Can an Average Person Achieve Above Average or Extraordinary Success?

Absolutely!

Strategies for Success

The most successful outcomes often stem from simple, straightforward common sense strategies combined with good motivation, perseverance, and tenacity. Complex intricate strategies requiring more brain power are not necessary for most situations in normal living. They are typically found in specialist fields where individuals may dedicate their lives to solving specific problems.

History and personal experiences showcase many successful people who would not be considered 'brain boxes.' Sometimes, even someone who is clearly an idiot can become extremely successful, given the right circumstances.

The Role of Intelligence

Intelligence does play a role in success, but it is not deterministic. Research shows that intelligence relates to a large number of important life outcomes, but these outcomes are not entirely predetermined. Life sciences are studied statistically because many uncontrollable factors come into play. The key for researchers is to determine if outcomes are above or below what would occur by random chance.

Success is a somewhat vague condition, so it must be narrowed down and measured. Income is often used as a primary measure, but other metrics are often more meaningful in certain contexts. For example, the success of a baseball player can be measured by his batting percentage and other statistics. While these did not necessarily lead to huge wealth in the past, they do today. Money can be a secondary parameter in many situations.

Intelligence has particular importance in STEM fields or in cognitively demanding non-STEM fields like law. It is less critical in sports, entertainment, and less cognitively demanding fields. The correlation between first-year college grades and IQ is around r 0.50, which means that 25% of the variance in grades can be explained by intelligence. The other 75% is due to other factors, providing ample room for students of average ability to excel.

The Power of Belief

Belief in oneself is crucial. We are all endowed with at least a tiny spark of genius. Find what that spark is and develop it. That one little spark could be the key to curing cancer or making a significant contribution to society. Whether working individually or collectively, each person's contribution is vital.

Overcoming Obstacles

Success is not always about being the smartest or having the most resources. Sometimes, an average person with the right mindset, motivation, and perseverance can achieve extraordinary success. The key is to believe that success is within reach, even for those who are not considered 'brain boxes.'

Conclusion

So, remember that with the right mixture of common sense strategies, motivation, perseverance, and a belief in oneself, even an average person can achieve above average or extraordinary success.