"All the genius I have lies in this; when I have a subject in hand, I study it profoundly. Day and night it is before me. My mind becomes pervaded with it. Then the effort that I have made is what people are pleased to call the fruit of genius. It is the fruit of labor and thought." -Alexander Hamilton, American Founding Father and first Secretary of Treasury, Alexander Hamilton books//

A strong work ethic combined with the ability to focus, and exhibit leadership courage, can make people of average intelligence appear to be geniuses. Hamilton was probably being a bit modest, considering the level of accomplishments he achieved in his life. It takes more than a modicum of intelligence to have the foresight to establish such things as the First National Bank, the U.S. Coast Guard, the United States Mint and key economic policies that catapulted America into a worldwide superpower faster than any other nation in history. His example, though, is one that can be gainfully applied to anyone attempting to accomplish something great in their lives. Hamilton suggests that there are three critical steps to harvest "fruit" from labor and intelligence: 1) study or obtain knowledge, 2) focus, or immerse yourself, completely on the task/subject at hand, and 3) act on what you have learned without fear. Mistakes are inevitable - Hamilton made many mistakes, including a huge one of accepting a duel with Aaron Burr in 1804 that lead to his death. Whether or not a person possesses true "genius," it is possible to achieve great things through a strong work ethic, ability to focus and leadership courage. When people like Hamilton with brilliant minds also have these strengths, the world-at-large often benefits from their accomplishments. You don't need to change the world, but you certainly can improve your life by applying these principles. If you do, don't be surprised when those around you begin to appreciate your "genius."