I used to think that in order for you to be successful in your career, you needed to be smart academically. The type of intelligence I knew before was the measurement of how you did well in school. After working for three decades in the international field, where I encountered numerous successful individuals, I realized that intelligence extends beyond mere academic excellence or what Steinberg refers to as analytical strength. Sternberg reiterated in his theory of successful intelligence that there are three areas that need to be aligned and work successfully intelligently, which are the analytical, creative, and practical components to succeed in the workplaces (Sternberg, 2005).
Embracing a Broader Definition of Intelligence
I started my career in marketing because being strong analytically and logically can make me a better and more competitive employee amongst my peers. I was an information- and data-hungry individual that consumed and digested every bit of evidence that I could get my hands on to deliver a perfect business plan on the projects given to me by the company. This is mainly aligned with what I have learned, mainly hanging in to theories and concepts of business planning. But Sternberg (2005) actually contested that this concept alone will not be successful unless it is reinforced by creativity and practical skills. It turns out that intelligence, or knowing all data and information, is useless unless creative intelligence is applied that can produce out-of-the box ideas that can be practically applied in real-life scenarios. No wonder the Bill Gates garage project was a success story over the giant IBM at that time, but this was another success story.
Balancing different types of intelligence
Sternberg’s theory (2005) emphasizes that if you manage to create synergy and balance in these three areas of intelligence, which are being analytical, creative, and practical, it will give you an edge over your career. In my past positions, I focused heavily on data and market information. However, I have come to realize the significance of nurturing creativity, and hands-on abilities are also of equal importance. For example, coming up with ideas is the key driver in crafting marketing plans, while having practical know-how is essential for executing these plans creatively to be successful. Striking this equilibrium is crucial for thriving in a paced and competitive market (Sternberg, 2005). If I had not struck a balance on these three areas in my line of work here in Dubai, I should not have survived the first couple of years.
Integrated Approach to Problem-Solving
Throughout the years, as the market changes over and over again, strategies and approaches need to be revised and adapted in tackling problems. Sternberg’s theory emphasizes merging creative and practical abilities to address challenges efficiently. This inclusive perspective has motivated me to not only assess problems but also brainstorm innovative solutions and evaluate their real-world viability (Sternberg, 2005). Implementing this method has yielded results in creating and implementing marketing campaigns that make a mark in the competitive market of the UAE.
Real-World Success and Practical Intelligence
Sternberg points out that achieving success in the world often depends on intelligence, which involves being able to adapt to different situations that influence them and make choices that help you reach your objectives (2005). This idea has been especially important in my experience as an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) living and working in Dubai, as the UAE market is made up of 85% expats, which share sentiments as I do. Practical intelligence includes understanding the complexities of the workplace, grasping the intricacies of the market, and using my expertise in ways that connect with groups of people. Recognizing this has led me to focus on honing and utilizing skills for long-term achievement.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when I reflect on the three decades of experience I have working here in Dubai, which was a long journey of success and failures, I believe that I have gone through Sternberg’s theory of successful intelligence in my career. Taking up this course material right now has made me realize that Sternberg’s theory really makes sense and is applicable in the real world.
References
Sternberg, R. (2005). Successful intelligence. Interamerican Journal of Psychology – 2005, Vol. 39, Num. 2 pp. 189-202. Available at http://www.psicorip.org/Resumos/PerP/RIP/RIP036a0/RIP03921.pdf
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