Creativity and intelligence often go hand in hand, but did you know there are certain traits unique to those with high creative intelligence? These quirks aren’t just interesting—they can actually be leveraged to drive innovation and success in the business world.
From their unique perspective on problem-solving to their tendency to embrace the unconventional, people with high creative intelligence possess a set of characteristics that set them apart.
In this article, we’ll explore seven quirky traits often found in these creatively intelligent individuals. Understanding these traits can provide a fresh perspective on how to approach challenges and opportunities in your own entrepreneurial journey.
Get ready for some surprising insights.
1) Embracing ambiguity
In the world of business, there is often a preference for clarity and certainty. Yet people with high creative intelligence tend to thrive in ambiguity. They are not only comfortable with uncertainty, but they also see it as an opportunity for innovation.
This ability to sit with uncertainty and see it as a potential source of creativity rather than a threat is a significant advantage in today’s fast-paced, ever-evolving world.
By embracing ambiguity, creatively intelligent people can remain adaptable, flexible, and open to new ideas – a critical trait in a time where change is the only constant.
Their knack for embracing ambiguity allows them to approach problems from different angles, often leading to unique solutions. This ability to think outside the box can be especially beneficial in entrepreneurial endeavors, where innovation and fresh perspectives are highly valued.
2) Appreciating the beauty in the mundane
People with high creative intelligence often have an uncanny ability to find beauty and inspiration in the most everyday circumstances. They see the world through a different lens, one that is able to extract profound insights from seemingly ordinary situations.
I’ve personally experienced this during my own journey. I remember once while walking down a familiar street, I noticed the intricate patterns on a tree’s bark – something I had passed by countless times without giving it a second glance.
It sparked an idea for a new project, showing me that inspiration can truly come from anywhere.
This trait is like having a constant source of creative fuel. It encourages us to stay present, to be observant, and to engage with our surroundings in a deeper way. It’s an invaluable skill in business, where new ideas and fresh perspectives can make all the difference.
As the renowned artist Pablo Picasso once said, “The artist is a receptacle for emotions that come from all over the place: from the sky, from the earth, from a scrap of paper, from a passing shape.”
3) Seeing possibilities where others see limitations
These individuals have a knack for turning obstacles into opportunities and can reframe setbacks as stepping stones towards success.
This ability to pivot and adapt is not only crucial in the world of business, but also in personal growth. With this perspective, every failure or challenge becomes a chance to learn and evolve.
In my own entrepreneurial journey, this mindset has been transformative. It has allowed me to navigate complex situations, find innovative solutions, and turn seemingly insurmountable obstacles into opportunities for growth and learning.
I delve deeper into this concept in one of my videos where I discuss how to embrace feeling like an imposter and use it as a catalyst for authentic growth and empowerment.
In this video, I argue that feeling like an ‘imposter’ can actually drive a more profound exploration of personal and professional capabilities.
This trait is about more than just optimism—it’s about having the courage to push boundaries, question the status quo, and continuously strive for improvement. It’s about seeing possibilities where others see limitations.
4) Fostering deep empathy
People with high creative intelligence often possess a profound sense of empathy. They have an uncanny ability to step into another’s shoes, to share and understand their feelings and perspectives.
This trait is not only crucial for forming authentic relationships but also vital in business settings.
However, empathy isn’t about being nice or agreeable all the time. It’s about truly understanding others, even when their perspectives differ greatly from our own. It’s about bridging gaps, finding common ground, and fostering mutual respect.
This deep sense of empathy often drives creatively intelligent individuals to challenge rigid dominance hierarchies and strive for more egalitarian relationships.
They believe in the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, and they’re not afraid to question systems that devalue or marginalize others.
Such raw honesty can be uncomfortable—it requires acknowledging the often harsh realities of power imbalances and social injustices. But it’s also a powerful catalyst for change, both on an individual level and in broader society.
5) Walking on the path less traveled
High creative intelligence often goes hand in hand with a natural tendency to deviate from the mainstream. Creatively intelligent individuals are not afraid to forge their own paths, even if these paths might seem unconventional or even risky to others.
This trait can manifest in various ways – from pursuing a unique business idea that others may dismiss, to adopting a lifestyle that strays from societal norms. It’s about following one’s own intuition and convictions, regardless of external pressures or expectations.
This raw and honest approach requires courage.
It’s about staying true to oneself, even in the face of criticism or doubt. It’s about taking full responsibility for one’s life and decisions, rather than blaming external circumstances or conforming to societal standards.
In one of my videos, I discuss how giving up on being a ‘good person’ can lead to a more authentic life. The video emphasizes the importance of recognizing our own flaws and destructive tendencies, rather than rigidly pursuing an idealized version of ‘goodness’.
Walking on the path less traveled is not an easy choice. But for those with high creative intelligence, it’s often the only way to truly fulfill their potential and live in alignment with their deepest values.
6) Thriving in solitude
While society often equates being alone with loneliness, individuals with high creative intelligence understand the profound difference between the two. For them, solitude isn’t a state of isolation but a fertile ground for creativity and self-reflection.
These individuals cherish their alone time. They understand that in order to connect deeply with others, they first need to connect with themselves. Solitude provides them with the space to tap into their inner thoughts, feelings, and ideas without external distractions or influences.
This trait is not about shunning social interactions. Quite the contrary, it’s about balancing meaningful social engagement with periods of solitude to recharge and reflect.
It’s about recognizing the importance of nurturing a relationship with oneself, and using these periods of solitude to cultivate self-awareness and personal growth.
7) Embracing paradoxes
Life is full of paradoxes, and people with high creative intelligence have a unique ability to embrace these contradictions. They understand that two opposing ideas can coexist and that there’s often wisdom to be found in the tension between them.
This ability enables them to see beyond binary thinking and consider multiple perspectives simultaneously. It allows them to hold space for complexity and navigate the grey areas that often baffle others.
In business, this trait is invaluable. Whether it’s balancing short-term gains with long-term sustainability or reconciling different stakeholder interests, the ability to handle paradoxes is crucial.
Embracing paradoxes requires a certain level of comfort with uncertainty and a willingness to challenge conventional wisdom. But for those with high creative intelligence, it’s a way of life – a testament to their ability to think critically and creatively in a complex world.
The creative strength of neurodiversity
The concept of neurodiversity is gaining traction in science and society, and it’s particularly relevant when exploring creativity.
Neurodiversity suggests that variations in the human brain are natural, valuable aspects of human diversity. This perspective shifts the dialogue from pathology to potential, highlighting the unique abilities and insights that often accompany different neurological experiences.
For those with high creative intelligence, their neurological wiring often leads to a unique perception of the world.
Recognizing and celebrating this diversity can lead to a more inclusive and innovative society. When we value neurodivergent individuals for their unique perspectives and abilities, we not only foster a more compassionate society, but we also unlock a wealth of creative potential.
By embracing these quirky traits, we can harness the power of neurodiversity to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and create a world that truly values the full spectrum of human creativity.
Feeling stuck in self-doubt?
Stop trying to fix yourself and start embracing who you are. Join the free 7-day self-discovery challenge and learn how to transform negative emotions into personal growth.
