Previous research has confirmed that a high IQ in childhood is not a guarantee for eminence or creative productivity (Terman, 1925). Researchers within gifted education assert that personality factors and motivation are the most important elements of creative achievement and distinguish creative producers from others.

Csikszentmihalyi writes, “The unifying similarity among geniuses and innovators is not cognitive or affective but motivational. What is common among them is the unwillingness or inability to strive for goals everyone else accepts, their refusal to live by a presented life theme.”

From article: Psychological Factors in the Development of Adulthood Giftedness from Childhood Talent, By Paula Olszewski-Kubilius, PhD

[photo: Georgia O'Keeffe, "Hitching a Ride to Abiquiu"]

Related article The Winning Edge, By Peter Doskoch [Psychology Today] – “We’re primed to think that talent is the key to success. But what counts even more is a fusion of passion and perseverance. In a world of instant gratification, grit may yield the biggest payoff of all.”

Related section: Personal Growth Information

Related article: Genius: The Modern View [NY Times op-ed, with added video, book links etc]

gifted adults, gifted adult information, gifted adult personality, psychology of giftedness, high ability, high aptitude

Tags: giftedness, living an extraordinary life, personal achievement.
Posted 11.19.06 under Achievement, Gifted/talented   |  
  Get more information and resources in the Developing Talent Newsletter
    Personal Growth Products / Programs       Anxiety Relief Programs.

Related Articles

• It takes more than talent to find your true potential
• Linda Silverman & Malcolm Gladwell on the high aptitude personality
• Gifted and talented adults still hiding out
• Developing multiple talents is an adventure – but not a sure thing
• The gifted adult: a lot going on inside