I have done better than most in my HS class. I worked hard, kept my nose clean, and took every opportunity that presented itself.
But I did rub elbows with those from a higher social rung that demonstrated very clearly they received preference and breaks that others were not afforded.
At USNA I watched as admirals kids were let off with restriction when others were booted out of school. On active duty saw officers afforded opportunities due to connections for which others were better qualified.
In civilian life I’ve seen similar with internships going to connected kids, promotions to ‘yes men’, and the crappy jobs going to the ones who get things done while the leadership knows he won’t be promoted but only relied on.
I wouldn’t change a thing. I’ve set my kids on a path to success but with an understanding I didn’t have to approach the world with your dreams - and a healthy dose of cynicism. They’ll do better than I.
Sounds like youve lived a healthy realistic life.
I know the life of one who gets things done reliably. I finally got the guts to create my own job, system, rules and company. People who need things done will pay well to have them done over and over well and reliably. Staying in corpocracy is the life of a comfortable, unhappy, unfulfilled lackey.
Yes, good points. I don’t deny that there is seldom a level playing field. I was fortunate to work for a boss who promoted based on merit, not just based on an ivy league pedigree identical to his. For most companies I’ve worked for, those who create wealth for the company are guided to the fast track. Idea men not yes men make it to the top. I wish that was true everywhere