India, Nov. 8 -- Of the varying qualities that humans possess, most plus-points are possible to pin-point. Not so with the X-factor; that indefinable, intangible, indescribable element possessed only by some individuals who magically transform losing causes into winning positions.

This X-factor is sadly missing in most of us, but is clearly palpable in Olympic athletes, unicorn founders and born leaders. What is it, though, that propels an average student to dizzying heights of success in life? Why do some poets rule our hearts despite being technically flawed, while seemingly perfect writers fail to leave an impact?

These days, another factor, the "ex-factor" comes into play in many lives. The ex-life partner or ex-lover tends not to f...