Successful people often give advice based on their current lifestyle, not what actually helped them succeed initially.
Mismatch in stages: The strategies they use now (e.g., balance, ease, detachment) helped them sustain success—not create it.
Failure of memory: Many forget or gloss over the intense effort, obsession, and sacrifice they made early on.
Contradictory messaging: They preach balance and grace now, but originally worked obsessively and intensely to achieve success.
Motivational shift: Their current motivations (peace, purpose) differ from earlier ones (fear, insecurity, resentment).
Negativity as fuel: Early-stage success is often driven by pain, insecurity, and a desire to prove oneself—not serenity.
Luxury belief analogy: Promoting "balanced" drive is like promoting "defund the police" from a safe, privileged position—it doesn't reflect the needs of those still struggling.
Misleading for beginners: Beginners can't replicate late-stage strategies and expect early-stage outcomes.
Better question: Ask what successful people did when they were at your stage, not what they do now.
Source: Chris Williamson, Modern Wisdom Podcast