Introduction
In "The Element," Ken Robinson explores the concept of finding one's true passion and purpose in life. He argues that when people discover their element – the intersection of their natural aptitude and personal passion – they can unlock their full potential and lead more fulfilling lives. This book is a guide to help readers identify their own element and overcome the obstacles that may be preventing them from pursuing it.
Robinson, an internationally recognized leader in education and creativity, draws on his extensive experience and research to provide insights and real-life examples of people who have found their element. He challenges conventional notions of intelligence and success, encouraging readers to embrace their unique talents and interests.
The Concept of "The Element"
Defining Your Element
Robinson introduces the concept of "the element" as the point where natural talent meets personal passion. It's a state where individuals feel most themselves, most inspired, and achieve their highest levels of performance. The author emphasizes that finding one's element is not just about career success but about personal fulfillment and living a life true to oneself.
Two Key Features: Aptitude and Passion
The element consists of two crucial components:
Aptitude: This is what most people refer to as "talent." It's the natural ability or skill that comes easily to an individual. Aptitude can manifest in various ways, from a knack for mathematics to a gift for music or a talent for public speaking.
Passion: While aptitude is important, it's not enough on its own. Passion is the deep love and enthusiasm for an activity that drives a person to dedicate time and effort to it. It's what makes the pursuit of a skill or interest feel less like work and more like pleasure.
Robinson illustrates this concept with the story of Charles, a keyboard player in his brother's band. When the author complimented Charles on his playing and mentioned that he loved playing the keyboard too, Charles responded that the author didn't truly love it – because if he did, he would be doing it. Charles practiced for hours every day, not out of obligation, but because it was his passion.
The Path to Finding Your Element
The Right Attitude
Robinson emphasizes that finding one's element requires more than just luck – it demands the right attitude. He shares the inspiring story of John Wilson, who was blinded in a chemistry class accident at the age of twelve. Instead of letting this setback defeat him, Wilson embraced his new reality with determination. He quickly learned Braille, excelled in his studies, and went on to play a crucial role in founding Sight Savers International, an organization dedicated to preventing and treating blindness in developing countries.
This example illustrates how a positive and resilient attitude can help individuals overcome obstacles and find their element, even in the face of significant challenges.
The Importance of Opportunity
While attitude is crucial, Robinson also stresses the importance of opportunity in discovering one's element. He uses the analogy of a talented pearl diver living in the Sahara Desert – without the right environment, even the most exceptional talents may go unnoticed or unused.
The author shares his own experience of how opportunity shaped his path. As a child who contracted polio, Robinson attended a school for children with disabilities. His potential might have gone unrecognized if not for a visiting public official, Mr. Stafford, who noticed his intelligence and arranged for him to take a special test. This opportunity led to Robinson's acceptance into a good college and set him on a path to success, with Mr. Stafford becoming a mentor and friend.
Redefining Intelligence
The Diverse Nature of Intelligence
Robinson challenges the conventional understanding of intelligence, which often focuses on academic performance or IQ tests. He argues that intelligence is far more diverse and multifaceted than these narrow measures suggest.
To illustrate this point, he shares the story of Gordon Parks, a renowned American photographer, filmmaker, author, and composer. Despite limited formal education, Parks taught himself various skills and excelled in multiple creative fields. This example demonstrates that intelligence can manifest in many ways beyond traditional academic measures.
The Dynamic Nature of Intelligence
The author emphasizes that intelligence is not a fixed trait but a dynamic force that can be developed and expanded. He draws parallels between intelligence and the human brain, which constantly forms new connections and adapts to new challenges.
Robinson uses the example of Albert Einstein to illustrate this point. When faced with complex mathematical problems, Einstein would often play his violin. This change of pace would stimulate new connections in his mind, leading to solutions that might otherwise have eluded him. This anecdote highlights the importance of engaging different forms of thinking and creativity to enhance overall intelligence.
The Distinctive Quality of Intelligence
Robinson argues that each person's intelligence is as unique as their fingerprint. No two individuals use their intelligence in exactly the same way, even if they're pursuing similar goals or working in the same field.
For instance, he points out that while some architects might excel through formal study of mathematics and engineering at top universities, others might develop their skills through world travel and observation of various structures and shapes. This diversity in approach underscores the importance of recognizing and valuing individual differences in intelligence and learning styles.
The Importance of Finding Your Tribe
The Role of Community in Discovering Your Element
Robinson emphasizes that finding one's element is not a solitary journey. He introduces the concept of finding your "tribe" – a group of like-minded individuals who share your passions and perspectives. This tribe can provide support, inspiration, and a sense of belonging that is crucial in pursuing your element.
The author uses the example of actress Meg Ryan to illustrate this point. Despite excelling in various academic fields, Ryan found her true tribe on film sets. It was among actors, cameramen, and directors that she discovered people who shared her unique view of the world and her passion for storytelling through film.
The State of Flow
Robinson describes how being in one's element often leads to a state of complete absorption, similar to what psychologists call "flow." In this state, individuals lose track of time and become fully immersed in their activity.
He shares the experience of Ewa Laurance, a Swedish-American pool player, who sometimes feels as though everything around her disappears when she's playing. She can play for nine hours straight while feeling as if only 30 minutes have passed. This state of flow is a strong indicator that one has found their element.
