In "Quirky," Melissa A. Schilling delves into the fascinating world of innovative thinkers whose unique ideas defy conventional logic. The author explores how these individuals harness their eccentricities to foster creativity and drive success in their fields. Through captivating anecdotes and research, Schilling uncovers the psychological and social factors that empower these 'quirky' minds. Readers will be challenged to reconsider how we perceive innovation and the value of unconventional approaches. This engaging exploration not only celebrates the beauty of individuality but also inspires readers to embrace their own quirks in pursuit of greatness.
By Melissa A Schilling
Published: 2018
"Embrace the unconventional, for it is in the quirks of life that we find our most profound truths."
The science behind the traits and quirks that drive creative geniuses to make spectacular breakthroughs What really distinguishes the people who literally change the world--those creative geniuses who give us one breakthrough after another? What differentiates Marie Curie or Elon Musk from the merely creative, the many one-hit wonders among us? Melissa Schilling, one of the world's leading experts on innovation, invites us into the lives of eight people--Albert Einstein, Benjamin Franklin, Elon Musk, Dean Kamen, Nikola Tesla, Marie Curie, Thomas Edison, and Steve Jobs--to identify the traits and experiences that drove them to make spectacular breakthroughs, over and over again. While all innovators possess incredible intellect, intellect alone, she shows, does not create a breakthrough innovator. It was their personal, social, and emotional quirkiness that enabled true genius to break through--not just once but again and again. Nearly all of the innovators, for example, exhibited high levels of social detachment that enabled them to break with norms, an almost maniacal faith in their ability to overcome obstacles, and a passionate idealism that pushed them to work with intensity even in the face of criticism or failure. While these individual traits would be unlikely to work in isolation--being unconventional without having high levels of confidence, effort, and goal directedness might, for example, result in rebellious behavior that does not lead to meaningful outcomes--together they can fuel both the ability and drive to pursue what others deem impossible. Schilling shares the science behind the convergence of traits that increases the likelihood of success. And, as Schilling also reveals, there is much to learn about nurturing breakthrough innovation in our own lives--in, for example, the way we run organizations, manage people, and even how we raise our children.
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“Embrace the unconventional, for it is in the quirks of life that we find our most profound truths.”
Quirky
By Melissa A Schilling
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Melissa A Schilling is a renowned author and professor known for her compelling exploration of innovation, strategy, and entrepreneurship. She has authored several notable works, including 'Strategic Management of Technological Innovation' and 'Winning the Right Game: How to Disrupt, Defend, and Achieve Growth and Innovation.' Schilling's writing style seamlessly blends academic rigor with accessible insights, making complex concepts in business and management understandable for both scholars and practitioners alike. Her work is widely recognized for its impact on the fields of strategy and innovation.
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