When I think of talent vs effort, I think of a 100m race.
An unfair 100m race where not every runner starts from the same point.
Instead of everyone beginning from 0m, your starting point is determined by your level of talent.
Those who have been gifted with immense talent are starting extremely close to the finish line. Those with some talent are starting at half way and those without any talent at all are starting at the very beginning.
While the immensely gifted have an enviable head start it has the inherent danger of leading to arrogance and complacency.
I think those starting without any talent at all could be in the best position, because if they make any progress whatsoever they will know it was down to hard work and not talent. A valuable insight to know, if one wants to improve.
I think talent gives you a great head start but it’s just that, a head start. It’s not the finished product and if not supported with hard work it will waste away.
As Rugby referees used to shout at me:
‘Use it or lose it!’
Thomas Duggan 