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If you think intelligence alone can get you there, you're about to be in a world of pain down the road.
The world average median income seems to be about $10,000.
and I guess you are risk-averse and try to behave predictable the entire life to not loose that smartness badge in some crazy venture. Following the safest path won't let you step on the edge to reach something unknown.
Most people overestimate their own intelligence. The majority of people think they are smarter than average.
> I am smart. I know I'm smart, I am told that I am smart, I do smart things... and I guess you are risk-averse and try to behave predictable the entire life to not loose that smartness badge in some crazy venture. Following the safest path won't let you step on the edge to reach something unknown.
You nailed it!
Smarts gets you to be upper middle class. Taking on a lot of risk, pushing yourself to the limit gets you to be rich.
Realistically being born rich get you to be rich. But I agree that the main thing separating an employee from a founder is that one actually started a business. I disagree about the whole pushing yourself to the limit thing however. If you found a business or try to build a career, you are in it for the long haul. Sustained effort is what you need. Generally when I see people complain about things they haven't achiev…
I rather think being born rich gives you a different risk tolerance and that raises your chance of becoming rich(er).
Look around you all the self-made titans have built their wealth over decades. They decided where they could best make an impact and they made a plan and followed through relentlessly. We see the result but we don't see the sleepless days, the never-ending meetings, the ability to stay focused and on and on, not just for days or weeks but for years. Also, you need to lead many people to the same goal. Do you that successfully and you'll be rewarded with lots of money.
Most people burn out early, even if they are motivated, or can't get others to follow.
Smarts is only a small part of the solution.
Example: Let's say you come up with the greatest solution to a problem but if you are the only one that knows it then it has no value to anyone. You have to let people know through the creation of an organization. And you have to convince them that it really is a great solution that they need to use.