This book is the result of a collaboration between two individuals: a psychological scientist and a science writer. Our discussions on the topic of expert performers and "deliberate practice" began over a decade ago, and our serious work on the book started more than five years ago. Throughout this period, the book evolved through our collaborative efforts, making it challenging for us to distinguish who contributed to which parts of it. What we can affirm is that the book has become significantly better and different from what either of us would have produced independently. While it's a joint endeavor, the narrative is primarily centered on one of us, Ericsson, who has dedicated his adult life to studying exceptional performers. Thus, when reading the text, the "I" should be interpreted as referring to him. Nevertheless, the book represents our combined effort to elucidate this profoundly significant subject and its implications.
Why do some individuals excel so remarkably in their respective fields? In various domains, including competitive sports, music, science, medicine, and business, we frequently encounter individuals who astound us with their abilities. We tend to believe that these extraordinary individuals possess an innate gift, saying things like "He is incredibly talented" or "She has a natural gift." But is that the whole story? For over three decades, I have closely examined these exceptional people – the experts who stand out in their areas of expertise, be it athletes, musicians, chess players, doctors, salespeople, teachers, and more. I have meticulously dissected their skills, studied their methods, interviewed them, and conducted assessments. I've delved into the psychological, physiological, and neuroanatomical aspects of their exceptional abilities. As time passed, I've come to realize that yes, these individuals do possess a unique gift, a key component of their capabilities. However, it's not the gift that people commonly assume it to be, and it's even more potent than one might imagine. Crucially, it is a gift that every one of us is inherently born with and can harness, provided we follow the correct approach.
