Talented Actors and salespeople are often able to capture what they call "local star power" : situational periods of top status based on charisma or relevant skill. But local status is usually fleeting compared to global status, which is generally determined by some combination of power and attractiveness to potential mates. It doesn't matter if you crown yourself King of the Middle Kingdom if you have no desirable courtiers orbiting your throne. So there are many different nested and intertwined status hierarchies (athletic, scientific, creative, etc), but not nearly enough to accommodate most status-seekers. Intentional communities - often religious - are one of the few examples that subvert external status criteria successfully over significant periods.