Ever wondered how great personalities like Ted Williams and Albert Einstein balanced their relentless obsession with work and personal life? How can we draw inspiration from historical figures like Genghis Khan to manage the modern work-life dilemma? Want to uncover the secret behind the success of unconventional high achievers, and the importance of trust and cooperation in the realm of success?

Barking Up the Wrong Tree: The Surprising Science Behind Why Everything You Know About Success Is (Mostly) Wrong

Imagine a life without pain. Sounds perfect, right? But for Ashlyn Blocker, who doesn't feel pain due to a genetic defect, this seemingly superpower is dangerous. People with her condition often suffer unnoticed injuries and have shorter lifespans. Despite the allure of a pain-free life, her story reminds us that what appears advantageous can be a curse.

Similarly consider valedictorians. Karen Arnold's research on 81 high school valedictorians revealed they excel in academic and professional careers but rarely achieve groundbreaking success. Schools reward conformity and generalism, not the passion or expertise needed for world-changing innovations. 

Contrastingly, Winston Churchill, a maverick with paranoid zealotry, became Britain's leader during WWII, seeing threats others ignored. His once-negative traits became assets in a crisis, highlighting the value of being an "unfiltered" leader who breaks the mold.

Gautam Mukunda's research differentiates between "filtered" leaders, who rise through traditional ranks, and "unfiltered" ones, who bring fresh perspectives and dramatic change. This theory explains why some outliers, like Churchill, succeed where conventional leaders fail.

Consider Glenn Gould, a hypochondriac and eccentric pianist. His quirks, supported by his nurturing environment, turned him into a musical legend. But without his parents' support, his peculiarities might have led to failure.

This brings us to the idea of "dandelions" and "orchids." Dandelions thrive in any condition, while orchids need specific care but can become spectacular. Genes once considered "bad," like DRD4-7R associated with ADHD, can lead to exceptional kindness or creativity in the right environment. 

Even "hopeful monsters," individuals with radical genetic traits, can transform a species if they find the right context. Michael Phelps, with his unusual body proportions, became an Olympic legend through swimming, not running.

Successful people often possess traits seen as negative. Creative individuals may be disorganized or rebellious, yet their unique perspectives drive innovation. Pixar, fearing stagnation, hired Brad Bird, who embraced "unfiltered" artists, leading to the creation of The Incredibles.

Traits like hypomania, linked to Silicon Valley entrepreneurs, can fuel relentless drive and innovation. Marc Andreesen, a venture capitalist, emphasizes investing in start-ups with extreme strengths, even if they have flaws.

Personal tragedies, like losing a parent, can also fuel greatness. Figures like Abraham Lincoln and Gandhi turned early losses into a drive for success.

Ultimately, understanding your strengths and choosing the right environment is crucial. So, whether you're a rule-following valedictorian or an unfiltered maverick, success lies in embracing your true self and finding the right place to shine.

Can Being 'Different' Lead to Extraordinary Success?

Michael Swango, an intelligent but unsuccessful doctor, became one of the most notorious serial killers, with an estimated 60 victims. Despite red flags and a witnessed attempt on a patient’s life, hospital management prioritized reputation over justice, allowing Swango's malevolence to continue for 15 years. This raises questions about fairness and success: Do rule-breakers thrive while good people falter?

In the short term, bad behavior can indeed yield rewards. Studies show that managing your boss’s perception is more crucial for success than hard work. Flattery, even when insincere, often results in better performance reviews. 

Similarly, assertive and disagreeable individuals tend to secure higher salaries and better credit scores. Surprisingly, rudeness can be perceived as competence, and rule-breakers are seen as powerful.

However, this behavior comes at a cost. Research by Ruut Veenhoven reveals Moldova as the unhappiest country due to rampant distrust, where selfishness stifles cooperation. Similarly, Duke University's Dan Ariely found that witnessing others cheat increases overall cheating, leading to a downward spiral.

Interestingly, even criminals understand the importance of trust and cooperation. Prison gangs and pirates, often viewed as chaotic and violent, actually thrive on internal trust and democratic systems. These groups ensure stability and order, which are essential for their success. For example, pirates operated democratically, promoting fairness and trust, which made their enterprises appealing and effective.

But what about truly good people? Do they succeed? For instance, Wesley Autrey’s heroic act of saving a man on subway tracks earned him numerous accolades and rewards, contradicting the notion that nice guys always finish last. Adam Grant's research shows that "Givers" (those who help others) are overrepresented both at the bottom and top of success metrics. While some Givers get exploited, others excel because their generosity builds strong, supportive networks.

