I find it interesting that this was early career. It lines up with my experience, too.
Perhaps it's the case that, the less you know about a field, the more you attribute success to mysterious personal characteristics. And the more you know about it, the more you understand the role of circumstance and situational dynamics in determining performance.
Good point. My ignorance back then certainly could have played a part in my perception, but I don't think I am wrong :) I could go into details why, but I doubt specifics would be interesting to anyone.
I do agree that personal ignorance can make competency look more amazing.
Perhaps it's the case that, the less you know about a field, the more you attribute success to mysterious personal characteristics. And the more you know about it, the more you understand the role of circumstance and situational dynamics in determining performance.