• Is success a result of luck?

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    Success can be influenced significantly by luck, but it often interacts with various other factors like strategy, circumstances, and personal effort. For instance, Scott Young discusses how part of achieving significant success can hinge on being in "fertile territory" and taking unique approaches that others aren't considering, thus making one stand out due to a combination of strategic choices and luck 1.

    Similarly, Byrne Hobart reflects on how success can come from repeatedly responding well to circumstances. He suggests that whether someone has a consistent strategy or is just responding to situations as they arise, luck plays a substantial role in the outcomes 2.

    Ananyo Bhattacharya highlights how historical figures like John von Neumann benefited from a combination of immense talent, the right timing, and favorable conditions, which facilitated their extraordinary contributions and success 3.

    Thus, while individual talent and decisions are crucial, luck often significantly shapes the path to success. This blend of effort and chance impacts the realized achievements and the magnitude of success experienced by individuals.

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