People tend to talk about how creative others are (i.e., quantity), rather than how they’re creative (i.e., style). In truth, the amount may not be the thing that most distinguishes creativity.
Mediators are one of the least likely types to consider themselves more practical than creative.
Mediators are the most likely personality type to choose creative/artistic jobs. While this may not directly speak to accomplished creativity, their aspirations consistently aim at creating original material.
If asked to choose between the two, Mediators are very unlikely to pick editing over writing. Editing is, by definition, an adaptive exercise – refining work that has already been created.
In the worst-case scenario, Mediators may fail to connect with anyone but those who are on their wavelength, or find themselves jumping from idea to idea in superficial ways – being charmed more by novelty than purpose. Sometimes “good enough” is good enough. But that message can be lost on people bent on innovation.
Opportunities
Innovating Mediators, in a best-case scenario, may end up discovering revolutionary ideas never considered. This can make them cutting-edge “idea people,” if they remain balanced and keep practical ends in mind.
Here are some tips for Mediators to balance out innovative ideas:
Try to collaborate with someone who has practical leanings as a balance to some of your more unconventional ideas.
Remember that extremes are often, almost by definition, counterproductive. Conventional ideas aren’t always interesting, but they probably become conventions for a reason. Usefulness and expediency tend to trump stimulating ideas in most situations.
On the other hand, there’s no progress without someone “pushing the envelope.” So, push on – but maintain effectiveness as the final goal.
