an instructive speculation

Somewhere I read an instructive speculation about the unusual role, commitment and perseverance, and want to play in a self-made entrepreneur life.

Indeed. There are many smart people with a diploma or even two, but only few of them have their lives to achieve. On the contrary, the dominant share of outstanding people very often is the middle management level or even lower middle class, who are school teachers in some rural or low-paid consultants. The same, if not more, is true with many talented people who unusual has happened to lead a secluded life away from money and fame. Sadly to say, but the people of the arts is usually recognized only after their death.

But what features are important character to succeed if it is not the talent or training? Which features many of these talented people missing in their youth to show their talent, became known throughout the world and be recognized in their lives, not after?