Is it really possible to be too smart to be rich or successful?

I think that it is entirely possible to be too smart, here are a few cases:

1. Perhaps those that went to a high caliber college came out with a slight elitist attitude?  I would like to suggest that they make a decision on what they think is correct and not objective data…  So when Johnny, a graduate from a local state college ran the numbers and suggested something different… he gets largely ignored.  After Johnny turns out to be correct, sometimes those smarter than he, still largely ignore his research and conclusion.  Johnny, who knew that he was in the right, finally gets upset and quits…  Then Johnny goes on to start a competing business based on his research and knowledge.
2. Perhaps another example would be the learned man/woman that just doesn’t have time for trivial matters, they are living for a higher goal.  They are in a perpetual state of learning (or enlightenment), soaking up everything like a sponge!  I have a friend that has a doctorate degree in chemistry.  But he works at a grocery store…  He has been going to college his entire adult life.  As long as they are happy this way, who am I to judge.?.
3. Perhaps you are smart in certain areas, but can’t communicate those thoughts and ideas.   Nothing discredits a brilliant idea as the inability to communicate your thoughts so that others can comprehend what you are saying.  As a technologist, I have many friends that fall into this camp, including myself to a lesser degree.

Other smart people are held back from being rich because they don’t have the ambition, drive, or focus to do so.  I’ve seen entire families like this.  I think this behavior is learned…  Perhaps they don’t believe that is deserving enough?

There are countless other scenarios… some don’t delegate tasks out or try to do it all, or the inexperienced smarty tries to out-think the wise battle-worn expert.

If you are lucky enough to be able and open enough to identify these personal faults, perhaps you can create a system to work on to overcome such hurdles…

Do you know people like I’m writing about?  How about you, do you know what your weaknesses are?  Do you believe if you try with great focus, you can overcome any obstacles?

-MR