I've been reading a book on genetics and the author frequently gives backstories on prominent scientists and professionals across various fields, most of whom have highly prestigious educational backgrounds.

Nearly all of these individuals aren't just successful in their primary careers; they also excel in impressive hobbies—playing the cello in orchestras, running ultra-marathons, or publishing books outside of their main field of expertise. Even Scott Alexander stands out with this unique intellectual fervor, discussing such a broad range of topics when many of us struggle to develop deep knowledge in just one or two areas.

What makes these individuals seem like they’re running on a different operating system, almost superhuman? Do they have higher levels of discipline, greater intrinsic motivation, better dopamine regulation, or just access to a more curated social network that encourages them to explore all these diverse interests?

I’m just befuddled how you can take two kids “with bright futures” in similar socioeconomic conditions with no blatant abuse, and one ends up a Harvard graduate, world renowned chess player, artist, and author, while the other becomes a homeless drug addict or a low functioning, motivation-less individual. What are the psychological, neurological, and environmental factors that create such divergent outcomes?

I feel like this is both such a basic topic and my thoughts here are underdeveloped, but I’m curious to hear people’s perspectives.