Is success about hard work, or is it more about being in the right place at the right time? This question has sparked countless debates, and in the United States, opinions are just as divided.
Recent findings from a 29-country Ipsos survey offer a glimpse into what Americans believe is the secret to success, shedding light on the values that guide their paths and the factors they see as most influential.
Whether you're climbing the corporate ladder, building a small business, or striving for personal goals, understanding these perspectives can provide valuable insights into what it takes to succeed in today's world. Ipsos iSay team brings you just that so read on!
The American Perspective on Success
In a country often celebrated for its opportunities, nearly half of Americans (43%) believe that success comes down to personal effort. This perspective likely reflects a deep-rooted belief in the idea that hard work pays off.
And having succeded, a new question pops up: climbing the career ladder vs work-life balance.
But not everyone may see it that way. One in four Americans (25%) feel that success is more influenced by factors beyond their control. This view is objectively less common here than in other parts of the world. In countries like Turkey (49%), Spain (39%), and Great Britain (36%), a higher percentage attribute success to luck or external circumstances.
Interestingly, it seems that age plays a role in these beliefs, both in American and across the world. Older adults, those between 50 and 74, are more inclined to believe that effort is the main driver of success. On the flip side, younger adults, especially Gen Z and Millennials, tend to see external factors as more influential in determining outcomes.
Inequality: A Lower Priority in the U.S.
When it comes to inequality, Americans seem less concerned than people in many other countries. Only two-fifths of Americans (40%) view inequality as a major issue, placing the U.S. in the bottom 25% of countries surveyed in terms of concern. This may suggest that many Americans feel the country is doing relatively well in terms of equality.
Perceptions of Unfair Treatment in the U.S.
Despite the lower concern about inequality, individuals in the U.S. acknowledge that unfair treatment still exists. People from minority ethic groups are seen by Americans as most likely to experience unequal treatment (31%). Following close behind are immigrants (28%), people with mental health conditions (27%), and transgender or non-binary people (27%).
When it comes to gender, the perception of discrimination against women is slightly lower in America than in other countries. Less than a quarter of Americans (23%) believe women are among the most discriminated against groups, compared to a higher global average of 26%. Men are rarely seen as facing discrimination, with only 8% of Americans holding this view.
Who Should Address Inequality?
About half of Americans (51%) agree that the government should take the lead in addressing inequality. This reflects a common belief among many countries surveyed that structural change requires governmental action. But it’s not just up to the government. Americans also see individuals (31%) and the media (25%) as playing a crucial role in reducing inequality.
Those who experience inequality are seen as having a relatively minor role in solving it. Only about 1 in 10 Americans (12%) think that the groups facing discrimination should be the ones to address it, highlighting a belief that broader societal efforts are necessary.
What Drives Success in America?
The varied perspectives on what drives success in the U.S. paint a picture of a country that values both personal responsibility and recognizes the impact of external influences.
These beliefs not only shape individual goals but also influence broader societal attitudes and policies.
As Americans continue to navigate these views, the ongoing debate around success and inequality will likely remain central to discussions about the country’s future.
Join the Conversation
Success is a deeply personal concept, shaped by individual experiences and broader societal trends. Whether you believe in the power of hard work or see luck as the deciding factor, your perspective adds to the rich tapestry of opinions that define our understanding of success.
Join the conversation and share your views—after all, the more we understand what drives success, the better equipped we are to shape a future where everyone has likely a fair shot at achieving their goals.
Share your opinions on success and many other interesting topics by participating in research with Ipsos iSay. Check your dashboard for surveys now!
The Ipsos research shared in this article has been sourced from: https://www.ipsos.com/en-us/ipsos-equalities-index-2024
