SUCCESS--DNA vs LEARNED BEHAVIOUR.

SUCCESS—DNA VERSUS LEARNED BEHAVIOUR
In a more serious vein, a study conducted by scientists of the Institute for the Study of Labour and the University of Bonn, reveals that parents who revel in taking risks tend to have children who are more willing to indulge in risk-taking behaviour. And the eagerness to trust fellow human beings is also apparently inherited. This may explain why success seems to be a family affair, as every economic decision is a result of judicious risks and trust imposed on worthy individuals.

Therefore, it is a matter to be seriously considered whether by sheer hard work, talent or just the advantage of an environment that inspires achievement, being born and bred in the lap of success seems to be a sure shot manner of being successful in one’s adult years. So, does success, apparently do beget success?

Researchers point out; ‘heritability’ suggests the importance of considering genetic factors to explain why some people are successfully entrepreneurial, while others are not. The research further debunks another myth that opposites always attract. “Women who like taking risks are more likely to have husbands of the same ilk. This shapes the attitude and mindset of the offspring who, in turn, choose a partner similar to themselves. Thus, ‘success’ is inherited across several generations.”

Then, is there any reason to indulge in backbreaking hard work? There is, it seems. “Your genetic composition can give you a good start as you have an environment that exposes you to success. It surely lends you that advantage. Nevertheless, remember that just acquiring the genes cannot give you the actions of your parents.

However, if you are growing up in a family full of achievers, you certainly do not want to be qualified as the family wastrel who just lolls about and enjoys the scent of money. When you live with successful people, you also want to be successful. Yes, your genes give you an edge, an initial advantage. But after that, you have to possess the required talent.

Therefore, while the components of success are genetic, success itself could be an amalgamation of genes as well as learned behaviour. Just breathing in an environment where a ‘good morning’ is accompanied with the latest share bazaar news could be inspiration enough to try walking in daddy’s footsteps. And that could well pave the way to success.