A career in orthopedic surgery in the United Kingdom is highly competitive. Great residents are trainees who understand that ultimately, they are responsible for their own training. They need to work with their Training Program Director to plan their career, to develop as surgeons, to reflect on their performance and any feedback they receive, be flexible, and plan ahead. There is competition but it is fair for everyone and the great resident will excel within this environment and will be successful in the long term.