The Talent Code

I am currently in the midst of reading "The Talent Code" by Daniel Coyle and let me just tell you, it is phenomenal. He talks about how human beings cultivate talent, not necessarily by genes or their environment, although these factors contribute significantly. Rather, he attributes talent to a brain mechanism called myelin... aka the insulation of neurons and synapses, which creates a broadband of information in the mind. The thicker this insulation, the greater the skill level. Even more interesting, this mechanism is not skill or gene specific... none of us are exempt from its advantages, meaning we each have the capacity to cultivate world-class expertise should we so desire. Furthermore, he goes on to describe what makes a world-class expert, these 3 categories being: deep practice, ignition (or motivation), and master coaching. Along with this description, Coyle compares different examples of talent through the ages, from the Bronte sisters to the Z-boys to the artists of the Florentine Renaissance, breaking down their seemingly "genius" capabilities that came out of nowhere to explain each of these cases had been cultivating talent from an extremely young age, deep practicing with a high level of commitment. A fantastic, inspiring read for parents and teachers in all fields and walks of life.