Pressure and 'specialization' at a young age is harmful (Picture Courtesy: Freepik)
Smart View- Complete news, in short words
Lifestyle Desk, New Delhi. It is often believed that those children who excel in studies, sports or music in childhood, achieve great success in future. But a recent new study challenges this common belief. According to research, only 10% of the top performing children in childhood grow up to become world class performers in their respective fields.
Yes, that means initial success is not a guarantee of future. Many more surprising things have come to light in this study, about which you must know. Let us know.
Excellent performer becomes topper
For this study, researchers analyzed the data of about 35 thousand people. These included high achievers such as Olympic athletes, famous musicians, Nobel Prize winners and chess grandmasters. The results were shocking. The study found that most of those who reached the top of their fields as adults were average or normal performers in childhood. There were very few who remained at the top continuously since childhood.
Being a topper in childhood is not a guarantee of success
Arne Gullich, co-author of the study and professor of sports science at Germany's RPTU University, says that some children are indeed exceptionally talented and they go on to become top performers, but such cases are the exception, not the rule. This makes it clear that being number one in childhood is not the only path to success.
Diversity is more important than specialization
Research also revealed that people who were successful for a long time did not focus on only one area in childhood. They maintained a balance between sports, music, studies or other activities and gained different experiences. He devoted less time to his main field, but also seriously explored other interests.
According to this study, it is more beneficial to give children diverse experiences at a very young age rather than specializing in one field. If a child is active in two other activities along with his main field, then it is considered to be the best balance for mental and physical development.
Question on 10 thousand hours theory
This study also challenges the popular “10 thousand hours of practice” theory, according to which long and continuous practice is necessary to become an expert in any field. Experts say that based on this thinking, many parents put pressure on their children to start early and practice more. However, research shows that starting early does not guarantee success.
Too much pressure at a young age can be harmful
According to the study, excessive focus on one thing in childhood can increase mental stress and pressure in children. Especially junior athletes perform well in the beginning, but later their progress stops or they quickly become victims of fatigue and burnout. Variety, balance, and respect for children's interests are essential for long-term success.