Importance of “Team Work” – Solitary Genius a Myth

We have long heard the inspirational tales of great discoverers and thinkers like Charles Darwin, Einstein, Thomas Edison, Picasso, Michelangelo, etc. who had unearthed historical discoveries and produced mythical art pieces in solitude - alone. However, there is just a little truth behind this ‘lone genius’ concept.  

Source: Post Calvin

In the past, people thought of creativity as a natural gift. Something which only a few true geniuses could behold. But as science and communities have progressed, we have come to understand that it can be learned and grown when working with other people.

We often find inventions and ideas named after one person, however, they rarely come about without the help of a large supporting cast, often unnamed and unsung. And the stories of great discoverers, like Thomas Edison, are no different.

Back in 1995, researchers Alfonso Montuori and Ronald E Purser for the first time in history deconstructed the lone genius myth in a study that sought to point out "the problematic nature of a hyper-individualistic understanding of creativity".

In an article, ‘How Resilience Works’ for Harvard Business Review, Diane L. Coutu wrote that resilient people staunchly accept reality. They believe that life is meaningful and have the capacity to improvise, when necessary. She says resilience isn’t about cultivating an optimistic outlook but is instead about being able to stare down at reality.

When we work with a team, especially from different backgrounds, the diversity helps bring 360 perspectives to the table. According to Frans Johansson, author of the Medici Effect, some of the most innovative ideas happen at “the intersection” – the place where ideas from different industries and cultures collide. In his book, he has greatly emphasized the point. “Most people think success comes from surrounding yourself with others that are like you,” However, he pointed out that true success and breakthrough innovation involves discomfort. Whenever you are in discomfort, out of your comfort zone, that is when your growth starts. Working in a diverse team can be a well-documented pathway to “unlocking new opportunities, overcoming new challenges, and gaining new insights.”

Source: The New York Times

A recent study conducted by the consulting firm McKinsey & Company cemented the statement. They found that teams made up of members with different backgrounds are found to be more creative, adaptable, and skilled, as compared to homogenous teams. Whereas, another research report from Tufts University suggested that it also makes one happier.

A Nobel Laureate, Charlie stressed the same point during one of her interviews post-winning price. While reflecting back on his initial years in the field and addressing failed attempts at discoveries he said, “I felt that I had to do everything on my own because asking for help was a sign that I was not intelligent enough,” Chalfie said. “I now see how destructive this attitude was, but then I assumed that this was what I had to do.” Creativity isn't a solely solo pursuit, it's cumulative and collaborative.

Research is the work of many, fueled by questions and debate, and always improving through critique and feedback. 

To put it simply, collaboration makes every project better. So don’t fear teamwork. The importance of solitude can never be stressed enough for sake of one’s personal growth and sanity. However, don’t let it fool you into thinking that you need others. 

In a very warming book, Tuesdays with Morrie, Mitch Albom has stated his professor’s golden life lesson that you don't only need people in the early stages of infancy and crippling old age, but also in between.