Exactly. It certainly takes strength in the skill of politics. While some are naturals, it's an art and science that's anything but simple. The people on top were often groomed for it by experts (parents or whatever) over literally decades. They also get lots of practice during that time.

That's why I tell people who want to be rich or powerful to master people skills, maintain right image, go to right schools, get the right connections, and deal/negotiate their way to top manager by manger, boardroom by boardroom.