Billionaire Sam Zell: "The 1% work harder."

[badtoworse]

6. There's a lot more to it than that.

The 1% is above my pay grade, but do I know a lot of people who are in the top 5% or so. There are a number of things that they are typically better than average at doing:
1.) They really do have a high work ethic; they do work hard and are respected for their integrity.
2.) They worked hard in school and majored in things for which there is substantial need.
3.) They are disciplined, prudent investors / savers.
4.) They maintain a network of business connections throughout their career.
5.) They have a plan.
6.) They are smart.

Yeah, I know some rich dirtbags and I know some smart people who've been unlucky, but they are exceptions. I believe that people who do the above have an excellent chance at being successful (and well off). Getting hung up with envy will accomplish nothing but preventing you from achieving your own goals.