Science Debunks Prodigy Myth: Multidisciplinary Path to Greatness Revealed

• A new study in the Science journal challenges the belief that early specialization leads to greatness.
• Researchers found world-class performers, including Olympic champions and Nobel laureates, often don't excel early.
• Led by Arne Güllich, the study shows top performers frequently engaged in multidisciplinary practice in formative years.
• Only 10% of high-performing children become elite adults, suggesting child prodigies are exceptions, not the rule.
• Exceptional adults achieve peak performance gradually through broader, multidisciplinary practice, unlike young specialists.

Why It Matters: New science suggests broad, gradual development, not early specialization, fosters world-class talent.