JOURNAL ARTICLE

The child prodigy who beats you at chess when you're a kid is going to fade away in adulthood 90% of the time, study says.

  • Published In: Fortune.com, 2026. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Business Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Angelo, Jake 3 of 3

Abstract

The article discusses a study that analyzes the relationship between early peak performance and later success among high achievers across various fields, including Nobel laureates and elite athletes. The research, led by Arne Güllich, indicates that early specialization often leads to short-term success, while individuals who develop later, referred to as "late bloomers," tend to achieve greater long-term success across multiple disciplines. The findings challenge the common belief that early signs of talent are essential for future achievement, suggesting that elite training may even contribute to burnout and mental health issues among gifted children. The study highlights the need for further research to understand the complexities of early development and its impact on adult success. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Fortune.com. 2026/01, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Literature and Writing
  • Publication Date:2026
  • Accession Number:190801340
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