Meritocracy Vs Luck : Is Success Earned of Given?

Meritocracy vs. Luck: Is Success Earned or Given?

We love the idea of meritocracy—work hard, play smart, and you'll rise to the top. But then there's Lady Luck, also known as Fortuna, the ancient Roman goddess of fortune, often depicted blindfolded or spinning a wheel. Her imagery is deliberate: luck is random, chaotic, and impartial. One day you’re up, the next day you’re down, and none of it necessarily reflects your effort or worth.

But does that mean we’re all just at the mercy of fate? Or does hard work dictate success? The answer isn’t as simple as one or the other.

The Case for Hard Work

Meritocracy argues that effort, skill, and intelligence determine success. And sure, in many cases, the people at the top have worked relentlessly to get there. You don’t build a business, master a craft, or become elite in anything without grinding. Discipline, resilience, and strategy all play a major role.

But if hard work alone dictated success, then every janitor working two jobs should be a millionaire, and every Wall Street CEO should be a genius. That’s not how it plays out. So where does luck fit in?

The Role of Luck

Luck is real, and it’s powerful. Where you’re born, the people you meet, the timing of your efforts—these are all outside your control. Lady Luck has blessed some with rich parents, influential mentors, or a well-timed opportunity. Others? Not so much.

Even within meritocracy, luck determines who gets the right chance to prove their talent. You could be the hardest-working person in your field, but if no one sees it, if the right door never opens, if one setback derails you before takeoff—you don’t win.

So, Is It All Just Luck?

No, because luck alone doesn’t sustain success. Lotto winners go broke, trust fund kids squander wealth, and one-hit wonders disappear. Hard work amplifies luck. When a lucky break happens, those who have put in the effort are ready to capitalize on it.

Finding the Balance

Here’s the truth: life isn’t fair, but it isn’t hopeless either. Hard work won’t always pay off immediately, and luck won’t always be on your side. But rather than feeling like a failure when effort isn’t rewarded right away, remember that luck may still have a play in this. Stay consistent, stay in the game, and be prepared for when Fortuna spins the wheel in your favor.

Want to increase your odds? Join the community and level up in all areas of life—finance, discipline, strategy, and mindset. Success isn’t just about hard work or luck. It’s about playing the game right.