A major factor for success is: good health.

Empress Wu Zetian could tame wild horses in her teens, gave birth to six children with Li Zhi, and even helped him manage state affairs. She ascended the throne at the age of 67, held the D position for over a decade, and didn't pass away until she was 81.

At the age when she became emperor, many people might already be preparing for the grave, with no more illusions about life, yet her next journey was just beginning.

Sima Yi also had good health.

Cao Cao said he had a "wolf-like gaze" and wanted to be wary of him, but Cao Cao died, and he didn't; Cao Cao's son Cao Pi died, and he still didn't; Cao Cao's grandson Cao Rui died, and he still didn't.

He couldn't conquer Zhuge Liang, but he outlived him. In his seventies, he was still able to defeat his political rival Cao Shuang, seize military and political power, and lay the foundation for the Sima family to usher in the Western Jin era.

Success requires accumulation. People with poor stamina might die before they even get to "reap the fruits."

ps: I'm not saying "as long as you're healthy, you'll succeed," thank you.