I thought of the Warren Bennis quote (the myth of leaders being “born” that way) when I read about a new book due for publication next month:
According to the “Cambridge Handbook of Expertise and Expert Performance,” the trait we commonly call talent is highly overrated. Or, put another way, expert performers — whether in sports or surgery, ballet or computer programming, music or leadership — are nearly always made, not born.
One of the most interesting findings from this research is that there is little hard evidence that anyone could attain a level of exceptional performance without spending a lot of time perfecting it.
This is not to say that all people have equal potential. But it does mean that a certain kind of practice (called “deliberate practice” in the study) is needed to build on whatever potential you have. So, our mothers were right, it’s practice that makes perfect – if that practice has two key elements: immediate feedback and specific goal-setting.
According to the findings, rather than saying you don’t have the talent for something, a more accurate statement would be that you don’t have the desire to devote the time, energy and focus that it would take for you to excel.
Thinking of changing jobs – careers – industries? Then find something you love and go for it! If you don’t love what you do, you are unlikely to put out enough effort to get very good. And if you do love your work, you’ll be surprised at how “talented” you can become.
What’s your opinion of this research? Do you agree or disagree with the findings?
Carol Kinsey Goman, Ph.D. is the author of nine books including CREATIVITY IN BUSINESS and “THIS ISN’T THE COMPANY I JOINED” — How to Lead in a Business Turned Upside Down. She delivers keynote speeches and seminars to association and business audiences around the world. For more information or to book Carol as a speaker at one of your events, please call: 510-526-1727, email: CGoman@CKG.com, or visit her website: http://www.CKG.com.
