First, you need to understand one thing: people who have achieved great success did not do so because of their genes. The myth that we are born with unchangeable abilities is simply false. It is a lie that some people are born smart and others will never be. Our brain is flexible and adaptable – we can shape and develop it through practice and continuous effort.
Neuroplasticity, a field of scientific research, has proven that our brain constantly changes and evolves – at any age! We are not born with a brain fixed on certain talents. Throughout our lives, networks of neurons form that are responsible for our abilities. The saying “practice makes perfect” is therefore 100% true.
Anders Ericsson, who researched intelligence and hard work for many years, said that Einstein, Mozart, and Newton were not born with extraordinary abilities. What truly made them special was their perseverance, diligence, and constant mental challenge. They trained their brains with complex tasks – not with innate talent. In one of our articles, we already mentioned that Einstein didn’t get into college at first and started speaking very late.
An Extraordinary Story
When Nicholas started school, his teachers told his parents that he was the worst student in 20 years and had an extremely low IQ. But his mother didn’t believe it. She took over his education herself. In 2018, she published the book “Inverted,” describing her experiences. That same year, Nicholas Letchford earned his PhD in Applied Mathematics from the University of Oxford!
And this is just one of many similar success stories. In the upcoming articles, you’ll discover more examples and scientific studies showing how much influence you have over your brain and your abilities.
How to Develop the Brain?
Brain research has revealed something astonishing: the key to development is to tackle difficult and challenging tasks – and make mistakes along the way! That’s when brain activity is at its peak. Neural networks strengthen, synapses are activated – this is how growth and development happen.
So challenge yourself constantly, try new things, make mistakes, and learn from them. You’ll come to appreciate your own efforts – because they bring you closer to your personal abilities and goals.
The Self-Fulfilling Prophecy
Studies show that children from disadvantaged groups perform worse when they are labeled as “weaker” – not because they actually are, but because they try less. International comparative studies show that schools perform best when they avoid dividing students by performance.
So if you constantly tell yourself that you are weak or incapable, it will become your reality. But if you believe in yourself and are convinced you’ll achieve what you set out to do – you will. That is the power of the self-fulfilling prophecy.
“Whether you think you can or you think you can’t – you’re right.” – Henry Ford
This article is based on the book “The Brain That Changes Itself” by Dr. Norman Doidge.
