[mistermann]

As an absolute, binary statement, yes, because it is not always true, not even close.

Hard work is only one component of success. Physical attractiveness and charisma are often at least as important, even though logically they seem irrelevant. Dealing successfully with humans is often not terribly intuitive.

[kaolti]

I don't think anyone is saying they are irrelevant, nothing is black and white. For practical purposes however, hard work does lead to success.

[alain94040]

I can think of plenty of people who work way harder than me, and have clearly no path to ever being successful (financially).

[frgtpsswrdlame]

You've never known a hard-working person who wasn't successful?

[steaknsteak]

It's moreso that the inverse is true. Not working hard will almost certainly not lead to success (unless your family is rich enough to where you can just "buy" more success). Working hard will not necessarily lead to success, but it's a prerequisite. The amount of work required also depends on what obstacles you're born with and degree of success is desired

[Lewton]

I’ve never worked hard in my life and I earn more than my (hard working) parents combined

[s73v3r_]

Careful when making that statement that you don't fall into the trap of believing that only physical labor counts as "hard work".

[magic_beans]

Front-end engineers who build widgets in React can make a $120,000 salary if they market themselves correctly.

Not all software work is hard work.

[kaolti]

Thanks, that's what I was trying to say lol.

I don't think anyone is arguing that there aren't any other factors or that this justifies not helping less fortunate people.

[mistermann]

Except for when it doesn't, which is the point.