You have to read this book.
It debunks the myths, the perceptions we all have about success. We tend to believe that successful people; the rock stars, olympic athletes, billionaire entrepreneurs:
- Are prodigies (the genius myth)
- Just worked really hard (rags to riches myth)
- Or, my personal favourite, got lucky (the right place, right time or nepotism myth)
“Some are born to greatness, some aspire to greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them”
William Shakespeare
In his book, Malcolm systematically demonstrates that success, that is, outstanding success, in a given field requires much more. The research shows that you require to be born at the right time (in some fields this is within a 3 month window), to the right parents, from the right culture, in the right location. You need talent for sure, but this is more to guide your interest into a field, and help you stick at it. You don’t need to work harder, you need to work much harder than anyone else.
For me this book was liberating. These myths can make one doubt oneself – if I’m smart, and I work really hard, and I have access to opportunities (education, training, experience) why aren’t I a rock star? Well, because of a number of other factors. Not being the rock star doesn’t negate your talent, or hard work, or even opportunity. It doesn’t mean you can’t be a rock star, although perhaps not a rock star in a particular field. It also doesn’t mean that rock stars are any better than you. And yes, you can learn stardom (although whether you’ll want to make the required sacrifice is another discussion)
It was also instructive in two areas:
- I clarified my own intuitive understanding around things like my struggle with sport at school, despite sailing competitively afterwards, even becoming a Dive Instructor; and why I fared much better academically. As a parent, this helps me guide my daughters in their choices.
- You can be really successful. It’s not about nature vs nurture. It’s about a whole lot more, and you’ll be wise to really understand your talents, your experience, your cultural heritage, and your opportunities. Then work towards overcoming any weaknesses, with the right mentor, and find the sweet spot for you individually.
That’s particularly powerful. Think of any area where you wish to be successful, including as a spouse, parent etc, then learn – from books, from mentors – and practice, with feedback from coaches. 10,000 hours is the entry level to expertise 
This is a must own book. Again I took advantage of Audible.com with the audio book. This is narrated by Malcolm Gladwell himself, and he lends a special tone to the book. Especially in the final chapters which are somewhat autobiographical.
Rog42’s Rating Index (RRI)
| Category | |
| Readability | ***** |
| Novel Learning | ***** |
| Influence of Change | **** |
| Overall RRI | ***** |
Buy, Borrow, or Ignore List?
“Buy” – Get the Audiobook if you can