Is great talent something reserved for the few? It appears that throughout history great talent is viewed as a freakish accident that is accessible only to a few selected individuals. Even today, we seem to put on a pedestal people who have achieved greatness thinking that this may only happen to the very few.
In the Illiad, Achilles is said to have been born of a mortal father and an immortal goddess. He is a mortal with special abilities inherited by his mother. He is a skilled fighter who surpasses most in skill and courage.
Is talent so rare that it’s only reserved to the semi gods? I believe that what makes these leaders great is not their genes but the ability to have no fear of failure while working towards a goal. To see the outcome already accomplished and move towards that goal step by step regardless of the obstacles that are faced without giving up.
We hear about people like Lincoln who failed so many times before becoming President. What about Steve Jobs? He is one of the most admired leaders in businesss-viewed by many as a rare talent with godly qualities. Again, he did not get to the top without setbacks and challenges. Rather than stop when faced with a challenge, these people don’t give up. Rather than step back, they keep moving forward regardless of the obstacles faced. They find a way to tackle each problem with ingeniuty, confidence and resilience. This is what talent is really all about. It is not a special gift that is reserved for the demi gods-I believe it’s a choice that can be made by each one of us.
So where does talent really come from? Your thoughts?
Photo Credits, by dalbera
