Author: Craig M. Wright
Short Summary |
The Hidden Habits of Genius (2020) is a guide to what makes the genius apart from the rest of us and what are their habits. In every era, some individuals change our world. From the ancient Greeks to modern Japan, they’re a diverse bunch, with diverse interests. Yet they all have one thing in common: they possess a certain set of habits that makes them geniuses. While many have sought to define it, the elusive quality of genius remains, well, elusive. |
Detailed Summary
Everyone knows that geniuses are geniuses because of their mental prowess and the ability to think differently from others. However, that is not the whole truth. If a study by author Craig Wright wanted to know what it takes to be a creative genius, is to be believed, then it is the habits that geniuses have in common, which are at the core of their genius.
In the book, The Genius in All of Us, author David Shenk writes about how the secret to being a genius is having a child-like mind, filled with endless curiosity and wonder. In Shenk’s words;
“If we could see our way clear to giving expression to the child within us, perhaps we might dare to be the adventurers that evolution intended.”
The Hidden Habits of Genius Key Points
Being the sucker of knowledge makes them curious
Geniuses have a strong sense of curiosity for the world. They are always striving to discover and understand how things work to add unique ideas of their own.
Genius is imagination and brilliance that is applied to different fields, from science and technology to arts, literature, and music.
Since the beginning of time, genius has helped humanity push the boundaries of not only knowledge but also imagination and creativity. The originality and creativity that geniuses have as a result of their curiosity are the prime factors behind their success in the aforementioned fields.
For example, Albert Einstein’s curiosity led him to wonder how an apple falling from a tree could work to the theory of gravity. After graduation, Steve Jobs had a great curiosity about how the digital age could re-shape human behavior. Their curiosity not only changed their lives and the world but also changed technology, social systems, and the idea of what is possible.
Whether we read, travel, find ourselves in a difficult or new situation, work more, etc, we develop curiosity in ourselves and it is great to become more knowledgeable and work on innovations.
Geniuses are completely focused on their work
According to the study, if you want to move your career forward, you should work on your ability to ignore distractions.
Though it is easier said than done, this ability to focus and disregard distractions can help you get through today’s overload of information. Geniuses are completely focused on their work and prioritize it.
Almost all successful people have a strong ability to concentrate, as well as to set goals, achieve them, and improve them.
A strong concentration is a key component of genius and can serve as a powerful tool for developing your skills. The way to achieve undivided attention is simple: find a place where you work best, remove distractions and eliminate all the possible reasons for distraction. Do not let someone distract you from your goal, whether it’s a relationship partner or colleague. Even the most polite people can distract you from your goal if they ask you questions every time they talk with you.
Distractions are a part of our everyday life. We are constantly bombarded with stimuli from every corner, from our mobile devices, TV, and in-person interactions. All of this input makes it difficult for most people to focus on what’s most important. But for geniuses like Albert Einstein, Leonardo da Vinci or Steve Jobs, this is not necessarily the case.
Let’s admit it – we all can get distracted from time to time. Some distractions are short-lived, some last longer. We often even forget about the time spent on these distractions which is why the majority of us don’t keep a record of how much time we spend on distractions.
Break the rules to foster the innovation and originality to work
Conventional wisdom states that working in teams is a proven way to succeed in life. Yet, one of the most productive innovators and entrepreneurs of our time, Steve Jobs, was a notorious loner. He was known for not sharing his thoughts with his subordinates and for mistreating them. Yet, Steve Jobs thrived at Apple and was among the most successful entrepreneurs of our time. This begs the question why did he opt to create individually? Why did he not work in teams if they are so efficient? The answer is simple: he realized that working in teams can be inefficient at times. In some cases, they can even be counterproductive if they restrict originality and creativity.
What makes some people so efficient and innovative? ls, its education, experience, or are they part of the chosen few? The answer is a little bit of all three. We can study until we’re blue in the face, we can read books and articles by the dozens, listen to podcasts, we can attend training, can work with experienced colleagues and mentors. All of this counts for something, but if you are confident and efficient you should break the rules and try new ways of doing things.
The best way to get inspiration is to try everything. Learn by doing. Don’t wait until your boss tells you what to do. Sometimes you just have to make a decision on your own and learn from the consequences. It will be scary at first but then you’ll realize that it’s bad. You will also realize that you can do more than you thought you could and that you are more capable than you think.
The Hidden Habits of Genius quotes
“As Albert Einstein said of himself in his later years, “I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious.” Craig Wright
“Steve Jobs was quoted in Business Week as saying “A lot of times, people don’t know what they want until you show it to them.” Craig Wright
The Hidden Habits of Genius review
Wdoedoesn’ddoesn’tenius? In this book, you will learn interesting knowledge with some great examples. Whether you are a parent or a teacher, this book is a great read for you. Recommended.
To whom I would recommend The Hidden Habits of Genius summary?
- Aspiring businessmen who want to boost up their attitude and mentality to become genius.
- Anyone wants to reach their full potential.
Link: https://amzn.to/3zE9OaU