Humanity has all the talent it needs to solve every problem we are facing.
But the vast majority of this talent is underutilized.
Why is this?
Very few of us are living in environments that are optimal for our creativity and flourishing.
So how do we create more places where everyone’s individual superpowers shine? Places where each of our inner geniuses flourishes.
In 2023, I spent many months in carefully crafted co-living environments—”innovation playgrounds”—that seemed to bring out the best in their participants. First in Montenegro, then in Zanzibar, then in Istanbul. Each time, new innovations and careers were birthed, thanks to…
- A culture of exploring the cutting edge. Celebration of renegades, risk-taking, and experimentation; friendly competition to do your best, most impactful work; and a subtle peer pressure to build in alignment with shared values.
- Rapid exchange and refinement of tools, techniques, and ideas. As a prototype is built, it is shared, then tested. Ideas also flow quickly because of shared language, models, and sensibilities. Almost total freedom for participants to create what they wish.
- Extreme talent curation. Almost everyone is a practicing engineer, scientist, or interested in supporting innovation. A mix of successful people and hungry up-and-comers. Lots of diversity in expertise. Lots of multidisciplinary interaction. A beautiful collision of ideas and energies.
- Excellent physical infrastructure. High quality lodging. Many spaces that make it easy for participants to self-organize knowledge sharing sessions, hangouts, whiteboarding sessions, and dance parties (that each help build trust). Quality co-working spaces and fast internet.
- Everything one needs to be healthy. Fresh food and non-sugary drinks are the default. Plenty of fitness and wellness activities to keep your mind and body in a state where you can take advantage of the connection and learning opportunities.
I saw dozens of people’s lives drastically improve through attending these playgrounds. I am one of those people. My experience at these playgrounds gave me a new lease on life.
If you are looking for inspiration, don’t just go to typical conferences, find your way to week-long to multi-month experiences that can rekindle a sense of wonder and possibility about your future.
I will be co-creating several of these experiences in 2024. I hope you consider joining me.