The Role of IQ in Success: Insights from Elite Examinations and Outstanding Achievers

The relationship between IQ and success has long been a topic of debate. While some argue that success is solely determined by hard work and perseverance, others believe that certain innate abilities play a crucial role. This article delves into the importance of IQ in achieving success, drawing insights from elite examinations and the stories of some outstanding achievers.

Context and Case Studies

I was preparing for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) in 1988, while concurrently pursuing my M Tech from IIT Delhi. During this time, there was a fellow named SK, who was the topper in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kanpur. He secured India's first rank in the Engineering Service Examination in 1988 and was expected to do the same for civil services. However, when the UPSC CSE result was released in 1989, he was not in the final list. Upon examining his mark sheet, it was evident that he had poor scores in Electrical Engineering while achieving decent marks in Physics. The disappointment did not deter him. He opted to change his optional subject to mathematics after the Prelims, a decision that paid off as he secured the fourth rank in the UPSC CSE 1990.

SK's experience raises a critical question: Is IQ indeed impactful in achieving success?

IQ and Success: An Analytical Perspective

While it may be politically incorrect to claim that IQ is the key determinant of success, the evidence suggests that it plays a significant role. IQ can be seen as a measure of cognitive abilities, which are crucial for efficient problem-solving, decision-making, and learning. In various high-pressure environments such as competitive examinations, these abilities can indeed provide an edge.

Success in High-Pressure Environments

SK's remarkable turnaround highlights the substantial impact of IQ on success. In the competitive examination realm, where thousands of candidates vie for limited spots, even slight cognitive advantages can make a significant difference. This is not merely limited to exams; it can be observed in various fields where intellect is a critical success factor.

Legendary Success: Michael Jordan

The example of Michael Jordan further emphasizes the significance of innate talent. As one of the greatest basketball players in history, Jordan revolutionized the game during his tenure from 1984 to 2003. His ability to secure six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls is attributed not only to his exceptional skills but also to his considerable height (6’6” or 198 cm).

Imagine if Jordan had been of average height, 5’6” (168 cm), like me. The long-term success and impact of his career might have been markedly different. This scenario underscores the importance of talent, even in traditionally recognized physical fields like sports.

The Interplay of Talent and Hard Work

IQ and talent can offer a head start, but hard work becomes the ultimate deciding factor when competing with a pool of highly talented individuals. One can improve cognitive abilities through appropriate training, but innate talent provides a crucial foundation. The cartoon highlights how the lack of the right aptitude or natural talent can lead to failure, regardless of how much one works.

Examples abound where individuals who excel in their chosen fields possess a certain type of aptitude or talent that sets them apart. Einstein, Michael Jordan, and Mahatma Gandhi all share innate talents that have been instrumental in their achievements. However, countless others can narrow the gap and achieve success by focusing on their natural strengths and working diligently.

Conclusion and Reflection

While IQ and other innate abilities can provide a significant advantage, hard work and dedication are crucial for sustained success. It is imperative to align one's efforts with their inherent aptitude or natural talent. By doing so, one can maximize their potential and achieve greater success than one might have initially believed possible.

Remember, not everyone can be an Einstein, Michael Jordan, or Gandhi, but many can achieve much greater success than they have actually achieved.

Source of picture: Google Images