Geoff Colvin

Talent Is Overrated

1. IDEA 1

   Natural talent explains less than thought

   Colvin argues that research does not support the common belief that great performers are born with special gifts. Top achievers often showed little early sign of greatness; what set them apart came later.

2. IDEA 2

   Experience alone doesn't make experts

   Many people work in a field for decades without getting much better. Colvin explains that simply doing a job repeatedly is not enough, and can even lead people to stop improving.

3. IDEA 3

   Deliberate practice is designed improvement

   The key, Colvin says, is deliberate practice: activity designed to improve performance, repeated a lot, with continuous feedback. It is mentally demanding and not much fun, which is why few people do it.

All 8 ideas from Talent Is Overrated →