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10,000 hours the magic number for greatness
As a follow up from last week’s article on choosing discipline over motivation, I want to introduce the concept of the 10,000 hour rule.
The 10,000 hour rule is a phrase made famous by Malcolm Gladwell’s book Outliers. It is one of my all time favourite books to read and you would often find me recommending the book if you have known me in any capacity.
The rule paraphrased from the book is:
If you want to become a master at anything (Hockey, dancing, being the best surgeon etc.), you must practise that skill for at least 10,000 hours
Scientists debate whether 10,000 hours is the magical figure to become an expert, but what is not in question is all great achievements in history have only been possible after years of dedicated effort on a particular craft.
I am aware Gladwell sensationalises this rule somewhat from the original research (see further reading below), but the general principle that talent is really an accumulation of practiced ability is something we can all utilise.
Book Recommendation: Outliers
Check out this book as it covers a wide range of topics on how people become “successful”. It looks at how our success can be affected by practice, social factors, geographical factors and what our cultural heritage endows upon us.
Interestingly it also discusses what you might call emotional intelligence or practical intelligence and the role it plays in the lives of successful individuals. I think this is a topic I want to examine further in a future edition as it is something I personally found tough to get a grip on.
So do check out Outliers and let me know what you think of it once you have read it by commenting below.
Further Reading
1. The original research on deliberate practice to become expert performers.
As always, your comments and thoughts are welcome on the topic.
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