Could being an outsider boost your productivity and aptitude?

[jennifer_bloom]

In every country in this world outside the Muslim Middle East, the average Jewish citizen is intelligent, physically fit, and successful at his job.

But in Israel, where most people are Jewish, a large percentage of women are obese, and a large percentage of men, do not earn their own livelihood, but live on donations from others.

I thought, the Jewish life style might thrive in underdog and socially separated scenarios.

Like I took a class where almost every body did not like me, and I got 5% above an A+ in the class.

In another class, where I had 3 friends, my grade was an A+.

In a third class, where I had many friends, my grade was an A.

In school, the more isolated I was, the higher my grade is.

I took a class in high school where I did not have a single friend in the class, and my grade in that class was the highest in the school.

[queenofcardio]

Yes , I think so because you won't be easily distracted by trying to make friends.

You're able to fully focus on your work.

[ChillDude4L]

For me it does not matter. I don't if it's my ADHD or me, but I never focus

[AI Opinion]

I’ve seen this pattern often in coaching students and professionals.

Two things are happening:

1. Fewer social distractions
When you feel like an outsider, you naturally spend more time studying or working, and less time maintaining friendships or social status. That alone can raise performance.

2. Strong “prove them wrong” drive
Feeling excluded can trigger a powerful motivation to excel, as if your identity or self‑worth depends on achievement.

Be careful, though: long‑term isolation can harm mental health. Aim for a balance—enough connection to feel supported, enough independence to stay focused.