Is it Talent or Ambition?

Question

Hi everyone,

I have a friend who is very determined when she has set her mind on something she wants to do. For example 2 years ago, she said she wanted to start drawing manga and at first, her drawings weren't that good. But just after 3 months her drawing became like this:

http://img57.imageshack.us/my.php?image=scann17ez0.jpg

http://img68.imageshack.us/my.php?image=siblingsso2.jpg

Obviously today, she is able to draw better than this.

The same goes for other things she said she was interested in. Just within a couple of weeks or months she was able to do it.

Today she just told me that she wanted to learn how to play the piano/keyboard without any piano lessons and learning to play it by ear. I really wonder what it is that makes her accomplish all those things. Of course it is practice. But is there also some kinda talent that's in her or is it rather her determination?

Answer 1

we're all born with 1 of 7 gifts or is it 1 of 6 I can't remember it's somewhere in scripture, possibly your friends gift is in drawing, therefor she would have an advantage over someone who's gift was in a different area.

Answer 2

Talent clearly plays a part here, but even more important is ambition and determination and the willingness to do whatever it takes to learn and improve.  There are a lot of talented people out there who never accomplish much because they're not willing to do the work.  

Your friend deserves a lot of credit.  I'm sure she will do very well at whatever career field she decides to get into :-)  

Answer 3

I am very careful how I toss around the word "talent".

Your friend may very well be talented.  If so, that's great.  But determination and practice leads to skill.  Nearly anyone can learn a skill if they have the dedicaiton.

Talent, however, is inherent.  You are born with it and if you don't have it, you never will.

I think too many people confuse skill and talent.  A skilled artist can be good, but only a talented artist can be great.

I'm not trying to belittle your friend, there is much to be admired about her accomplishments and drive.  I wish her all the luck in the world.

If you combine talent, skill and luck, than you have something special.

Answer 4

Just sounds like she wants to do allot of things, it doesn't matter if she is good at it or not, at least she is going out there and trying to experience it, which is the best thing she can get out of all of it.

I didn't click on your link, I don't click links from this board.