Are You the Exception: Thoughts on Finding Success Without Finishing School

It's true—you don’t necessarily need to finish school to achieve success. Many individuals who never completed high school have gone on to succeed in various fields, with some even becoming billionaires. This phenomenon isn’t new and will likely continue. But instead of asking whether you need a degree to be successful, a more important question might be: what do you actually need to succeed?

The Role of Education for Most People

Understanding the importance of education for most people would usually require a dive into history, where education has been a gateway to a better life for many, especially for marginalized communities. However, let's focus on the present.

In today's world, higher levels of education still play a significant role in determining the average income a person can expect. Studies suggest that college graduates may earn, on average, $1 million more over their lifetime compared to those who only have a high school diploma.

This trend is particularly evident among minority populations, where higher education is strongly linked to better financial outcomes and overall success. In 2022 and beyond, the pattern continues: the higher the education, the better the chances for financial stability, health, and well-being.

The Gates-Zuckerberg Phenomenon: Are You the Exception?

While higher education prepares us for the workforce and adult life, some argue that it’s not always necessary. They point to examples like Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg, who left college to build groundbreaking companies that changed the world.

But before using these stories as proof that you don’t need school, consider this: Gates and Zuckerberg were exceptions. They had unique, world-changing ideas that didn’t require a college degree to succeed. However, they did gain some education to help bring those ideas to life.

College and other higher education institutions provide a structure designed to increase your chances of success in your chosen field. While you might not need this structure, it’s important not to confuse bypassing it with bypassing education altogether.

Success Isn’t Just About Money

While it’s true that college graduates often earn more than those with only a high school diploma, higher degrees don’t always guarantee higher income. Success looks different for everyone.

In some careers, success and income go hand in hand. In others, success might lead to significant positive outcomes without necessarily resulting in a huge paycheck. For instance, a successful surgeon might achieve great things for their patients and society, but their income might not reflect their impact.

What Does Success Mean to You?

Everyone aspires to succeed at something. Once you discover your life’s purpose, it’s natural to work hard to achieve it.

But what does fulfilling your life purpose look like? That’s your definition of success. Whether it comes with a high income or not, success will require you to apply knowledge to solve real-world problems. Learning, the process of acquiring that knowledge, is always crucial to success. If you believe you don’t need the structure of college, remember that you’ll still need to seek education elsewhere, or your chances of success and growth may diminish.

Are You the Exception?

If you believe you’re not the exception, completing your formal education might be your best path to success.

But if you see yourself as an exception, you can still achieve great things, whether you finish school or not.

I hope this perspective helps! ☺