Trust and cooperation, fundamental to successful criminal enterprises, are also crucial in legitimate endeavors. Robert Axelrod’s Prisoner’s Dilemma tournaments demonstrated that "tit for tat" (cooperate first, then reciprocate your partner’s last move) is the most effective strategy. This approach fosters cooperation and punishes betrayal, ensuring long-term success.

To be ethical and successful:
1. Pick the Right Environment: Surround yourself with good people.
2. Cooperate First: Initiate positive interactions.
3. Set Limits: Avoid being overly selfless to prevent burnout.
4. Make Your Efforts Visible: Ensure your hard work is acknowledged.
5. Think Long Term: Build lasting relationships.
6. Forgive: Allow others second chances to foster trust.

Michael Swango was eventually caught, proving that even in a selfish world, justice can prevail. Being nice, strategic, and cooperative can indeed be a winning formula for success.

Thriving in a Selfish World: The Paradox of Success in the Lives of Pirates, Gangsters, and Heroes

Growing up poor in a small Mexican village, young Alfredo Quiñones-Hinojosa drew inspiration from a comic book hero, Kalimán, who achieved greatness through hard work and discipline. When Alfredo’s family struggled during a recession, he saw an opportunity to work in California. 

Despite numerous setbacks, including being caught by border patrol, Alfredo persisted. He worked tirelessly in California, living in his car and taking community college classes at night. His hard work paid off, leading him to the University of California, Berkeley, and eventually Harvard Medical School. Today, Dr. Q is a renowned brain surgeon at Johns Hopkins.

How did Alfredo achieve such success? The secret lies in "grit"—the perseverance and passion for long-term goals. Studies have shown that grit often distinguishes high achievers from their peers with similar intelligence and talent. For instance, millionaires often report being recognized for their dependability rather than their academic prowess.

But grit isn't just about financial success. Angela Duckworth’s research at the University of Pennsylvania highlights that kids with grit are happier, healthier, and more popular. Yet, despite these benefits, many struggle to maintain grit. Why? One reason is that people often misunderstand where grit comes from. Another is the overlooked value of strategic quitting.

Positive self-talk plays a crucial role in fostering grit. The Navy SEALs discovered that teaching recruits to engage in positive self-talk significantly increased success rates in their grueling training programs. Similarly, optimism is a powerful tool for insurance salesmen who face constant rejection but succeed by staying positive.

Martin Seligman's research on dogs revealed that learned helplessness—giving up after repeated failures—mirrors human behavior. Optimists, however, interpret setbacks as temporary and specific, maintaining their efforts. This mindset, Seligman argues, can be cultivated through changing one's explanatory style.

Meaningful stories also drive perseverance. Viktor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor, found that those who survived Auschwitz were those who had a sense of purpose. Hospital cleaners who saw their work as part of a larger mission found more satisfaction in their jobs.

Similarly, Joe Simpson, a mountain climber, survived a near-fatal accident by turning his ordeal into a game, setting small, achievable goals and focusing on them. This approach mirrors how gamifying tasks can make them more engaging and help sustain effort over time. Games are winnable, present novel challenges, set clear goals, and provide immediate feedback—all elements that make work and life more enjoyable and motivating.

However, grit must be balanced with strategic quitting. Knowing when to quit unproductive pursuits frees up time and energy for more promising endeavors. This concept is exemplified by Spencer Glendon, who, despite chronic illness, focused on achieving one significant task each day.

Finally, trying new things and being willing to fail can lead to unexpected opportunities. Matt Polly, who left Princeton to train in kung fu in China, later became a successful author. Richard Wiseman’s research shows that lucky people are those who maximize opportunities by trying new things and learning from failures.

In essence, success is a blend of knowing when to persist and when to strategically quit. Grit, optimism, meaningful stories, and the willingness to experiment and fail are all crucial components. Like the raccoons of Toronto, who outsmart every new "raccoon-proof" trash can, we can thrive by adapting and persevering through life's challenges.

Does Grit Define Success? How did a Poor Mexican Boy Become a Renowned Brain Surgeon?

Paul Erdös, a mathematical prodigy, never attended school due to his mother's fears for his health. Isolated, he befriended numbers, displaying his genius by performing complex calculations at a very young age. 

Erdös earned a Ph.D. by 21 and went on to produce an unprecedented number of academic papers, often fueled by amphetamine, a stimulant drug. Known for his eccentricities, Erdös would unexpectedly arrive at friends' homes, declare "My brain is open," and stay for days, often requiring them to do his laundry.

