There's three things you need to get ahead in this world.
Intellect: the raw brainpower necessary to complete whatever work you deem necessary.
Motivation: The drive to push for your goals.
Charisma: It's all about who you know, and this is how you get to know them.
Now, I'm going to not be modest for this next statement. I am very intellectually gifted. To give an honest estimate I'd say top half percent. (Keep in mind there are several gifted minds on this forum. I'm comparing to general populace, making no such statement about here). This number is possibly higher but then I'd be making boastful guesses. I've met many people as smart as me, and a good handful smarter, but that's at prestigious colleges etc. I know my match and I know when I'm outclassed.
I am also fairly charismatic where it counts. I may not have the dashing handsome looks that will make girls swoon (though my gf doth protest...