours. Maybe that can give us hope that we too can succeed.
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