You Might Be a Late Bloomer: Discovering Life's Hidden Successes
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Chapter 1: The Journey of a Late Bloomer
Many individuals are often categorized as early achievers, but the stories of late bloomers reveal a different narrative. One such example is the renowned artist Paul Cézanne. Despite knowing from a young age that he wanted to pursue art, he initially followed his father's wishes and enrolled in law school. After two uninspired years, he decided to chase his dreams in Paris, only to face repeated rejections from prestigious art institutions like the École des Beaux-Arts.
Cézanne's early artistic career was marked by struggles. Between 1864 and 1869, his submissions to the Salon de Paris went unrecognized, and he eventually distanced himself from the Impressionists, who also faced rejection. By the time he reached middle age, Cézanne felt disheartened. He confided to a friend, expressing his worries about the lack of acknowledgment for his work and his fear of criticism. The years between 46 and 56 were particularly bleak, as his paintings remained unseen.
However, a shift occurred in 1895 when Cézanne held his first solo exhibition at the age of 56. By the time he turned 60, his art began to garner attention and sales, albeit at modest prices compared to his contemporaries. Eventually, he became celebrated, with fellow artists traveling to observe his creative process.
What fueled Cézanne's perseverance through decades of disappointment? One biographer noted his relentless drive and anxiety as key motivating factors. Even as he approached the end of his life, he remained dedicated to refining his craft, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to self-improvement.
Chapter 2: Society's Bias Toward Early Success
In today's world, society often favors early bloomers. Educational systems sort individuals by the age of 18, establishing hierarchies based on grades and standardized tests. Many celebrated figures, such as Bill Gates and Taylor Swift, achieved their fame at a young age, leading to a cultural fixation on early success. This focus on youth is further highlighted by media accolades like "30 Under 30," which glorify youthful achievers.
However, research reveals that significant accomplishments frequently emerge later in life. A study from Denmark indicated that Nobel Prize winners typically made their groundbreaking discoveries at around 44 years of age. In fact, the average age for U.S. patent applicants is 47. Further studies have shown that entrepreneurs tend to achieve greater success as they age, with the likelihood of startup success increasing well into their 50s.
Numerous late bloomers serve as prime examples of this phenomenon. Morgan Freeman found his breakthrough roles in his 50s, while Colonel Sanders launched Kentucky Fried Chicken in his 60s. Each of these individuals illustrates that the journey to success can take many forms and often unfolds over decades.
Section 2.1: What Sets Late Bloomers Apart
Rich Karlgaard, in his book "Late Bloomers," explores why certain individuals do not achieve success earlier in life and what unique traits they possess that enable them to flourish later. Unlike their early-blooming counterparts, late bloomers often exhibit different abilities that may go unnoticed by traditional educational systems. They tend to forge their own paths, fulfilling their potential in unconventional ways.
This classification of achievement can be divided into three categories. The first includes early bloomers like Picasso, who achieved success through innovative breakthroughs. The second category comprises "second-mountain people," who find fulfillment in serving others after conquering their initial career goals. The final group, known as "the masters," includes individuals like Cézanne who may have struggled early on but continued to improve over time.
Section 2.2: Traits of Late Bloomers
Late bloomers often exhibit intrinsic motivation, driven by personal curiosity rather than external rewards. While extrinsic motivation systems reward compliance with societal expectations, those motivated by their interests tend to explore deeper into their passions. This intrinsic drive fosters resilience and adaptability, key characteristics that enable late bloomers to thrive.
Additionally, many late bloomers go through a phase of exploration, engaging in diverse experiences before honing in on their true calling. This "sampling period" allows them to develop a wide array of skills and insights that contribute to their later success.
Chapter 3: The Transformative Power of Learning
Late bloomers often possess a remarkable ability to self-educate, driven by a high need for cognition. They embrace challenges and seek knowledge, demonstrating a balance between confidence and humility. This combination fosters a lifelong learning mindset, allowing them to accumulate wisdom over time.
The commitment to a specific endeavor is crucial for late bloomers. They must eventually channel their intrinsic motivation into a focused pursuit. Ray Kroc's journey exemplifies this; after years of exploration, he discovered the efficiency of a fast-food restaurant and transformed it into a franchise empire.
Section 3.1: Embracing Change and Curiosity
Late bloomers typically approach life with an open mind, constantly seeking new experiences and ideas. This mindset allows them to adapt and refine their goals, ultimately leading to satisfaction in their pursuits.
The journey of a late bloomer is not merely about achieving a singular goal; it is about finding joy in the process of discovery and learning. As the artist Henri Moore stated, the essence of life lies in pursuing a task that captivates one’s attention and devotion.
In summary, late bloomers challenge the notion that success is solely defined by early achievements. Their journeys remind us that persistence, curiosity, and a commitment to growth can lead to extraordinary accomplishments, often in unexpected ways.