Unlocking the Secrets of Success: Why Competence Isn't Enough
Written on
Chapter 1: The Path to Success
Many individuals possess the skills and knowledge necessary for success. You might think that consistently showing up and learning will ultimately lead to significant achievements in your field. However, this belief can be misleading. Achieving and maintaining success relies on a crucial element that not only elevates you to the top but also ensures your longevity there.
The complexity of this subject has intrigued me for years. My experiences in sports, business, and life have all contributed to my understanding of why some individuals excel while others, who may appear equally skilled and dedicated, do not. What differentiates the good from the truly great?
Leadership literature often promotes the notion that success hinges on two primary factors:
- Mastery of your craft is essential—you need to know your field inside and out.
- Building relationships is crucial—you must engage others and get them on board with your vision.
However, the third factor is less straightforward. As Dr. Henry Cloud articulates in his book on integrity, it revolves around the ability to meet reality's demands while possessing the character to avoid self-sabotage.
Section 1.1: Character vs. Personality
Character embodies an individual’s moral and mental attributes—the beliefs and ethical values that steer their actions. In contrast, personality encompasses the diverse aspects of a person, including their emotional, psychological, and social traits as they manifest in behavior.
As a psychologist, I shy away from strict definitions of these terms. Character can feel overly moralistic, while personality is often oversimplified by self-assessment tests. I prefer the concept of "personal psychology," which integrates our biology, personal history, and life experiences to provide a more comprehensive understanding of our thoughts, feelings, and interactions.
This perspective aligns with Cloud's assertion that while our psychology can propel us toward our aspirations, it can also hinder our progress significantly. He identifies three primary ways this can occur:
- Failing to reach your full potential, despite possessing the necessary skills and abilities.
- Being mentally or emotionally overwhelmed by challenging circumstances or individuals, leading to a lack of resilience.
- Engaging in self-destructive behavior upon achieving success, which can result in losing everything you've worked for.
These are hard truths, but they are not insurmountable.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Beginning of Wisdom
Have you observed that certain individuals in the workplace possess an inexplicable quality that inspires others to follow them? This unique trait often propels them upward, while equally talented peers may stagnate due to similar qualities that repel others. Companies that aim to identify future leaders typically assess talent, intelligence, and qualifications. They invest in leadership training but often overlook personal psychology—arguably the strongest indicator of long-term success.
If organizations shifted their focus to helping individuals understand themselves better, nurture their strengths, and address any traits that may hinder their advancement, they would cultivate superior leaders, more satisfied employees, and improved outcomes. Some innovative companies have embraced this approach, and their employees thrive as a result.
As a psychologist, I believe that confronting your true self is one of the most beneficial actions you can take for your future, even if it proves challenging. This involves reflecting on the experiences and influences that have shaped you, recognizing strengths that can assist you, and identifying vulnerabilities that may impede your progress. The work is demanding but essential for growth.
Aristotle wisely stated, “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” He didn’t suggest taking a quick online personality quiz; he advocated for deep introspection and personal growth.
You’ll find immense rewards waiting for you.
“Peel yourself layer by layer. There is an absolutely magnificent person waiting to be discovered.”
— Hiral Nagda
Each fortnight, I share a free newsletter filled with practical psychology insights and strategies for personal growth and performance. Join us!
Chapter 2: Understanding Leadership Dynamics
The first video titled "Why do so many incompetent men become leaders?" by Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic explores the paradox of leadership dynamics and the qualities that often lead to unexpected successes in leadership roles.
Chapter 3: The Hierarchy of Competence
The second video, "Jordan Peterson | Hierarchy of Competence," delves into the structure of competence and how it affects personal and professional success.