Which is More Important: Intelligence or Self Control?
/The short answer is self control. The ability to maintain focus and self control in a variety of situations is the strongest predictor of success in adulthood. It is more important than IQ, education level, gender, and family income. Although the latter certainly contribute to success in school and adulthood, they are extremely difficult to change. Focus and self control, on the other hand, can be nurtured, taught, and improved over time. And it's one area where you as a parent can have great influence (aside from your genetic contributions).
Here is what we know, based on the research:
Focus and self control are the strongest predictors of success in adulthood -- stronger even than IQ -- and important throughout the lifespan -- not just in childhood. In fact, for 8th graders, self discipline was two times greater a predictor of final grades than IQ.
Self control is not innate. Whereas IQ has a strong genetic component, early self-control skills have a strong environmental component as well, meaning they can be shaped, nurtured, taught.
Self control skills can change over time. IQ is fairly consistent over time and resistant to change, but self control is more malleable and easier to change through intervention.
This is one of my favorite talks to give, and a great topic for a multi-week discussion group, because much of the focus is on practical, hands-on ways to nurture self control at whatever developmental stage your child is facing.
I'm currently scheduling discussion groups and drop-in seminars for the fall -- Let me know what you'd like to see! Email me here and let me know your thoughts and interests.