However, Robinson cautions that it's unrealistic to expect to be in this state of flow constantly. He acknowledges that distractions and less-than-ideal situations are a normal part of life, even when pursuing one's passion.
Overcoming Barriers to Finding Your Element
Personal Barriers
Robinson acknowledges that everyone faces self-doubt and personal barriers when searching for their element. He uses the story of American artist Chuck Close to illustrate how these barriers can be overcome.
Close faced numerous challenges, including physical problems, a learning disorder, poor performance in school and sports, and a difficult home life. Despite these obstacles, his passion for art kept him motivated. Even when a blood clot left him paralyzed and unable to hold a paintbrush, Close adapted by learning to hold the brush with his teeth, demonstrating the power of determination in pursuing one's element.
Social Barriers
In addition to personal barriers, Robinson discusses the social obstacles that can hinder the pursuit of one's element. He shares the story of Brazilian author Paulo Coelho, whose parents were so opposed to his artistic aspirations that they had him committed to a psychiatric asylum three times.
This extreme example underscores the importance of staying true to oneself, even in the face of social pressure or disapproval from loved ones. Robinson emphasizes that while the opinions of others can be influential, ultimately, only the individual can truly find and pursue their element.
It's Never Too Late
Age is Not a Barrier
Robinson challenges the common belief that there's a "right" age for certain accomplishments or pursuits. He argues that while aging is a linear process, the development of skills and the discovery of passions don't have to follow a strict timeline.
To illustrate this point, he shares the story of Harriet Doerr, who returned to college at the age of 65 and published her first novel at 72. This example demonstrates that it's rarely too late to pursue new interests or develop latent talents.
The Value of Amateur Pursuits
The author emphasizes that being in one's element doesn't necessarily mean becoming a professional or achieving fame and fortune. He argues that amateur pursuits can be just as fulfilling and important in discovering and living one's element.
Robinson uses the example of Gabriel Trop, an academic who pursued cello playing alongside his career in German literature. Despite becoming lead cellist in his university orchestra after just a year of playing, Trop chose to keep music as an amateur pursuit while pursuing literature professionally. This decision allowed him to enjoy both passions without the financial stress that might have come with a professional music career.
The Broader Impact of Finding Your Element
Personal Fulfillment
Throughout the book, Robinson emphasizes that finding one's element leads to a deep sense of personal fulfillment. When individuals align their natural talents with their passions, they experience a greater sense of purpose and satisfaction in their lives.
This fulfillment extends beyond just the activity itself. People who have found their element often report feeling more confident, energized, and content in other areas of their lives as well. The author argues that this is because being in one's element allows individuals to express their authentic selves and live in alignment with their true nature.
Societal Benefits
Robinson also discusses the broader societal benefits of individuals finding their element. When people are engaged in work or activities that truly resonate with them, they are more likely to be productive, innovative, and contribute positively to their communities.
He suggests that a society where more people have found their element would be more dynamic, creative, and harmonious. This is because individuals who are fulfilled and engaged are more likely to be empathetic, collaborative, and invested in the well-being of others.
Practical Steps to Finding Your Element
Self-Reflection
Robinson encourages readers to engage in deep self-reflection to identify their natural aptitudes and passions. He suggests asking questions such as:
- What activities do you lose yourself in?
- What did you love doing as a child?
- What subjects or activities make you feel most alive?
Experimentation
The author emphasizes the importance of trying new things and being open to different experiences. He encourages readers to step out of their comfort zones and explore various activities, even if they seem unrelated to their current path.
Seeking Mentors and Role Models
Robinson highlights the value of finding mentors and role models who have successfully pursued their passions. These individuals can provide guidance, inspiration, and practical advice on navigating the challenges of finding and pursuing one's element.
Continuous Learning
The author stresses that finding one's element is an ongoing process that requires continuous learning and growth. He encourages readers to remain curious, to seek out new knowledge and skills, and to be open to evolving their understanding of their own talents and passions.
Conclusion
In "The Element," Ken Robinson presents a compelling case for the importance of discovering and pursuing one's true passions and talents. He challenges conventional notions of success and intelligence, encouraging readers to embrace a more holistic and individualized approach to personal fulfillment.
Through numerous examples and anecdotes, Robinson illustrates that finding one's element is not just about achieving professional success, but about living a life that feels authentic and meaningful. He emphasizes that this journey is unique for each individual and may involve overcoming personal and social barriers.
The author's message is ultimately one of hope and empowerment. He argues that it's never too late to discover one's element and that the pursuit of passion can lead to profound personal satisfaction and broader societal benefits.
Robinson concludes by encouraging readers to take an active role in their own journey of self-discovery. By reflecting on their natural aptitudes, exploring new experiences, seeking out like-minded individuals, and remaining open to continuous learning, anyone can work towards finding their element.
"The Element" serves as both an inspirational guide and a practical roadmap for those seeking to align their lives more closely with their true passions and talents. It challenges readers to reconsider their definitions of success and intelligence, and to embrace the unique combination of aptitudes and interests that make them who they are.
In a world that often emphasizes conformity and traditional measures of achievement, Robinson's book stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of individuality, creativity, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment. It offers a vision of a society where more people are engaged in work and activities that truly resonate with them, leading to greater innovation, productivity, and overall well-being.
Ultimately, "The Element" is a call to action for individuals to embark on the rewarding journey of self-discovery and to create lives that are not just successful by conventional standards, but deeply satisfying and true to their authentic selves.