The Role of High IQ in Achieving Success: An Analysis

Consider my experience preparing for the Civil Services Examination (CSE) in 1988 alongside my M Tech studies at IIT Delhi. There was a standout individual named SK who topped the Electrical Engineering (EE) program at IIT Kanpur. He achieved India's first rank in the Engineering Service Examination in 1988. We all anticipated him to take the top rank in the civil services, a competitive examination conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).

However, much to our surprise, SK did not make it to the final list when the UPSC CSE result was announced in 1989. Upon reviewing his mark sheet, he discovered that he had scored very poor marks in EE during the CSE, despite scoring decently in his other optional subject, Physics. Driven by his brilliance, he decided to switch his optional to mathematics after the Prelims, despite only having about three months left for the Mains Examination. Less than a month of preparation proved enough for him, and he secured the fourth rank in the UPSC CSE 1990. This remarkable turnaround raises the question: Why did an exceptionally talented individual like SK achieve success while many others struggled or failed?

While it may be politically incorrect to suggest that intelligence (IQ) plays a significant role in life, the truth is that it significantly influences one's success. Take, for instance, the legendary basketball player Michael Jordan, who played 15 seasons in the National Basketball Association (NBA) between 1984 and 2003, winning six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls. His exceptional height of 6'6" was one of the key factors behind his success. Can we imagine him becoming one of the top players if he were as short as me, at 5'6"?

Similarly, in every field, whether it be sports, music, science, or politics, a certain type of aptitude or talent is required to excel. If you follow the rat race and aim to excel in a field where you don't possess the talent or ability, you are virtually guaranteed to be the loser, as beautifully illustrated by the accompanying cartoon. This emphasizes the irreplaceable role of innate talent in success.

Talent, such as IQ, can only provide you with a certain advantage. When competing against highly talented individuals, hard work becomes the determining factor. However, you cannot do anything about your height, IQ, or looks. What you can control is the amount of effort you put into your chosen field, provided it aligns with your natural aptitude or talent.

It is a common misconception that everyone can achieve greatness, whether it be becoming an Einstein, Michael Jordan, or Gandhi. But many of us can achieve far more than we have actually accomplished. Many people fail to reach their full potential either because they don't work hard enough or because they choose to compete in fields where their talent is lacking.

In conclusion, while having a high IQ can provide a significant advantage, it is not the sole determinant of success. Talent and hard work are both crucial elements. By understanding and aligning our efforts with our natural aptitudes, we can maximize our potential for success. As illustrated by the stories of SK, Michael Jordan, and many others, success is a result of a combination of innate talent and perseverance.

Source of picture: Google Images