(photo: Nathan Dumlao)
I train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and see examples of both talent and skill on a scale.
Talent is the new young guy who comes in and learns moves so quickly and seemingly effortlessly that it can make you green with envy. It’s just so much easier for him than other newbies who come along.
Skills is our upper belts who got to where they were with hard work. They can handle the talented guy and others with practiced precision.
It may not have been as easy for some of them as it was for others, but they’re still highly respected and very legit.
Talent without skill is meaningless. Who cares if you have a natural aptitude if you never develop it.
Skill can beat talent if skill works harder and tries longer. Talent + Skill is the stuff of legends.