Default Hard Work

I realize that I tend to assume that people are naturally talented.

For example, one of my friends has incredible people skills. He regularly talks to strangers, he’s the center of attention in a room, and he’s also great when it comes to girls. I always assumed he was naturally like this. Later, as I got to know him, I learned that he’s introverted and was bullied in school. Through hard work and determination, he built up people skills despite his natural tendency.

Defaulting to talent as the reason for someone’s competence robs me of learning opportunities. It prevents me from asking them about their skills since I assume they were born with them.

Instead of defaulting to talent as the reason for someone’s competence, I want to default to hard work instead.