3. They don’t take calculated risks.
There are two types of risks. Blind risks, where something is done simply to seek thrill or excitement with a potentially long-term disastrous effect; and calculated risks, where there is potential loss, but the upside is great and could be life-changing. I think we can both agree that calculated risks are what we’re aiming for. Smart people often opt for neither, though, because they choose to follow the safe route. They might follow the same path as their peers or choose a career because it’s considered acceptable by everyone else. While there’s a degree of security in doing so, it also means that there’s less chance of achieving great success by branching out.
4. They think they deserve success because of their credentials.
People who worked hard in school frequently have an impressive alma mater, numerous achievements, and high grades. They’re used to being at the top and told about their potential. All these things can feel good, but they also have a detrimental effect. I’ve heard people claim they deserve something because of their intelligence or where they went to school. They expect things to pan out automatically because of their credentials. Sadly, though, life doesn’t work like that.
In the real world, results matter. Getting results means that there is hard work, strategic thinking, and some luck involved. You can increase that last factor by working on the first two.
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