Apple co-founder Steve Jobs during his acceptance speech for the ‘’Golden Plate’’ award from the Academy of Achievement in 1982 shared his opinion on intelligence. He asked the audience a thought-provoking question: ‘’Have you ever thought about what it is to be intelligent? Jobs highlighted that intelligence isn’t just about knowledge or raw ability rather it’s about making connections that others may not notice.
According to Jobs, the key to developing this ability is collecting a wide range of experiences that will assist individuals to think with different perspectives. ‘’You have to not have the same bag of experiences that everyone else has-or else you are going to make the same connections, ‘’ he stated. His ideology underlines how moving outside familiar routines and accepting new experiences can power success and creativity. Similar idea has been supported by Scott Mautz, who is a leadership expert, LinkedIn Learning instructor and a contributor to CNBC. In his recent article, Mautz has emulated Job’s opinion, highlighting that intelligence is not fixed and it can be propagated through various experiences and an attitude which is open to change.
Breaking from the routine pattern
Many people get caught into the routines that restrict exposure to new experiences and continue to remain stuck in familiar thought patterns. Mautz underlines that breaking out these tracks requires mental strength and a conscious determination to change. The first step is to identify the repetitive behaviours and beliefs that might be stopping you.
‘’You have to take responsibility for being in a rut,’’ Mautz mentions. Usually, people blame their stagnation to external factors such as relationships, jobs or situations, whereas in reality the main reason lies within. The ability to step back and reevaluate is a major skill for innovation and growth.
Taking challenges and setting goals new goals
One way to develop intelligence and creativity is by taking up challenges that bring you out of your comfort zone. Jobs believed that experiencing new outlook and taking on the challenges helps in creating the ability to make unique connections and this is something that will separate most successful people from the rest.
Setting up new goals that can also provide the stimulus to make advancement. Mautz advises that simply writing down your goals surges the chances of accomplishing them. He emphasises that stepping beyond your everyday experiences is essential. As Jobs displayed it through his groundbreaking at Apple, the readiness to explore new ideas and break away from the standard thinking process.