Episode 18 - The Talent Myth

Send us a text

What does it take to achieve great things?  How do we define abilities and the differences between the able and the less able?
As a culture, we have long fixated upon the idea of talent, often given by God.  Seen as gifts that enable specific individuals to reach heights and achievements beyond their control, the concept serves as a balm to those who seek to minimize any labors involved, or admit to their own choices to do otherwise.
Yet, I believe the idea unnecessarily hinders far more than it ever encourages.  By removing an individual’s own agency in the matter, we discourage ourselves from pursuing our goals in the face of perceived mediocrity.  Likewise, by ascribing successes to the intervention of divine powers, we deny ourselves the rightfully earned joy of achievement from a job well done.
In this episode, we explore the topic of creativity and motivation in the hopes of reframing the idea of the pursuit as one in which we all can participate.

Support the Show!
Direct Donations via PayPal - [email protected]
Patreon page - http://www.patreon.com/TheSapientSimian

Support the show