The Gap Between the Top 1% and the Top 10%: A Quest for Genius
There is a stark difference between achieving excellence within the top 1% and pushing beyond to reach the top 10%, and the story of my experience at Allegheny College serves as a profound illustration of this gap. Specifically, my D in Professor Al Kern's Creative Writing class encapsulates the subtle yet significant distinctions between those who achieve and those who truly excel.
The D in Creative Writing: A Lesson in Attribution
In the fall of 1998, I enrolled in a Creative Writing course that would forever change my perspective on genius and talent. Professor Al Kern, a literary giant in his own right, pushed boundaries and expectations. My first assignment was a short story. I poured my heart into the piece, but in the end, I received a D. This grade was the result of Professor Kern's rigorous standards and the stark contrast between my work and what he was looking for.
A Love Affair: The Distraction of the Moment
While academic performance took a back seat, another experience was consuming my days and nights. I was having a love affair with a beautiful French language assistant who was a passionate chain-smoker. She sat in front of a "No Smoking" sign, a symbol of rebellion and freedom from societal norms, and she embraced it with all her might.
Genius vs. Talent: A Proverbial Examination
The requirement for genius, according to Professor Kern, is to do what must be done. Talent, on the other hand, is defined as doing what can be done. This simple yet poignant dichotomy highlights the core differences between the top 1% and the top 10%. Genius demands a level of dedication and a willingness to embrace challenges that talent may avoid or perceive as too daunting.
Understanding Lessons from Creative Writing
It is through the lens of Professor Kern's course that we can better understand the distinction between achieving within the top 1% and striving to be in the top 10%. The D in Creative Writing was not meant to be a final judgement, but rather an invitation for introspection and growth. It was an opportunity to embrace the challenges and push beyond the boundaries of comfort and convention.
The Power of Determination and Focus
For many, the top 10% is where inspiration meets consistent effort. It is where the wellspring of creativity meets the rigor of discipline. It is where the pursuit of excellence becomes a relentless quest, driving one to continually elevate their game and push the boundaries of what is possible. This quest is not solely about achievement but about the journey of personal and professional growth.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
Understanding the difference between the top 1% and the top 10% begins with acknowledging the standards set by those who drive the pursuit of excellence. It is a call to embrace challenges, push limits, and strive for not just success, but genius. Whether you are a student, an entrepreneur, or a professional, the lessons learned from this experience can guide you towards achieving more than you ever thought possible.
As Professor Kern said, 'Genius does what it must; talent does what it can.' Let this be your motto as you embark on your own journey of discovery and growth.