From VICE · Ashley Fike · · 50s
5 Myths About Success Science Debunks
Science debunks 5 common success myths with data.
In brief
Science debunks 5 common success myths with data. Science shows practice alone, rewards, mindset workshops, grit, and passion aren't reliable success factors. Originally reported by VICE.
Head Heat Myth
Your head loses 10% of body heat, but sugar doesn't cause childhood tantrums.
Practice Alone Myth
Deliberate practice explains 26% of game performance differences but less than 1% in professional jobs.
Rewards Myth

Rewards don't ruin motivation under most conditions, but can hurt in specific situations.
Mindset Workshop Myth
Growth mindset workshops show little academic improvement, especially when researchers have financial ties.
Grit Myth
Grit has only a modest connection to success, mostly covered by conscientiousness.
Passion Myth
Passion develops through experience, not waiting for it to strike.
The main idea
Science shows practice alone, rewards, mindset workshops, grit, and passion aren't reliable success factors.



