The Myth of "Choice Over Effort"
The idea that choosing the right path is more important than hard work is a widespread but misleading notion in the adult world. This narrative suggests that success comes from simply selecting the correct "track" and then effortlessly becoming wealthy. While some argue that hard work will always lead to success, others counter that being in the right place at the right time is all that matters. However, many find that neither of these ideas guarantees success in practice.
This article aims to debunk the oversimplified idea that choice alone determines success. The reality is that choice and effort are interconnected and mutually reinforcing.
The Hedgehog and the Fox: Two Approaches
Historian John Lewis Gaddis, in his book "On Grand Strategy," categorized individuals facing uncertain futures into two types: the hedgehog and the fox. He suggests that those who rigidly adhere to one type will eventually be left behind.
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Hedgehog Strategists: These individuals are like hedgehogs, focused on a single, core goal. They are deeply committed, consistently working towards their objective and demonstrating the power of perseverance.
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Fox Strategists: These individuals are like foxes, known for their intelligence and adaptability. They possess keen insight and adjust their strategies based on changing circumstances, utilizing various approaches.
Truly successful individuals find a balance between these two approaches, combining the hedgehog's focus with the fox's agility.
Why We Believe the "Choice Over Effort" Lie
The appeal of the "choice over effort" narrative stems from both cognitive biases and underlying psychological needs. It provides an escape from the discomfort of confronting a lack of effort. We fear failure, but the thought of failing due to insufficient effort is even more painful.
Many people prefer to believe they chose the wrong path rather than admit they didn't work hard enough. This is because attributing failure to luck protects their self-esteem, while attributing it to themselves brings shame. Consequently, many are drawn to online schemes promising quick riches, even if they seem unrealistic. This provides a false sense of progress and avoids admitting a lack of real effort.
Effort: The Foundation of Success
The truth is that success is usually earned through preparation and hard work. For example, Li Jiaqi, a popular livestreamer, initially broadcasted for many hours each day, testing hundreds of lipsticks. Despite his efforts, his audience remained small. It was only when short-form video and e-commerce became popular that his accumulated experience enabled him to reach the top. However, people may still see his success as effortless.
Even figures like Xiaomi founder Lei Jun, who famously stated that "standing in the wind, even a pig can fly," demonstrate immense dedication. In the early days of his career, he worked incredibly long hours to compete with Microsoft. This commitment to hard work is often overlooked when considering the role of "choice" in success. Most people don't put in that kind of effort. Overtaking them often just means working harder than they do.
The Role of Greed and Get-Rich-Quick Schemes
Our inherent greed makes us susceptible to the allure of shortcuts. In challenging economic times, many seek rapid wealth accumulation, leading to a proliferation of schemes promising quick profits. These "choices" are often driven by impulsive greed rather than strategic judgment.
People are easily swayed by get-rich-quick schemes, even if they suspect they might be scams. This is because the potential reward outweighs the perceived risk. However, this mindset is similar to that of a gambler. This constant pursuit of false hope consumes valuable time and energy. The true path to wealth involves consistent effort and careful management.
The Reality of Competitive Markets
While entering a potentially lucrative market like electric vehicles might seem like a strategic choice, it doesn't guarantee success. The Chinese market has seen numerous electric vehicle companies fail due to intense competition and reliance on government subsidies rather than innovation. Ultimately, companies must adapt and innovate to survive.
A Practical Strategy for Success: The "Fox-Hedgehog" Approach
For the average person, the key to success lies in a practical approach that combines the hedgehog's focus with the fox's adaptability. This involves a four-step process and a long-term perspective:
- Explore with 10%: Dedicate 10% of your time or resources to exploring new directions or skills, such as learning AI tools or trying out different side projects. This allows for low-risk experimentation and discovery.
- Balance Abilities and Goals: Set a long-term goal and compare your current abilities and resources to what's needed to achieve it. Identify the gaps and create a plan to address them.
- Constant Feedback and Adjustments: Continuously record and analyze the results of your efforts, identifying areas for improvement. Treat each experience as a chance to refine your approach.
- Regular Review and Reflection: Regularly review past efforts and results to identify patterns, assess progress, and adjust your future strategy accordingly.
This iterative process allows you to gradually discover the right path for yourself, building a strategy that is both focused and adaptable.
Overcoming Obstacles and Embracing Growth
A true strategist needs both direction and the ability to avoid pitfalls. Obstacles are inevitable, but overcoming them leads to personal growth and new opportunities. The key is to persevere, adapt, and learn from each challenge. Success is not simply about choosing the right path; it's about continuously adapting, reflecting, and adjusting along the way.