Despite his quirks, Erdös was beloved because he was a Giver, always encouraging and helping others. He traveled extensively, collaborating with over 500 mathematicians worldwide. His impact was so profound that the "Erdös number" became a measure of a mathematician’s proximity to him through academic collaboration. This metric even indicated the quality of a mathematician's work, with many Nobel laureates having low Erdös numbers.

The story of Erdös highlights the power of networking. Extroverts, who often thrive on social interactions, tend to make more money, get promoted more frequently, and are seen as natural leaders. Their large networks expose them to more opportunities, contributing to their success. This principle holds true even in high-stakes fields like drug dealing, where a large network can increase earnings and reduce the risk of arrest.

However, introverts, like Isaac Newton, excel through focused, solitary work. Newton, who developed calculus, optics, and gravity theories, often worked alone and had minimal social interactions. His solitary dedication led to groundbreaking discoveries without the need for extensive collaboration.

Both extroverts and introverts have their strengths. Extroverts build expansive networks, while introverts often achieve deeper expertise. Most people fall somewhere in between, as ambiverts, who can harness the benefits of both networking and deep work.

Networking, often perceived as insincere, can be approached more genuinely by focusing on building friendships. Adam Rifkin, named the best networker in Silicon Valley, exemplifies this by helping others without expecting anything in return. This approach, endorsed by successful networkers and supported by research, fosters authentic connections.

Effective networking doesn't require grand gestures. Reconnecting with old friends, identifying superconnectors, and joining groups can expand one's network. Consistent follow-up is crucial, as it keeps relationships alive and strengthens bonds.

In business, making friends with colleagues can enhance team performance and career growth. Conversely, opting out of workplace social dynamics can hinder progress. Strong workplace relationships, characterized by mutual respect and understanding, are key to success.

Finally, gratitude is a powerful tool for maintaining and deepening relationships. Walter Green's yearlong quest to thank 44 people who shaped his life demonstrates the profound impact of expressing gratitude. His journey not only brought him peace but also inspired others to reflect on their own relationships.

In short, success is often about who you know. Building and maintaining genuine connections, whether through networking or expressing gratitude, can significantly impact one's career and personal fulfillment. So, embrace the power of relationships and make a habit of saying "thank you."

Embracing the Erdös Way: The Power of Networking and Gratitude in Success

In 1997, Garry Kasparov, the world's greatest chess master, faced off against IBM's supercomputer, Deep Blue. The match wasn't just about chess; it was a showdown between human intellect and machine intelligence. 

Kasparov had dominated the previous year, but this time, Deep Blue threw him off balance with an unexpected move. This seemingly brilliant but actually random move—a result of a software bug—shattered Kasparov's confidence, leading to his eventual defeat. The incident illustrates how perception of confidence can influence outcomes, sometimes more than actual competence.

Confidence can indeed propel people to success. Marshall Goldsmith noted that successful individuals often overestimate their abilities. Nikola Tesla, for instance, signed his work with "GI" for "Great Inventor." Studies show that self-assured people tend to earn more and are more likely to take on challenging tasks, which can lead to promotions and leadership roles. Yet, overconfidence can morph into hubris, leading to poor decisions and denial of reality, as seen in CEOs who overuse "I" in their communications and end up running their companies into the ground.

The story of the Ghost Army in World War II highlights how faked confidence can deceive even the most vigilant enemy. This unit used inflatable tanks and fake radio transmissions to mislead the Germans, proving that sometimes appearance alone can be a powerful tool. However, relying too much on faked confidence can backfire, as seen with martial artist Yanagi Ryuken, who genuinely believed in his no-touch knockout abilities until he was brutally defeated in a real fight.

At the extreme, we have the case of SM-046, a woman who literally cannot feel fear due to a rare genetic disorder. Her fearlessness led to numerous dangerous situations, showing that a complete lack of fear or overconfidence can be perilous. 

Humility and self-compassion offer a balanced alternative to raw confidence. Being self-compassionate means forgiving yourself for failures and maintaining a realistic view of your abilities, which fosters continuous improvement and lessens the risk of becoming a jerk or falling into denial. Research supports that self-compassion leads to greater happiness, resilience, and even wisdom, without the pitfalls of inflated self-esteem.

The tale of Emperor Norton I, who, despite losing his fortune and mind, confidently declared himself Emperor of the United States, shows that while confidence can lead to a unique form of success, it can also be purely delusional. Striking a balance between confidence and humility, grounded in self-compassion, appears to be the most sustainable path to genuine success and personal growth.

Can Overconfidence Lead to Success or Is It a Path to Failure?

