Opportunity & Success ~ Outliers Takeaways

One of the quotes I recalled from this book, Outliers: The Story of Success was, “Intellect and achievement are far from perfectly correlated.”   The book makes it clear that there are other factors to consider. The book discusses outliers and achievements and correlation to opportunity.  Many of the professions and individuals discussed were examples of rock stars, sport players, business tycoons, technical gurus or programmers, etc. Many examples were of both men and woman who in some way or another have done things considered  extraordinary. I found the particular correlation to history/ancestors interesting. It brings more light as to why some of the U.S. states are so partial to the right to bear arms, especially those in the mountain regions. The age and opportunity section was of interest, as I had never considered birth date to be much of significance before this book. In fact, the book indicated that birth dates do matter, and the book shares multiple stories where early birthdays show correlation to success. It made me consider schools and choices about separating classes by birth date. I knew one needed practice to be top of their game, but I had no idea about the 10,000 hour rule – basically that practicing 10,000 hours is what is required to the very best and top notch at his/her skill. Essentially, practice isn’t the thing one does once one is good, it the basis for greatness. One timely and current example used was Bill Gates with the time he put into computer programming and the opportunities he was provided.  The opportunities were almost as important as his work ethic and passion. To be truly great, it is shown that tremendous work coupled with unique and powerful opportunities tell the full story. The KIPP schools were of interest – the research was fascinating about the hours and disparities between poor kids and wealthy kids’ tests and transfer of learning. It would be interesting to see the striking differences between KIPP schools and other schools with college graduates in top tier schools, etc. I found myself discussing the year round school and mentioning KIPP schools to a friend who is a teacher. I also have new thinking about Asian counting and math tests. I never realized how difficult our American math system and counting system was until I saw a new way. I loved the two-ten-nine for 29. Simple and straightforward! I sure wish back in the day that my math teachers managed my math classes like the KIPP schools do.  I agree that it is more about attitude as opposed to the idea that either one has “it” or doesn’t.  The space and time to explore and reflect is crucial. Definitely a good book overall. I was never one to test highly….as Malcolm Gladwell states, “It is not the brightest who succeed.  Nor is success simply the sum of the decisions and efforts we make on our own behalf. It is, rather, a gift. Outliers are those who have been given opportunities — and who have had the strength and presence of mind to seize them.”