Myths of Success

I read a lot of business books and magazines which devote much space to profiles of successful business leaders. The implicit subtitle is always, “Do what this guy did and you can have what he has.” That is such a load of crap. There are just so many variables at play. The exact same steps can never be replicated with precisely the same outcome because of changing economics, demographics, consumer desire and mood, ad nauseum.

Adding to the irritation is the usual statement by the CEO being profiled that his success is mostly due to being in the right place at the right time. While there’s no doubt that a certain amount of luck is helpful; successful people have a tendency to create their own luck – they keep their eyes open to opportunities and are pretty good at applying their skills in unique ways to create additional value. The thought that it’s all owed to luck really cheapens the work and energy that went into the endeavor.

You can be successful, too, and luck – or the lack thereof – is a really lame excuse for inaction. There is no playbook. You have to figure things out. It’s hard. Go get started.