Privilege vs Merit: A Personal Journey

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You could also use an image of a person standing proudly at the top of a hill, symbolizing success achieved through effort, contrasted with an image of a hand lifting someone up, representing privilege.

Growing up, I was always aware of the difference between privilege and merit. Privilege, as I’ve come to understand it, is being given something without having to earn it. It could be wealth, opportunities, or simply access to things that others have to work hard for. Merit, on the other hand, is the reward that comes from achievement, hard work, and persistence. These two forces often shape lives in very different ways.

I was raised in a merit-based system, and while it wasn’t always easy, it taught me valuable lessons. One of the earliest frustrations I remember was not being able to go on school trips to Europe because we simply couldn’t afford it. Watching classmates go on adventures while I stayed behind was tough. At that age, it’s easy to feel that life is unfair, and I certainly felt the sting of not having the same privileges as some of the other kids.

But, looking back now, I realize that these experiences planted seeds that would grow into the values I hold today. The merit-based system taught me that hard work leads to reward. It instilled in me the right type of pride in achievement—an earned pride, not one handed to me. More importantly, it gave me the motivation to continue striving for more. This sense of ownership over my work and accomplishments is something I carry with me to this day.

As an adult, these principles have been the foundation of my success. The same values of hard work and delayed gratification have guided me in achieving major life goals. Whether it’s saving up for a dream car, a home, or growing my practice, I’ve learned to appreciate the process and the satisfaction that comes with earning these rewards. The merit-based system didn’t give me immediate results, but it has always delivered long-term success.

For anyone who might feel frustrated by a lack of privilege, I offer this perspective: don’t view yourself as a victim. Privilege and merit exist on a spectrum, and they’re fluid. What you may lack in privilege, you can gain in merit—and vice versa. For example, as a chiropractor, I’ve faced challenges that medical doctors might not. But at the same time, being a chiropractor has its own unique advantages.

No matter where you start, the most important thing is to build on your strengths and stay focused on what you can achieve through hard work and persistence. The satisfaction that comes from earning something is far more fulfilling than receiving it without effort. Your journey is unique, and merit will always be a strong foundation to build on.

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