Joel Orr's World

"The first skill is what we call 'associating.' It's a cognitive skill that allows creative people to make connections across seemingly unrelated questions, problems, or ideas. The second skill is questioning — an ability to ask 'what if,' 'why,' and 'why not' questions that challenge the status quo and open up the bigger picture. The third is the ability to closely observe details, particularly the details of people's behavior. Another skill is the ability to experiment — the people we studied are always trying on new experiences and exploring new worlds. And finally, they are really good at networking with smart people who have little in common with them, but from whom they can learn."

— Brigham Young University professor Jeff Dyer, summarizing findings of a six-year study, lists the five skills that distinguish the most creative executives. (Bonus food for thought from The Economist: "The Last Days of the Polymath.")

From SiliconValley.com