Self-Help
Barking Up the Wrong Tree
Eric Barker
3.8 (24000) 8 min read 5 key ideas
A myth-busting look at counterintuitive research on what actually predicts success — often the opposite of the traits schools and society reward.
Key takeaways
- School Traits That Predict Success Often Differ From Career Traits
- Networks Often Matter More Than Raw Talent
- Grit and Passion for a Specific Pursuit Beats General Intelligence
- Extreme Success Requires Trade-Offs That Don't Fit 'Balanced' Advice
- Success and Contentment Aren't the Same Axis
Action checklist
- Identify whether you're a 'specialist' or 'generalist' in your strengths, and lean into that identity this week
- Reach out to one 'weak tie' contact you haven't spoken to in a while — a common source of opportunity
- Redefine your personal measure of success today, rather than using someone else's definition
Final takeaway
His closing challenge to readers: get explicit about which you're actually pursuing before adopting any specific success strategy uncritically.
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