Linear Path versus ZigZag Path

I remember my school days, when I used to rate my classmates and other students on the basis of academic performance (not my fault, even the teachers used to do so). The common understanding was that a student good in studies was a decent guy with good character and a dull student was a "bad guy". The only recommendation to such a "bad guy" by anyone would be to study well and score well.

This is true in a broad sense throughout life. There is a fixed straight "linear" path defined for the progress of a "mediocre" performer, and that is to try and excel in his primary area of work. But, there is no such fixed path of success for a "bright" performer, because he is already good at what he does. Diversification is the key for a successful person to become more successful. The way here is not a straight one, but a "ZigZag" one. Keep performing well in your primary area of work, but keep trying your hands in other areas too. This might not click instantly, but over a period of time it definitely will !!