The key is making something new or connecting things in a way that benefits society
The problem with the word “genius” is that it is too narrowly focused on a set of skills or accomplishments. It’s too much about the person and not enough about what the person does.
A better focus is creativity, the human ability to make something new or connect things in a way that give new insights. Creative ideas are those that are done to benefit society, to improve the human condition, and to increase our understanding of how the world works. They can have an immediate impact or offer a long-term solution.
Creativity is happening everywhere. What causes it to flourish?
People who demonstrate exceptional creativity usually have a strong base of knowledge in the area in which they’re working. They have also had a diverse set of experiences, have been exposed to different fields, and are able to make connections across them. This gives them a different way of looking at the world, so they ask questions that others haven’t thought of before.
There also needs to be some freedom for creativity to thrive. But not too much. Successful creative people define goals for themselves. They are diligent, passionate, persistent and self-directed. They have a spirit of curiosity and a willingness to ask questions, test ideas, and try new things.
Conrad is Managing Director of the MacArthur Fellows Program.