Ted Williams, one of baseball’s greatest hitters, is legendary not just for his talent but for his obsessive work ethic. Williams didn’t play baseball; he lived it. From wishing on a falling star as a child to practice sessions that lasted until his hands bled, Williams epitomized dedication. He even studied physics at MIT to understand baseball better, leading to his classic book, The Science of Hitting. His relentless drive made him a perfectionist, sometimes to the detriment of his personal life and relationships.

Albert Einstein, another icon of human achievement, shares a similar story of dedication. Despite his genius, Einstein’s intense focus on his work strained his family relationships. His famous contract with his wife outlined strict conditions for their marriage, reflecting his prioritization of work over personal connections. His son Hans Albert’s poignant remark, “Probably the only project he ever gave up on was me,” underscores the personal cost of his professional success.

Such tales illustrate the paradox of extreme dedication: it brings unparalleled success but often at the expense of personal happiness and relationships. Harvard professor Dean Keith Simonton’s research confirms that greatness often requires a life organized solely around one’s passion, echoing the stories of Williams and Einstein.

Yet, relentless work isn't wholly beneficial. Overwork can lead to burnout, stress, and even early death, as seen in Japan’s karōshi phenomenon. Conversely, meaningful work that aligns with personal values can enhance longevity and happiness. Studies show those engaged in fulfilling careers live longer and experience less stress.

Finding a balance is crucial. Inspired by unconventional figures like Kazushi Sakuraba, a professional wrestler who became a legendary mixed martial artist, we learn that integrating fun and creativity into our pursuits can also lead to success. Sakuraba’s playful yet effective fighting style exemplifies the power of enjoying what you do.

Incorporating rest, play, and proper sleep is essential for productivity and creativity. Research indicates that relaxation and sleep significantly boost cognitive function and problem-solving abilities. Even short naps can enhance performance and mood, highlighting the importance of downtime.

Today’s world demands more than ever, with technology blurring the lines between work and personal life. The expectation to be constantly available creates stress and diminishes quality time with loved ones. Studies reveal that high expectations and endless choices contribute to dissatisfaction and stress, emphasizing the need for self-imposed boundaries.

To manage this, we can draw lessons from historical figures like Genghis Khan, who conquered vast territories through strategic planning and adaptability. Similarly, creating a personal plan that balances work and life priorities can help us achieve both professional success and personal fulfillment.

By tracking time, setting clear boundaries, and scheduling both work and leisure, we can navigate modern demands effectively. Discussing expectations with employers and prioritizing tasks can reduce stress and improve productivity. Ensuring quality time for relationships and self-care is equally important, as it contributes to overall well-being.

In essence, while dedication and hard work are vital for success, integrating rest, play, and meaningful engagement with our personal lives ensures that we don’t sacrifice happiness and relationships in the pursuit of greatness. Balancing these elements allows us to thrive both professionally and personally, leading to a more fulfilling life.

The Paradox of Dedication: Lessons from Ted Williams, Einstein, and the Pursuit of a Balanced Life

Life without pain might seem ideal, but it can be dangerous, highlighting that what seems advantageous can often be a burden. In the realm of success, being a traditional high achiever like a valedictorian often rewards conformity but rarely leads to groundbreaking innovation. 

Conversely, mavericks like Winston Churchill, who broke the mold, found success through unconventional paths. The right environment can transform seemingly negative traits into strengths, as seen in individuals with unique genetic traits who thrive under specific conditions.

Success isn't just about following rules; sometimes, rule-breakers and those who manage perceptions rather than just working hard can thrive. However, genuine success and happiness are often rooted in trust and cooperation, as seen even in unexpected places like criminal enterprises. Balancing grit with strategic quitting is crucial, as is maintaining a positive mindset and finding meaningful purpose in one's endeavors.

Networking is also vital; building genuine relationships and expressing gratitude can significantly impact success. Confidence, while important, must be balanced with humility and self-compassion to avoid the pitfalls of overconfidence. 

Lastly, while obsessive dedication can lead to extraordinary achievements, it often comes at the cost of personal well-being and relationships. Finding a balance between work and personal life, incorporating rest and play, and setting boundaries can lead to a more fulfilling and sustainable path to success.

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Barking Up the Wrong Tree: The Surprising Science Behind Why Everything You Know About Success Is (Mostly) Wrong

Eric Barker

7 Key ideas

21 MINS

4.8 (108)

Ever wondered how great personalities like Ted Williams and Albert Einstein balanced their relentless obsession with work and personal life?

How can we draw inspiration from historical figures like Genghis Khan to manage the modern work-life dilemma?

Want to uncover the secret behind the success of unconventional high achievers, and the importance of trust and cooperation in the realm of success?