Successful people acknowledging how luck has helped them along the way
At the Fairness Foundation, we campaign for a fairer economy, where everyone can maximise their potential, regardless of their family background or circumstances. We’re a long way from achieving this goal in Britain today; our research shows that wealth inequality is undermining the life chances of millions of people.
At the same time, we underestimate the role that luck plays in our lives, preferring to believe the meritocratic myth - that ‘you can make it if you try’, that success is entirely down to individual talent and hard work, and that wealth inequality is therefore morally justifiable, perhaps even desirable (despite all of the evidence to the contrary).
Tailwinds is a concept for a campaign to amplify the voices of successful Britons who are willing to publicly recognise that their success owes something to luck, to factors outside their control, as well as to their hard work and talent.
As part of the campaign, participants will sign up to a very simple statement along these lines. They will also be asked to publish something more personal – in writing or on camera – that explores this in more detail. This might, for example, look at how they benefited from good luck in terms of the circumstances of their birth, as well as from specific examples of good luck during their lives (and their ability or willingness to make the most of this luck).
We’re looking for successful people with public profiles in the UK, in any field, who recognise that luck has played a part in getting them to where they are today. If you fit this description, please complete the online form, and we’ll be in touch. There’s no obligation to do anything if you change your mind.