An "outlier" is someone who stands out from the crowd. We often wonder about the qualities that make these individuals unique. Are they exceptionally intelligent or talented? Do they possess extraordinary personalities or lead distinctive lifestyles? We instinctively believe that their personal traits explain their success.

However, the truth is more complex. All success stories are very different and authentic. Moreover, success is rarely achieved in isolation. A lot of factors come into play, including family background, cultural heritage, and historical timing. They all play significant roles in shaping one's path to success. These external factors are often just as crucial, or probably even more crucial, than individual traits and efforts.

Let’s take a look at the example of Jeb Bush, who described himself as a "self-made man" during his campaign for the governorship of Florida. This narrative fits well with the popular belief in the developed world that individuals can shape their own destinies. His privileged background was, however, less emphasized. Meanwhile, Bush was part of a family that included two U.S. Presidents, a wealthy banker, and a senator. This background gave him opportunities and support that many others do not have.

Sure, outliers are those who excel in their fields – whether in sports, business, science, or politics. Yet, their stories are not solely about personal effort and talent. Other factors, such as luck, timing, and upbringing, also play critical roles. All of them work as a snowball, combining all together. The phenomenon, known as the Matthew Effect, suggests that initial advantages tend to accumulate over time. Those who get a head start continue to receive more opportunities, while those who start with disadvantages often struggle to catch up. This cumulative advantage can create significant disparities in achievement over time.

Understanding outliers requires looking beyond individual attributes to the broader context in which they develop. Their success is often a product of a combination of factors, including family background, cultural influences, and timing. By examining these elements, we can gain a deeper insight into what it takes to achieve extraordinary success.