Below are 12 innovator attributes which we can learn and aspire to and nurture in others:
- Curious: Innovators actively explore the environment, challenge status quo and investigate new possibilities. Ask questions: “what if…?”
- Persistent: Innovators are never above a task, they are hardworking, persistent and willing to do “whatever-it-takes” to get things done. Never give up!
- Committed to learning: Innovators step in, participate and they continually seek knowledge.
- Visionary: Innovators are highly imaginative, maintain a future orientation, and think in mental pictures. Connect to right side of the brain :)
- Celebrate diversity: Innovators choose to work with a purposeful and diverse collection of people and are not afraid to disagree. POSITIVE HUMAN COLLISIONS
- Flexible/Adaptable: Innovators can handle uncertainty, initiate new projects and are able to adjust the “game plan” as needed.
- Listen: Innovators are open to input from all parties, learn quickly from feedback and take it on board in the outcome.
- Take Risks: They go beyond their comfort zone, have courage and take calculated risks.
- Fail: Innovators are not afraid to fail. They bounce back from disappointment and try again. FAIL = First Attempt In Learning.
- Desire for Improvement: Innovators respond to deep inner needs, increase efficiencies and offer enhanced experiences to improve processes for a better ROI.
- Positive and optimistic: Innovators think positively which increases attention and alertness; critical tools for anyone who attempts to solve a problem or is considering a business opportunity. Challenge negative thoughts.
- Mentally Strong: Innovators do not waste time feeling sorry for themselves, give away their power, worry about pleasing others or shy away from change.
