Little Book of Talent by Daniel Coyle, (00) Introduction, Notes

Post date: Oct 10, 2018 12:44:47 PM

Little Book of Talent by Daniel Coyle

INTRODUCTION

Talent is determined far less by our genes and far more by our actions: specifically, the combination of intensive practice and motivation that produces brain growth. The advice in this text is field-tested, scientifically sound, and, most important, concise: Always exaggerate new moves; Shrink the practice space; and take lots of naps. The tips are brief because simplicity is the point. The basic truth: Small actions, repeated over time, transform us. To develop talent, follow the proven techniques learned from those who are best at developing talent.

• • How to use this book. The methods and techniques fall into three natural categories:

    • Getting Started: ideas for igniting motivation and creating a blueprint for the skills you want to build.

    • Improving Skills: methods and techniques for making the most progress in the least time.

    • Sustaining Progress: strategies for overcoming plateaus, keeping motivational fires lit, and building habits for long-term success.

  • “This ain’t magic, and it ain’t rocket science. It’s about working hard, and working smart.”--Linda Septien, Master Vocal Coach

  • We are born with the machinery to transform beginners’ clumsiness into fast, fluent action. That machinery is not controlled by genes, it’s controlled by us. Each day, each practice session, is a step toward a different future. This is a hopeful idea. The most hopeful thing about it is that it is a fact.

  • “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.”—ARISTOTLE