School of thought for success

Some amusing (to me, of course ... you might find this in the category of "..." :P) thoughts crossed my mind while watching this Cantonese Drama entitled "Life Made Simple". I don't mean to criticize or give a review, but there is a subplot of it that intrigue me. The subplot is about succeeding in a higher class society.

A poor public estate (low on social rank) girl (C) had opportunity to further studies and return to her hometown with a degree. She began work in a famous company along with her cousin (A) who is wealthy. C is brought up to know that with knowledge and hard work, one can change the fate of one's future. Due to her diligence, she manages to gather money for studies, renovate the house and climb rank in the company.

A is holds on to the principle that presentation and knowing people will get you to the top of the ladder. She dresses the part (she can afford it anyway! :D ) and uses the contacts she has to pave her way to success. Her method causes a lot of people to get hurt and play into her hands.

Now, don't get me wrong. I am neither for nor against the thoughts. The core of me believes that the values we have will help us rise; hardworking, loyal, honesty. But, one cannot deny the windows formed by having contacts. Sometimes, one has to play a gambit (a move to sacrifice something else to protect or rather allow advancement/success). I cannot help wondering the power one will have if he/she can manipulate the chess pieces on the board so easily(no offence to anyone who plays chess, but rather a metaphor of life's decisions). Perhaps a combination of both school of thought is optimum but not so realistic :P

No particular side or strong opinion but rather just some random musings ...