Elitism, Intelligence, and the Path to Success

Perceptions of intelligence and the path to success often lead to disagreements and misunderstandings. Many believe that, due to their own hard work and dedication, others must either be less intelligent or lack the commitment necessary to achieve success. However, these beliefs can sometimes stem from elitist thinking, a mindset that holds that some people are innately superior to others. It's crucial to understand the nuanced reasons behind these perceptions and how they can be addressed.

Recognizing Different Levels of Intelligence and Commitment

The article begins by stating, "No you are not an elitist for thinking that most people are stupid." This reveals a fundamental misunderstanding. While recognizing different levels of intelligence and commitment is crucial, equating such differences with being stupid can indeed foster an elitist mentality. It is important to understand that people have different life experiences and different capacities for handling various challenges.

For instance, the statement, "You worked while going to school, became an entrepreneur and now are married and in good health," highlights a particular journey and set of circumstances. This could be seen as a testament to the importance of commitment and hard work, but labeling others as "stupid" because they didn't follow the same path is neither fair nor constructive. The author of the original article admits that they also worked through college, showing that this path is not exclusive to those who view others as lacking.

The Value of Non-Ideal Circumstances

Certain life circumstances, such as working while attending school, can significantly challenge one's fortitude and time management skills. As the original post mentions, "That portion would sort of describe me in that I also went to night school while working full time USAF and graduated debt free." This experience demonstrates a unique form of intelligence and commitment, showing that success can be achieved under less-than-ideal circumstances. Such experiences can be immensely valuable and should be celebrated rather than dismissed as weakness.

Defining Success

Success is a subjective measure, and defining it in terms of comparison to others can be misleading. The statement, "Commitment and hard work are essential elements to success," is certainly true. However, success is also deeply personal and can involve finding contentment in one's own journey rather than striving to outshine others. The author highlights how some people might lose their inheritance due to a lack of drive or management skills, emphasizing the importance of resilience and adaptability.

The Value of Humility and Respect

In the face of these challenges, it is important to approach others with humility and respect. The original post suggests, "People also have different circumstances." This is a vital reminder. For instance, military service, such as the author's service in the USAF, can present unique obstacles that necessitate adaptation and resilience. These experiences, while challenging, can be invaluable in shaping one's perspective and approach to life.

Moreover, the article emphasizes, "Its one thing to get a degree when in ideal circumstances. Its another to get the same education when you just got off your shift and then head to school for another four hours." This highlights the resilience and dedication required in non-ideal circumstances and underscores the value of these experiences over simply dismissing others as "stupid."

The Power of Respect Over Self-Proclamation

Finally, the article concludes with the importance of treating others with respect and humility. The author notes, "At the end of the day, it far better for other people to think you are a genius than to proclaim it yourself." This advice is crucial. While it's natural to feel proud of one's achievements, it's often more effective to let one's actions speak for themselves rather than relying on self-aggrandizement.

Understanding Unintended Consequences

Lastly, the article discusses how someone might not realize the unintended consequences of their actions, such as in engineering. The original post suggests, "What didn't you realize would be an unintended consequence of being an engineer." This points to the idea that certain positions or skills can come with unintended challenges or expectations. Recognizing and addressing these can lead to a more balanced and empathetic approach to achievement and success.

In conclusion, the journey to success is nuanced and multifaceted. Recognizing different life experiences, respecting individual circumstances, and approaching others with humility can foster a more inclusive and productive environment. By understanding these nuances, we can strive for a society where everyone is valued and respected, regardless of the path they have taken.