How Rare Is Innovative Talent?

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There are about 8 billion people on Earth.

According to my rushed google search, there are around 450 players in the nba and 550 active or semi-active astronauts. If you consider basketball players good enough to play in the nba and retired and aspiring astronauts who could make the cut, you have less than a thousand each.

Out of 8 billion people.

If I think of the highest level creative talents, there are probably fewer than a thousand people in the world who can consistently catch excellent ideas, communicate them clearly, and facilitate their execution effectively.

Most successful creative people aren’t at this level.

Google says that there are around 70,000 people on Earth who are paid to play basketball professionally. There around 350,000 people employed by space agencies. There are probably 30 million or so who are employed in jobs that would be described as “creative”. Less than a million would be considered career creatives. Google doesn’t seem to have the answer, but I’m going to venture to say that the number is less than half a million.

Out of 8 billion people.

If you are one of those career creatives, you are rare. Not quite as rare as hens’ teeth or pro basketballers, but rare nonetheless.

This rarity isn’t just a matter of raw talent; it’s a combination of skill, persistence, and the ability to navigate the complexities of translating ideas into reality. Creative professionals at the top of their game aren’t just dreamers—they're doers. We take nebulous concepts and mold them into something tangible, whether it’s a campaign that resonates with millions, a design that changes how people live, or a story that moves hearts and minds.

But here’s the thing: being rare doesn’t always feel special. In fact, for many creatives, it can feel isolating. You may be surrounded by people who don’t quite understand your process or who underestimate the value of your work. You might face the pressure of constant innovation, where the expectation is to not just be good, but to be brilliant—every single time.

So, what do you do with this rarity? How do you turn it into a strength rather than a burden?

First, embrace it. Recognize that your ability to consistently generate, communicate, and execute creative ideas sets you apart. This isn’t about ego; it’s about understanding your value and what you bring to the table. You’re not just a cog in the machine—you’re a key player in shaping the future, whether that’s in your industry or in the world at large.

Second, connect with others who share your level of creative intensity. The creative journey can be a lonely one, but it doesn’t have to be. Surround yourself with people who challenge you, inspire you, and understand the highs and lows of the creative process. These connections can be a source of support, collaboration, and even new ideas.

Finally, keep pushing the boundaries of your creativity. Being rare means you have the potential to do things others can’t—or won’t. Don’t settle for what’s expected. Instead, take risks, explore new territories, and continue to evolve. The world needs more people like you who aren’t afraid to think differently and make something new.

So...

In a world of 8 billion people, being a career creative is a remarkable thing. It’s a role that comes with challenges, but also with immense rewards. So, own your rarity, connect with your tribe, and never stop pushing the limits of what’s possible. Because in the end, it’s people like you who shape the world—and that’s something truly special.