<p>Think of it as a pyramid. Great advancements in technology have built on previous technology.
Electricity > Circuits > Computing > Networks > Software > Internet (to simplify it). It would have been impossible to just go out and “invent the internet” without the previous accomplishments of others to make it possible.</p>
<p>It’s the same deal with accomplishments.
- Without getting good grades in highschool, you couldn’t have gotten into a good college.
- Without your college degree you couldn’t get a job in your desired field.
- Without your job experience you couldn’t have made some great discovery.</p>
<p>You can’t separate one distinctly from the other; life is a series of connected events. </p>
<p>Otherwise I’m not sure what sorts of “accomplishments” you’re referring to. Tying your shoe? Replacing a flat tire? Without something to build upon, you’re stuck at the lower level of impact.</p>
<p>As to happiness; what about people who gain happiness from accomplishing things? And what about those who are happy drinking themselves to death?</p>