“It’s not that I’m so smart, it’s just that I stay with problems longer.”
- Albert Einstein (Physicist.)
How often do you hear comments like, “I’m no Einstein” or “It’s so easy for them?” “Education for Joe or Sally or Zane just comes naturally, and they don’t have to work at all!”
It is a common sentiment among students to think that other students seem to learn facts and concepts effortlessly. The idea that learning comes easily to someone else can be both disheartening and frustrating.
Here is the truth. What looks like effortless brilliance is often the result of hard work, persistence; and, sometimes, a whole lot of trial and error. Many of the students you admire for their academic success are putting in just as much time and effort – if not more – than you are. They may be quietly dedicating hours of practice, reading, and revisiting concepts that are difficult for them, all while making it seem like everything just “clicks.”
Trust me, I have met with and worked with some of these so-called “genius” students. They are often surprised when other students think that they have it easy. They have been so focused on studying and doing their homework that they never noticed others admiring their relaxed and easy lifestyle!
My own journey in learning has been filled with challenges. Not everything comes easily to me either, and I still face obstacles that require patience and determination. Progress often takes longer than expected; and, sometimes, it feels like I’m hitting a wall. But what I have learned over the years is that growth is not always linear. It is about persistence, resilience, and not being afraid to fail along the way. I, too, have been accused of “having it easy” because sometimes is appears that I learn quickly and without effort.
When you are stuck on a concept or a task, it is easy to feel like you are never going to understand. Take a moment to think about something you truly enjoy – maybe it’s a sport, a video game, or even a hobby. Now, think about the countless hours you have spent practising, failing, and trying again.
Whether it is making a basketball shot, leveling up in a game, or perfecting a dance move, those hours of practice add up – generally without you even noticing.
What if you applied that same level of dedication to your studies? What if you spent as much time working on that tricky algebra section as you do practising your favourite hobby? The results might surprise you. Learning is like building any other skill. It takes time, patience, and practice.
Not every concept will hit on the first try, and that’s okay. Some things will take time to fully understand, and you will probably have to approach learning tasks from different angles. The key is not giving up. Keep pushing, keep trying, and don’t be discouraged by setbacks. The “genius” sitting next to you might just be the one who stayed with the problem a little loner, put in extra hours, and kept at it.
In the end, what matters most is not how quickly or easily the learning comes to you, but your determination to stick with it. Remember the quotation - Einstein stayed with problems longer than others. Maybe he did not see all that effort as work. You don’t have to either! Look at your efforts as goal seeking, positive, and a beautiful path to knowledge.
Changing your outlook can often help get you motivated and keep you on track. The road to success isn’t always smooth, but with persistence, the path will eventually become clearer.
Need a little help finding that path?
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