Worth reading Gladwell's books.

What is the key to success? Well, of course, we need to define what success is, a subject which has lately generated various interpretations. But for simplicity, we understand it as something that fell into the public taste, which is popular. Thus, the symphonies of Mozart, the songs of the Beatles and Bill Gates windows serve as a good example of what pop is.

I read recently Outliers - Out of Series , from Malcolm Gladwell . The book discusses how some people managed to stand out, or what they did to succeed. And for that, the author discusses the importance of culture, family, friends, ancestors of the origin and time of birth as determining factors in the performance of their projects. But the major issue addressed is the rule of 10,000 hours, researched by scholars.

She says that to achieve excellence, you must have an accumulation of 10,000 hours of practice, which would mean 20h/semana 40h/semana in 10 years or in five years. We tend to be simplistic in our analysis, finding that success and genius are due exclusively to the lapses of creativity, but it seems that recognition has more to do with sweat than with a good idea.

Gladwell cites the example of Mozart , recognized as a great genius. He began composing at around age 7 years and know it is true that some good pieces written at the time of his adolescence. But the great symphonies were written after 21, when he has accumulated well over 10,000 hours of practice, compositions and performances.

The Beatles, before bursting, bleeding fingers playing a lot. They had to live for more than 1,200 times at the invitation of an owner of a bar in Hamburg , Germany, between 1960 and 1964. Lennon and McCartney totaled more than 10 years of material together when they returned to England and burst in the world. At the time, they played like no other.

Gates also had his moment of grating. Gladwell had the opportunity to interview him and he told an inspiring story well. At the time of his adolescence, Gates had the opportunity to have in your school, a computer available to programs. Remember that this was in the 70's, historical moment when computers were rare. Thus, spent every possible hour programming, even on your vacation. The chance of having this practice time, the inspiration generated by Steve Jobs and an entrepreneurial vision led Microsoft and Windows.

At this point, I'm sure you're calculating the number of hours you have devoted himself to what you like. Remember: to be recognized, have discipline, consistency and dedication. Be prepared for opportunities because this is the only success factor that you can master. The others seem to be casualties.