Talent vs Skill
Talent vs Skill
“Talent” and “skill” are often used interchangeably in conversations and perceptions. Both words pertain to the ability or potential of an individual to deal, work, and perform a particular task. However, their main difference is their point of origin.
A talent is defined by resources as the ability by a person that is inherent, inborn, or naturally occurring. A talent is said to be a special ability to do something without prior experience, study, or tutelage. It is often classified or compared to an instinct or a certain flair for doing something without extra effort and almost perfect in execution.
Since a talent is innate, only some people have actually acquired it. A talent makes it somewhat restricting–some people have it and others do not. Because it occurs naturally, a talent is also seen as raw ability which can be developed and improved over time with direction like instruction and training. Consistent improvement of any ability or craft gives an advantage for any individual.
This is also true for a skill. Unlike a talent, a skill is an ability that is learned and practiced for a period of time. A skill is an acquired or obtained ability which is often the result of constant performance and improvement on a particular task or behavior.
Skills are often taught and considered as a demonstrated talent. It is the “nurture” aspect which is the opposite of a talent being the “nature” or natural acquisition of ability. In this viewpoint, it can be said that a skill can be a result or an extension of a person’s particular talent and considerable effort. This means that a talent can be a stepping stone to improve a skill. A skill can be a refined ability when combined with talent.
Using both a skill and a talent can drive an individual to success and fulfill a goal in life. It is not a substitute for talent, nor is a talent a substitute for skill. A skill, as something acquired, needs instruction, time, training, and practice to actually learn.
“Talent” and “skill” are often used interchangeably in conversations and perceptions. Both words pertain to the ability or potential of an individual to deal, work, and perform a particular task. However, their main difference is their point of origin.
A talent is defined by resources as the ability by a person that is inherent, inborn, or naturally occurring. A talent is said to be a special ability to do something without prior experience, study, or tutelage. It is often classified or compared to an instinct or a certain flair for doing something without extra effort and almost perfect in execution.
Since a talent is innate, only some people have actually acquired it. A talent makes it somewhat restricting–some people have it and others do not. Because it occurs naturally, a talent is also seen as raw ability which can be developed and improved over time with direction like instruction and training. Consistent improvement of any ability or craft gives an advantage for any individual.
This is also true for a skill. Unlike a talent, a skill is an ability that is learned and practiced for a period of time. A skill is an acquired or obtained ability which is often the result of constant performance and improvement on a particular task or behavior.
Skills are often taught and considered as a demonstrated talent. It is the “nurture” aspect which is the opposite of a talent being the “nature” or natural acquisition of ability. In this viewpoint, it can be said that a skill can be a result or an extension of a person’s particular talent and considerable effort. This means that a talent can be a stepping stone to improve a skill. A skill can be a refined ability when combined with talent.
Using both a skill and a talent can drive an individual to success and fulfill a goal in life. It is not a substitute for talent, nor is a talent a substitute for skill. A skill, as something acquired, needs instruction, time, training, and practice to actually learn.