The common belief that relentless, early practice is the key to becoming the best in the world is being challenged by new research. A study published in Science reveals that world-class performers often emerge not from childhood prodigies, but from individuals who develop expertise later in life, sometimes after exploring multiple disciplines.
Debunking the “10,000-Hour Rule”
For years, the “10,000-hour rule”— popularized by Malcolm Gladwell’s Outliers — suggested that dedicated practice of 10,000 hours would guarantee mastery. However, this idea has been undermined by the new findings. The original 1993 study of elite violinists, which inspired the rule, showed high practice hours but did not prove a direct link to world-class achievement.
Brooke Macnamara, a co-author of the new analysis, explains that elite performers often started their chosen field later than their merely “very good” counterparts. They typically engaged in diverse activities early on, excelling in multiple areas before focusing and reaching the top. This means they accumulated less specialized practice initially, but ultimately surpassed early starters.
Why Late Bloomers Win
The study’s results surprised researchers like Zach Hambrick, who initially found the idea counterintuitive. The core insight is that expertise is not solely about hours spent in one discipline, but about the broader development of skills and adaptability. Top athletes, musicians, and chess players tend to peak later, outperforming those who showed early promise but failed to maintain momentum.
This pattern challenges traditional training methods. Institutions and coaches often invest heavily in early bloomers, potentially overlooking individuals with greater long-term potential.
The Importance of Adaptability and Persistence
The research doesn’t negate the need for practice, but it redefines it. Elite performance isn’t just about raw hours; it’s about consistently performing under pressure and adapting over time. Children may lose interest or burn out, so true mastery requires sustained effort and evolution.
Edson Filho, an expert in sports psychology, notes that external factors like funding and coaching also play a critical role. The study highlights a shift in thinking: early talent isn’t destiny.
A Message for Late Starters
The implications are clear: if you didn’t dominate youth leagues or win early competitions, don’t give up. Most world-class performers follow a different path. As Macnamara puts it, “For people who didn’t follow the prodigy route, know you are in good company!” The path to greatness may be meandering, but it’s not closed off to those who develop later.
