Definitions: (1) extraordinary intelligence beyond superior individuals; (2) an outstanding gift for some specialized activity, particularly skilled in one or more fields; (3) the personification or embodiment of a quality or condition; generative
Derivation: Mid 17th century, “exceptional genetic ability”
Synonyms: clever, creative, ingenious, talented, wise
Balancing Qualities:
• Genius is eternal patience. — Michelangelo di Lodovico Buonarroti Simon (1475-1564) Italian polymath [four disciplines]
• A man with genius is unendurable if he does not also possess at least two other things: gratitude and cleanliness. — Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche (1844-1900) German philosopher
Quotes:
• Mediocrity is self-inflicted, and genius is self-bestowed. — Walter Russell (1871-1963) American Polymath [four disciplines]
• Everyone knows about Newton’s apple. Charles Darwin said his Origin of the Species {1859} flashed complete in one second, and he spent the rest of his life backing it up; and the theory of relativity occurred to Einstein in the time it takes to clap your hands. This is the greatest mystery of the human mind–the inductive leap. Everything falls into place, irrelevancies relate, dissonance becomes harmony, and nonsense wears a crown of meaning. — John Steinbeck (1902-1968) American writer
Comment: Genius is not just relegated to math (Einstein) or music (Mozart) or writing (Shakespeare). You can be a genius of any quality or talent. The Scottish write of a genius for friendship. Genius is not only innate, or bestowed, it can also be developed.
Celebrated: International Genius Day is on March 14th.
Symbol: a single [hidden] pearl (Chinese)
Legend: An ancient Roman belief held that each person is assigned a guardian spirit at birth. This spirit is referred to as a Genius and is the person’s natural ability. It carries the person’s destiny and inspires the person to become the true genius they have the potential of being.