Talent or sheer determination?

Question

Which factor of a person's success do you think is more admirable?

1) innate talent and/or intelligence

or

2) sheer determination?

I would go for the 1st. Any opinions?

Answer 1

It's better to have a little of #1 and a lot of #2 than the other way around.

I've seen people who are marginally talented (in the arts) work very hard and rise to the top, while people who are brilliant but lazy don't get anywhere.

Answer 2

Hmm...I believe the second. Both are admirable, but I believe that it shows who you are to have determination, and is therefore more commendable.

Answer 3

Determined but talentless people seem to be a lot more successful than talented people who do very little.

Answer 4

I think it depends what it is..... But it's probably a combination of both in most cases.

Generally, If you are passionate about something, you will spend more time 'practicing' it and therefore will be better at it.... But if it's something like singing, acting, dancing you either have talent or you don't.

I think we don't place enough emphasis on 'emotional intelligence' either - But that's a different story....

Answer 5

determination that succeeds is far more admirable than someone with natural gifts.