Ideation and alone time

The notion of the lone genius emerged in the Enlightenment and continues to fascinate both creative mind and the public at large. However, in an age of interaction, collaboration and participatory design, the lone genius has been reduced to a rather romantic mythical figure. Yet research suggests that alone time, but not isolation can be beneficial for creativity. For example, the US psychologist Gregory Feist has found that personality traits commonly associated with creativity are openness (receptiveness to new thoughts and experiences), self-efficacy (confidence), and autonomy (independence) – which may include “a preference for being alone”. In fact, Feist’s research on both artists and scientists shows that one of the most prominent features of creative people is their lesser interest in socialising. One reason for this is that creatives are likely to spend sustained time alone which allows for the reflection and observation necessary for that creative process. This need also highlights the difference between ideation, which requires sustained attention and deep focus and "brainstorming", that is a decidedly sociable process. But being social also means that when we surround ourselves with others, we are influenced by their opinions and aesthetics. To truly chart our own path or vision, then, we have to be willing to spend time alone, at least for some period of time.