: The rise of Ursula Burns, the first Black woman to lead a Fortune 500 company, illustrates how combining intrinsic motivation with external support can unlock the "winner effect" even in challenging environments. The Winner Effect: The Science of Success and How to Use It

In the waters of Lake Tanganyika, a subordinate male cichlid is typically pale, timid, and spends its time hiding to avoid conflict. However, if the dominant male in its territory disappears, this timid fish swims forward and wins a brief fight for dominance.

Robertson argues that humans experience a similar "success flywheel". Whether it is a small victory at work or a major career achievement, winning triggers a surge of dopamine that reinforces confidence and risk-taking.

: Its colors deepen and its body grows stronger almost instantly.