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The chart here represents the concept of optimization mentality.  It's been around some, with good reason; it illustrates the differences in achievement attitudes.  From the "can't be bothered" to the "this is good enough" to the "wow! check this out!" lines of thought this chart clearly shows what happens when we dedicate ourselves and our time to focus on bettering ourselves.  And, guess what?  Between its lines, it translates to money.

The chart assumes a level starting field; everyone is a novice.  It speaks more to a deliberate desire for continued improvement rather than an intelligence level.  Assuming its accuracy, it tell us what we can be if we don't allow ourselves to quit.

"Experts aren’t more productive because they’re more talented or because they work harder. The difference between the experts and everyone else is the optimization mentality: constantly striving for improvement." --John Wesley, Continuously Increase Productivity by Embracing the Optimization Mentality, Pick the Brain

By "constantly striving for improvement".  That's all there is to it.  There's no such thing as an overnight success; success is always a product of gradual improvement.   

"The only thing standing between you-as-amateur and you-as-expert is dedication . . . Most of us want to practice the things we're already good at, and avoid the things we suck at. We stay average or intermediate amateurs forever." --Kathy Sierra, How to be an expert, Creating Passionate Users

To be experts, we need to look, learn, and listen.  Look for the openings and opportunities that open doors to advancement.  Learn by reading, by researching, by experimenting with new ideas.  Listen to the experts who blazed the trails, the people who know a litle more.

Is it important to become an expert?  Is it acceptable to suck or be mediocre?