With the amount of competition in today's world there is a finite amount of success one can find. Hard work is a pre-requisite, not the differentiator. In this world luck and talent have noticeable effects on success. Sure if you work harder than someone with talent then you may "beat" or become more successful than them. But if they work hard... well good luck. Everyone thinks hard work is the be all and end all, but it's not. Our lives are determined just as much by chance than our own doing. I'm not saying don't work hard. I'm just saying hard work can't get you anywhere, it takes a little more than that.
@cryptoreports Everyone can't be an Astronaut or Center for the Lakers (for that I agree). I am a realist and I know there are certain examples where most of us are simply screwed. BUUUUUUUUT, I (personally) like to have the mentality that I can achieve anything (even if I know the odds are against me...yes, I lie to myself on purpose). I am not always successful in achieving my goals; however, I am sometimes extremely surprised at some of the progress I make when I apply myself 100% (i.e. I want to be a millionaire by 30. I am currently not a millionaire at 26 and I have a ways to go; however, I did double my income in 2 year). I'll take it! Perhaps this only applies to me personally, but I tend to thrive when I am totally committed and believe I can get what I want. I'll admit, its an aggressive mindset... but that just my style.