[reeses]

The "luck" over the long term is, as you say, more than just the equivalent of finding a quarter on the street.

Nearly everyone I've observed with long-term "luck" has been mostly successful at recognizing and acting on opportunities.

The a-hole contingent merely has another tool to widen the funnel of opportunities. By eliminating compromise and being willing to divest others of their benefits, one can increase the likelihood of eventual success.

It just takes timing to stumble on one gold-making opportunity. It takes an approach to repeat it with consistency.

I had a conversation with a drill instructor who encapsulated (hah) the role by asking if I thought he really had that level of anger over untied bootlaces.

Many a-holes use every opportunity to send the message that not following their way will lead to dire consequences. It doesn't have to appear rational in the moment, but it is generally intended to achieve end results that the a-hole is unwilling to communicate.