Originals
Innovators' global influence
Description
To conceive and actualize an idea that challenges the status quo, one must first embrace a mindset that welcomes unorthodox concepts and is willing to question established norms.
This involves a willingness to take calculated risks, balancing bold ventures in some areas with stability in others. It's crucial to master the art of risk management associated with pioneering and advocating for novel ideas. Scaling these ideas to make them practical and sustainable is another key step.
Additionally, managing the emotional barriers that can hinder original thinking is essential. This includes overcoming fear of failure and the discomfort of going against the grain. Fostering and maintaining an environment that supports originality both in personal and professional settings is also vital.
Table of contents
01Taking smart risks to champion original ideas
In the realm of innovation and originality, the common narrative often glorifies the archetype of the bold risk-taker, the individual who stakes everything on a groundbreaking idea. However, this portrayal overlooks a critical aspect of what it truly means to be an original.
As Adam Grant, a renowned researcher, elucidates, the essence of originality begins not with reckless gambles but with a profound sense of curiosity and a willingness to question the status quo. This curiosity leads to what Grant describes as "vuja de," the experience of seeing familiar situations with fresh eyes, prompting the exploration of alternatives to accepted norms.
Contrary to the popular belief that originals must embrace radical risk-taking, evidence suggests that the most successful innovators often adopt a more balanced approach. They do not abandon their stable jobs or financial security in pursuit of their ventures. Instead, they maintain their regular employment, allowing them the freedom to explore new ideas without the immediate pressure of financial ruin. This strategy was employed by notable figures such as Phil Knight, Steve Wozniak, Sergey Brin, and Sara Blakely, who all continued in their conventional roles while building what would become transformative startups. This approach, akin to managing a diversified investment portfolio, mitigates risk and provides a safety net, enabling more sustained and thoughtful pursuit of innovation.
02Scaling up your original ideas
Contrary to common belief, being a pioneer is not necessary for originality. Evidence suggests that many original thinkers strategically procrastinate and blend new ideas with familiar ones to gain wider acceptance. This approach allows for diverse ideas and reduces the risk of early rejection by building a supportive network.
One iconic example of strategic procrastination is Martin Luther King Jr., who drafted his historic "I Have a Dream" speech just hours before delivering it in 1963. Similarly, Leonardo da Vinci spent 16 years perfecting the Mona Lisa, incorporating various experiments. Abraham Lincoln also composed a significant portion of his Gettysburg Address the night before, showing that last-minute work can lead to profound outcomes.
03Overcoming the emotional barriers
Originality is a trait that goes beyond the workplace and should be cultivated in children and within organizations. It involves encouraging rebellion against subpar practices and nurturing originality wherever it appears.
Interestingly, birth order can influence a person's propensity for risk-taking and their likelihood of becoming an original thinker. Firstborns and only children often grow up under stricter rules and in a more adult-centric environment. In contrast, later-born children tend to learn not just from their parents but also from their older siblings. In larger families, later-borns spend more time with peers and benefit from more relaxed parental rules.
Research shows that later-borns are more inclined to take risks in various fields such as sports, politics, science, business, and life in general. However, any child can be nurtured to become an original thinker. This includes replacing strict discipline with more relaxed parenting, guiding actions through reasoning, and discussing the consequences of wrong actions.
Emphasizing the impact of their actions on others helps children recognize how their positive behaviors affect those around them. Instilling a strong moral compass and the courage to do what is right is crucial. Praising a child's character, such as highlighting their helpfulness and kindness, can play a significant role in fostering originality.
04Cultivating originality in your environment
Maintaining originality and creativity is a journey fraught with emotional challenges. To preserve your unique spark, it's essential to navigate the emotional hurdles that can impede your progress.
Harnessing your passion is key to overcoming fear and indifference, bridging the gap between inspiration and action. Original thinkers feel the same emotions as everyone else, but they stand out because they act on their ideas regardless of those feelings.
To sustain creativity in the long term, you need effective strategies for managing emotions while challenging the status quo. Here are some techniques to keep you motivated in the face of resistance.
- Adopt the stance of a defensive pessimist rather than a strategic optimist. While strategic optimists set high expectations by envisioning the best outcomes, defensive pessimists prepare for the worst-case scenario. Surprisingly, expecting the worst can lead to a more positive outlook when outcomes exceed expectations. By confronting your doubts, you prepare thoroughly and mitigate risks. Embracing fear can enhance your performance—this is the power of defensive pessimism.
- Before a daunting event, frame your mindset as "excited" instead of "afraid." Telling yourself "I am excited to perform" is more conducive to productivity than "I am afraid." Transform nerves into enthusiasm and give yourself an inspiring pep talk to ignite your excitement.
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