The Complex Relationship Between Success and Bullying: Debunking the Myth

The Surprising Traits of "Successful" People

In a world where competition and survival go hand in hand, it is often believed that certain negative traits like lying, bullying, hypocrisy, exhibitionism, and arrogance are prerequisites for success. However, the truth may be more complex than meets the eye.

The Personality of Success

Some experts argue that successful people possess specific personality traits that drive them to excel. It's not necessarily about being smarter or more capable, but rather about being driven and self-assured, sometimes to an extreme extent. This intense determination can be mistaken for bullying behavior.

For example, imagine someone who is willing to run over someone's dog, send them a bill for car repairs, and turn the neighbors against them, all in the pursuit of their goals. This ruthless nature is often associated with individuals who have reached the pinnacle of success.

The Good vs. Bad Debate

However, not everyone agrees that most successful people are bullies. They argue that good and bad people exist in every aspect of life, including the professional sphere. Success can be achieved through persistence, dedication, networking, or even luck, without resorting to bullying tactics.

In fact, some believe that successful bullies are more apparent because they are loud and draw attention to themselves. On the other hand, many successful individuals who maintain their integrity and treat others well prefer to keep a low profile.

The Price of Success

It is important to acknowledge that the tier of success being referred to often goes hand in hand with bullies. The cutthroat nature of certain industries and environments can breed a culture where bullying behavior is normalized and even rewarded. Non-bullies may struggle in such environments due to moral injury and internal conflict.

However, success can be viewed more objectively. There are plenty of individuals who have achieved professional and personal success without compromising their morality. These individuals prove that being a bully is not a requirement for success.

The Wealthy Paradox

When examining the relationship between success and bullying, it's worth noting that wealth can play a role. One person shares their experience working in luxury hotels and tutoring super-rich kids, revealing that those with a couple of million were generally unpleasant and narcissistic. However, individuals with significant net worth (100 million plus and some billionaires) were often very nice and treated others well.

In this context, building something and maintaining a good reputation are crucial for long-term success. The higher one climbs in the world, the smaller it becomes, and if someone is backstabbed, they and their friends will never work with the perpetrator again.

Politics and the Dark Side

It's important to distinguish politics as an entirely different realm. Behind closed doors, astonishing things are often said about each other. The competitive nature of politics can bring out the worst in people, leading to bullying behavior that is far removed from the norms of everyday professional life.

The Secret to Success?

Anecdotes abound when it comes to the secret to success. Some recall watching an interview with a successful businessperson who claimed that being a bully is the key to success. They argued that firing and laying off people is necessary, and if it bothers someone, they will never go far.

Initially, this claim may have seemed exaggerated, but as perspectives shift, it becomes apparent that success and bullying can be intertwined in certain contexts.

The relationship between success and bullying is complex. While there may be a correlation, it is not a definitive requirement for success. The discussion highlights the existence of both good and bad people in successful positions, emphasizing that success is not solely dependent on being a bully.