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Unlocking the Future: Harvard Study Reveals 3 Golden Traits of Children for Success Before Age 7

Are you curious about the kids who will "make it" as adults? The secret lies within these 3 “golden” traits revealed by Harvard research.

Administrator

3 May, 2024

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The saying “At three years old, one can observe a child’s personality; at seven years old, one can predict their destiny” has been widely acknowledged. It suggests that at the age of three, it is possible to forecast how a child will develop as they mature, as well as their psychological and behavioral characteristics as they grow older.

In simpler terms, whether a child will be successful in adulthood can be gauged by observing their behavioral patterns before they reach the age of seven. While this viewpoint might seem to emphasize innate abilities and disregard the effort one puts in, examining it from another perspective reveals that there is indeed a scientific basis to this statement.

According to research by American psychologist Bloom, a child’s personality, as formed before the age of seven, has a significant influence on their future learning, career, and even marriage and family life.

Delving into the workings of neurons in the brain, it becomes apparent that there is a scientific foundation for this. Experts believe that the first 1,000 days of a child’s life are the “golden period” for brain development, during which it can reach up to 80% of its adult weight. This is a period of growth and differentiation, forming connections between neurons. During this stage, new neuronal connections are constantly being formed in the brain.

One’s personality, emotions, and behavior are all closely linked to this neurological development.

Professor Cassby in the UK conducted a randomized study on 1,000 children under the age of seven to examine the importance of this stage for their later lives. After following them for nearly 20 years, he found that the behavior, emotions, and personalities of these children remained largely unchanged from when they were under seven years old. Professor Cassby’s findings have also indicated that early signs of a child’s potential for success in adulthood can be observed before they reach the age of seven.

Researchers from Harvard University conducted a randomized survey of 1,000 successful individuals over the age of 30. These individuals all had annual incomes exceeding $200,000, happy family lives, and良好的性格.

After an extended period of observation and research, scientists have noted that children who show promise often display these three characteristics before they turn seven years old.

One’s personality, emotions, and behavior are all closely linked to this neurological development.

Enjoys doing chores

A study conducted by scientists at Harvard University revealed that individuals who regularly participate in household chores are 20% more likely to find jobs and earn higher incomes than those who do not regularly perform such tasks. Notably, those who maintain the habit of doing chores as adults often began forming this habit before they were seven years old.

As explained by the researchers, engaging in chores from a young age helps children develop a stronger sense of responsibility and better organizational skills, which are crucial soft skills for later life. Meanwhile, a child who does not participate in household chores may face limitations in developing their future potential, regardless of how academically優秀they may be.

Engaging in chores from a young age helps children develop a stronger sense of responsibility and better organizational skills

Regularly wakes up early

After spending five years observing and researching the lifestyles of 177 successful self-made individuals, a scholar discovered that the vast majority of them, accounting for 99%, had the habit of waking up early. The question arises: what is the difference between those who wake up early and those who do not? Typically, individuals with the habit of waking up early tend to possess higher levels of self-control and discipline, and these qualities are often associated with success.

A sleep study by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) also confirms that the morning is when the brain is at its most alert and energetic state compared to any other time of day. The AASM emphasizes, “Starting your day with a positive, upbeat mood will increase your work performance.”

During sleep, a child’s body produces growth hormone, which plays a crucial role in height development. Children who wake up early are usually indicative of having had a good night’s sleep. Getting enough sleep not only supports a child’s healthy development but also reduces the risk of behavioral disorders, hyperactivity, and diseases such as obesity. A child’s self-awakening time also provides parents with important information about whether their child is getting enough sleep, allowing them to adjust their child’s sleep schedule to ensure optimal sleep quality, which in turn supports the child’s overall development.

Children who wake up early are usually indicative of having had a good night’s sleep

Enjoys reading books

Dou Gui Mai, the head of the primary school affiliated with Tsinghua University in China, once remarked that it is rare to find a child who is not fascinated by books and yet excels in their studies. Reading books not only broadens one’s knowledge but also has the power to transform one’s outlook and way of thinking.

Warren Buffett, the renowned billionaire, developed a love for books from his childhood. While his peers were engrossed in various animated shows, Buffett chose to befriend the book “1,000 Ways to Make $1,000.” Today, despite having amassed an immense fortune, he still maintains the habit of waking up early to read books and study financial reports.

In contrast, those who show no interest in reading often derive their values and views from external sources, lacking the ability for independent judgment, akin to puppets being controlled by invisible strings. Therefore, it is of paramount importance for parents to encourage their children to read books, as those who are persistent in reading will be the ones with the potential to succeed in the future.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, according to American psychologist Bloom’s research, a child’s personality formed before the age of seven significantly influences their future learning, career, and even marriage and family life. The first 1,000 days of a child’s life are considered the “golden period” for brain development, and this neurological growth is closely linked to their personality, emotions, and behavior.

Professor Cassby of the UK conducted a randomized study on 1,000 children under seven and followed them for nearly 20 years. He found that their behavior, emotions, and personalities remained largely consistent from childhood, and early signs of adult success could be observed before age seven.

Successful individuals often display a love for reading, a habit of waking up early, and a willingness to participate in household chores. These habits are associated with higher income, a happier family life, and better overall success.

Engaging in chores from a young age helps children develop a sense of responsibility and organizational skills, which are crucial for later life. Researchers at Harvard University found that individuals who regularly do chores are 20% more likely to find jobs and earn higher incomes.

Waking up early is associated with higher levels of self-control and discipline, which are qualities often linked to success. Additionally, the morning is when the brain is most alert and energetic, setting a positive tone for the day and increasing work performance.

Reading books broadens knowledge, transforms outlooks, and enhances critical thinking skills. Warren Buffett, a renowned billionaire, attributed his success to his love of reading, which he developed from a young age.