Dan Pink’s book outlines the ‘six essential aptitudes on which professional success and personal fulfillment now depend’. The era of left-brain dominance (L-directed thinking) will give way to those who are more right-brain oriented (R-directed). Individuals who develop their sense of inventiveness, empathy, and meaning will step into prominence.
Many technical careers in IT and academia are less creative than you might imagine. I have seen how the sausage is made and have turned the crank myself from time to time. I simply cannot live that way. I crave more than a creative outlet. My life must be creative.
In this book, Mr. Pink asks three critical questions:
- Can a computer do it faster?
- Is there a demand for my product in a time of abundance?
- Can someone overseas do it cheaper?
In a world where information is almost free and access is immediate, the recitation of facts and figures in less important. Creativity will be in demand. Mr. Pink outlines six R-directed aptitudes:
- Design: Moving beyond function to engage the sense.
- Story: Narrative added to products and services, not just argument.
- Symphony: Invention and big picture thinking.
- Empathy: Beyond logic, engaging emotion and intuition.
- Play: Bringing humor to business, products, and services.
- Meaning: The purpose is the journey.
I must say, this is somewhat of a relief to hear.
(See also: danpink.com: A Whole New Mind)
(See also: danpink.com: Discussion Guide for Business)
(See also: danpink.com: Discussion Guide for Educators)
(See also: wikipedia.org: A Whole New Mind)