Have you ever met someone who seems to juggle multiple skills effortlessly? One day, they’re working on a data science project, the next on a storyboard, and by the evening, they’re designing an interior space. In meetings, they often bring that unique perspective that changes everything.
Defining this type of profile can be challenging. They defy the typical labels, often dismissed as “jack-of-all-trades” or questioned their ability to specialise. However, these individuals possess a rare and valuable skill that is increasingly recognised in today’s job market: adaptive curiosity.
What Is Adaptive Curiosity?
Adaptive curiosity is a skill that involves the ability to be interested in a variety of topics, to make connections between them, and to adapt quickly to change. People with this skill learn fast, draw unique links between different disciplines, and often provide innovative perspectives.
An Invaluable Asset for Multipotential Individuals
This cross-functional skill encompasses several key dimensions:
Eclecticism: It’s this insatiable curiosity that drives multipotentials to delve into a wide range of disciplines. Their thirst for knowledge enables them to draw ideas and innovative solutions from diverse fields.
Multidimensional vision: They possess a unique ability to look at issues from multiple angles, which allows them to understand and manage complex situations exceptionally well.
Cognitive adaptability: They can quickly and efficiently adapt to sudden and unpredictable changes. This mental agility is a major asset in bouncing back after setbacks or stepping out of their comfort zone.
Versatility and flexibility: Whether in management, design, or sales, these profiles excel in various roles, particularly in dynamic environments such as entrepreneurship or independent projects.
Commitment and drive: Multipotential individuals passionately engage in ambitious projects and have a strong impact on collective motivation.
The Challenges of Multipotentials
However, this diversity of talents also presents challenges. Multipotentials can become bored quickly if they are not intellectually stimulated enough, leading to demotivation. Their sensitivity and emotional intensity are often heightened, which can be both a strength and a burden, especially in more structured professional environments.
How to Cultivate Adaptive Curiosity?
Here are a few strategies to make the most of this skill:
Awareness and acceptance of multipotentiality
It’s crucial for multipotential individuals to recognise and accept the richness of their talents. This acceptance process allows them to view their wide-ranging interests as a strength rather than a lack of focus.
Encourage continuous learning
Offering diverse learning opportunities such as cross-functional projects or varied training, can help multipotentials stay engaged and strengthen their self-esteem.
Managing intense emotions
Emotions like frustration or annoyance can arise when multipotential individuals feel they aren’t living up to their potential. Techniques like meditation or mindfulness practices can help channel these emotions positively.
Find a mentor or coach
Having a mentor who understands the specific challenges of multipotentials is an invaluable asset. This support provides a framework for overcoming obstacles and maximising their professional development.
For multipotentials, cultivating and leveraging their adaptive curiosity is essential. This often misunderstood skill can become a true asset, both personally and professionally. If you see yourself in this profile, don’t hesitate to fully explore this potential and use it as a lever for your success.
