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Freakonomics Radio

244. How to Become Great at Just About Anything

Apr 28, 2016
Research psychologist Anders Ericsson discusses the overrated concept of talent and the importance of deliberate practice for excellence. The podcast explores the 10,000-hour rule, the debunking of talent myths, and the journey of a psychologist improving her singing abilities through rigorous practice.
48:04

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Expertise is achieved through deliberate practice, not innate talent.
  • Quality of deliberate practice is more crucial than quantity of hours.

Deep dives

The Power of Deliberate Practice in Achieving Excellence

Many individuals aspire to excel in various fields, whether in sports, music, or presentation skills. The podcast delves into the concept of deliberate practice as a key factor in achieving expertise. Through examples like psychologist Suzanne Bergman's journey in improving her singing, the importance of focused and goal-oriented practice is highlighted. Anders Ericsson's research on deliberate practice emphasizes the need to push beyond one's comfort zone, striving for incremental improvements in specific skill areas. The episode underscores that expertise is not solely about innate talent but a result of dedicated, focused practice.

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