As we approach the examination ‘season’ for many students in Years 7 to 11, I think it beneficial to offer some important information.
Let me begin with a disclaimer: in advocating the powerful virtue of these ‘10 Things that Require Zero Talent’, I am proposing that, despite the degree of academic success so far this year, your children are able to bring great qualities to bear on their final performance that will make a substantial difference. I am not advocating that talent is unnecessary.
We readily acknowledge the importance of talent. We have a ‘Talent Show’ that affirms that people have unique talents. We emphasise that, with the motivation of a good cause, a heart that yearns with compassion for others, and God-given creativity, we are able to make a difference in the lives of individuals and the community.
We acknowledge that people are gifted according to their purpose. These gifts are bestowed unevenly. The causes of individuality, community and freedom require that to be the case. Individuality is self-evident in that we must all be different. Community requires difference to succeed in the way that the Apostle Paul tells us that we are all parts of one body (1 Corinthians 12:12–27). Freedom requires diversity.
These last few weeks are still a time when students audit their academic progress and choose to become resigned to a less-than-ideal outcome. Comparison is the prime reason for this demotivation. Students compare their progress to their ideal and are persuaded by the distance remaining rather than by the progress made. Secondly, they compare themselves to others and are too often discouraged. Comparison is a scourge of achievement in this regard.
The 10 things can be the antidote in this regard. Everyone has them in equal measure.
The secret to their power is that they are a multiplier. Whatever talent you do have is multiplied by the application of these qualities. Consider the list carefully and you will see how every gift and talent would be amplified by applying the 10 things:
1. Being on time
2. Work ethic
3. Effort
4. Energy
5. Body language
6. Passion
7. Doing extra
8. Being prepared
9. Being coachable
10. Attitude
The equation might look something like this:
Unexpected Success = (Natural IQ) × (Passion × Effort × Attitude × Doing Extra × Being Coachable)
I encourage everyone to approach these last few weeks of 2025 with a powerful mix of audacious goals, a positive attitude, and a liberal sprinkling of these 10 things that require zero talent.
Wishing you well in your endeavours.