Back in July 2009, during the height of the Global Financial Crisis, I left my finance job. I was overwhelmed with worry about losing everything and felt a compelling need to assess why some people thrive while others falter. This period of uncertainty made me wonder if successful people simply try harder.
Having spent a decade in the fiercely competitive finance sector, one thing was clear: individuals with Type A personalities often succeed, while Type Z personalities tend to disappear into the background. For instance, consider Bob, a diligent worker worth over $10 million by age 50. He starts his day at 7 a.m., earlier than the usual 8 a.m., and is always the last to leave around 8:30 p.m. Nancy, a mother of two, also follows a similar routine. Their dedication aligns with their status as the most senior and successful individuals in our office.
Then there’s Tim, a 24-year-old who always arrived late and rushed out the door right at 5 p.m. He lacked dedication and felt entitled to rewards without putting in significant effort, leading to his dismissal after just 18 months.
This brings up a question: does every generation view the next as lazier? It often seems that way, especially if the younger generation doesn’t uphold the same values, which feels disrespectful to their elders.
Hard work isn’t just about showing up; it’s about adding value, demonstrating efficiency, and sometimes, a bit of natural talent. Consider the high school “nerd” who studied relentlessly, attended a top university, and became a well-paid doctor by 30. This isn’t just a stroke of luck but a testament to the power of hard work.
Here are my top tips for career advancement:
1. Show up early and stay late, especially during your first year. Managers notice these things and it sets a tone for your work ethic.
2. Align yourself with rising stars in the company. These individuals often have a strong network and can pull you up along with them.
3. Never whine. Complaining is a major turn-off in any professional setting. Instead, focus on solutions and resilience.
4. Engage in managing up. Understand your manager’s goals and help them succeed, which in turn helps you.
5. Build a supportive network. In challenging times, having a strong internal network can protect you from layoffs.
The idea that “the harder I work, the luckier I get” really resonates with me. As I navigate raising two young children without a conventional day job, I am reminded daily that effort and perseverance are critical.
Rich people do not leave wealth to chance; they are meticulous about managing their finances and invest strategically, often taking advantage of powerful platforms to monitor investments and reduce fees. By understanding and applying these principles, you too can enhance your financial well-being.
So, do rich people try harder? It seems they do, especially when it comes to managing and growing their wealth.
