How do you know when you are talented at something?

So,  you think you've got what it takes. … But have you stopped to ask the all important question:

How do I know when I am talented at something?

1.   Curiosity

Often over looked and always underrated, but to me this is

a gift and the starting point of all talent.

Ask the simple question does the subject peck your curiosity? What is it that fascinates you? Do you really want to know how it all works?

For example I am into Music and Entertainment so I often find myself looking at weird little details and things that other people don’t really pay attention to. So when I walk into a music store and pick up a CD for example, I immediately look at the small details like the Name of the Record companies involved in the project, the studio it was recorded in, who owns the publishing, who did the distribution, what is the manager’s name, who does the A &R etc.

2. That Little Extra

This is the important one. Because if you do have that little spark of talent your ability to practice it a little longer, and a little harder than others without getting bored (uninterested) is the key to shaping whatever talent you posses.  I’m reminded of a documentary I saw on David Beckham. And what he said in an interview. He said that after normal practice with the rest of the team he would spend a little extra time practicing his Free Kick taking.

 The Result? A footballer with an uncanny ability to pick out players and frequently hit the target. He is currently England's most-capped outfield player with 112 appearances and in 2004 he was the world's highest-paid footballer.  That little extra, helped make him extraordinary.

The other example that comes to mind is that of doctors. They spend 5 – 7 years studying after High school; they write exams and do plenty of extra homework. All this so that when you step into their consultation room they can hopefully tell you what’s wrong. And when you get the bill, you are not paying for the five minute consultation. You are paying for the years of that little extra that they put into their career.

3. Passion

Often people associate passion with that warm fuzzy feeling you get when you love something. When actually this word refers to the Greek ‘Passio’ – Referring mainly to the Passion of Christ – The pain and suffering he had to endure during his crucifixion on the cross – Because God so loved the world that he gave His only begotten son. (John 3:16)

Now God willing you won’t have to die for what you are passionate about but the bottom line is; are you willing to endure and suffer long periods to become good at your craft. Think carefully before answering this one. And consider the above examples in point number 2.

Are you willing to pay the price to get knowledge and experience? Are you willing to perhaps do it for free for a season until you become so good at it that someone is now willing to pay you for it?

Can you handle the rejection and failure and still get back on your feet?

So my friends, I hope you think twice when you say you’re passionate about something.

(I.e. if you say you’re passionate about food, you better be a darn good chef, and not just fat!)

4. Talents Tipping Point

At this stage your talent becomes something that others can now see in you.

It shouldn’t just be your mom and dad or close significant other who say you are talented at something. – Although in their defense: They would/should probably be the first to spot your talent. Because hopefully they are close enough to you and thus have seen you go through each of the previous stages.

But if they’re the only ones that see it then I suggest you begin to widen your circle and ask for outsiders honest opinions. And don’t just go looking for what you want to hear.

All you have to do is watch an episode of Pop Idols to see how many people "THINK" they are talented.

If you can tick these 4 points in all honesty; Then congratulations my friend… You’ve got Talent!

Basically what this boils down to is that talent is something you take to naturally and it brings a great joy to your life. It gives you a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment -Like you are doing something you were meant to do all your life.

And when all is said and done it is important to remember that talent alone is not enough.

Take Aways: 

1. Curiosity may have killed the cat. But for the talented, it's their number one friend. 

2. The difference between ordinary and extraordinary, is that little extra

3. Passion. Get some and hold on to it. 

4. Learn to trust the process and look for the Tipping Point.