What helps you the most is leverage the reason why people are doing better than you even when they are putting less effort is that they have more degrees than you and you have to guard your leverage with all your strength because it is what determines the quality of life.
One of the fastest way you can lose that leverage is to let people know that you need them whether in your job in a relationship with a client negotiation when it comes to any any meetings the one who can work easily is the one that holds the most power.
That is why you must protect your leverage at all costs although there are some moments where you have to make those sacrifices but you still have to put that leverage in most part of your life so that you can have edge over another and you not only look weak.
When you communicate with others or interact with others you must have your own value your own edge your own power that can save you from the worst so that is how you leverage from what you have.