I want to express my gratitude to Marina for making this beautiful gown for me, inspired by the Government College uniform. Behind me is Marina, home to one of the biggest brotherhoods in the world.
Today, I want to explore a thought-provoking question: Why are many brilliant, talented, and intelligent people not very successful? Many academically gifted individuals find themselves dissatisfied with their lives, their income, and their work conditions. But why does this happen?
The Complexity of Success
Success is a difficult concept to define. There is no universal success meter. One can be successful in marriage but struggle in business. Another may raise wonderful children but not achieve academic recognition. Success is multifaceted and generational—it is about meeting the expectations of one’s time. What was considered successful in the past might not hold the same value today.
For instance, someone who excelled at using a typewriter in the past might struggle with computer literacy today. Success, therefore, is about adapting to changing times and meeting societal expectations.
Why Brilliant People Struggle with Success
Different Value Systems
Many brilliant people have different priorities. They may prefer a modest life—living quietly, reading books, and going to church—over pursuing wealth and status. To outsiders, they may seem unsuccessful, but they find contentment in their values. As the Bible says, Godliness with contentment is great gain.Lack of Social Intelligence
Many intelligent people struggle with social intelligence. They are often:Reclusive: They prefer to stay in their intellectual circles and avoid networking with people outside their group.
Dismissive: They downplay material success, questioning why people pay for luxury items like first-class flights or expensive cars.
Rigid and Opinionated: Once they form an opinion, they find it difficult to change, making them inflexible and hard to work with.
Poor at Building Networks: Success often comes from connections. A few well-placed phone calls can change a situation, but many intelligent people fail to cultivate these networks.
They Struggle with Valuing Themselves
Talented people often get their ideas easily—writing, painting, problem-solving—and do not always know how to price their skills. Because their gifts come naturally, they fail to demand what they are worth. For instance, I once quoted my speaking fee to a politician who tried to negotiate. I refused to lower my price, and in the end, she agreed to my terms. If you do not set your value, people will take advantage of you.Idealism and Arrogance
Many intellectuals are too idealistic, refusing to face reality. They underestimate how the world works and fail to adapt. Some get involved with people who do not value their knowledge, leading to frustration. If you present intellectual material to someone who does not appreciate it, it is like singing to a deaf man—you sweat for nothing.Fear of Criticism and Failure
Because they overanalyze everything, they fear failure and criticism. This fear holds them back from taking bold steps and seizing opportunities.Long-Distance Tunneling Syndrome
Many intelligent people spend years pursuing academic or professional goals, only to emerge and find that those who ventured into business or entrepreneurship have gone far ahead financially. A professor may dedicate years to earning a PhD and a prestigious title, only to find that a businessman selling tires or running a school has far surpassed him in wealth and influence.Failure to Separate Passion from Functionality
Enjoying what you do is important, but it should not blind you to the business side of it. A gospel artist or footballer gets paid for their talent; likewise, a speaker or consultant should charge for their expertise. I have learned not to give away all my knowledge in one sitting—if you make yourself too available, your value diminishes.
Final Thoughts
Many brilliant people end up being employed or misused by those less intelligent than them. I have seen professors get into trouble for working under corrupt politicians, despite their academic superiority. If you do not take charge of your value and position yourself strategically, you will be controlled by those who do.
As I conclude, I encourage you to reflect on these insights. Share this post with your friends, children, and colleagues. Remember to subscribe to my platform for more valuable lessons.
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God bless you!
