What I call "extreme working memory", coupled with a relentlessness but mindful pursuit of what interests you, is imo what differentiates normal from extreme people: http://www.economist.com/node/471563 I was once fired by a parent from teaching her son chess because I was too intense in my approach. He gained 700 rating points in three months. I wasn't even going 20%. In this country, we tippie-toe around kids.