In almost every discipline, success comes from a combination of talent and courage. But if you listen to most famous personalities describe their life journeys, they will speak lyrically about their painstaking grafting while downplaying the role of their innate abilities.
Thomas Edison claimed that "genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration". "Talent without a job is nothing," said Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo when asked about the secret of his success on the pitch.
But recent psychological research suggests that overemphasizing the importance of hard work can backfire – thanks to a phenomenon known as "natural bias." Research shows that people have more respect for those who are gifted than those who have to fight for success.
In consumer psychology, the term "natural bias" is often used to describe our preference for natural goods rather than synthetic ones. Author Malcolm Gladwell explains, "On a fundamental level, the closer we think something is to its original state, the less adulterated, the preferable it is."
This bias operates under conscious awareness, and its consequences can be very unfair. For example, in recruitment, if an interviewer believes that their achievement comes from talent, then they may prefer a less qualified candidate over a more accomplished candidate who has shown courage and determination.
Natural biases can affect the way we present ourselves to others, so our accomplishments don't go unduly unduly. According to a survey that surveyed 6,000 college alumni about their attitudes as business leaders, 80% focused on their effort and discipline rather than their innate abilities when asked to describe their career journey. One reason could be that most people want to avoid appearing arrogant and think that focusing on hard work rather than talent can make them look more grounded.
The most sensible solution may be to describe our success in more detail, rather than focusing on just one factor. Whether it's a 99-to-1 ratio of inspiration and sweat, or a 50:50 ratio, you can acknowledge how these two traits have led to your success.