
Good morning Jeannie, I too am not a linear thinker. I fail most standardized tests, yet I graduated with a 4.0 GPA from one of the best aeronautical institutions on the planet (my SAT and LSAT scores were in the subterranean range). Based upon my SAT scores I could never successfully complete college. Most of my success in the business world has been finding unique (off the wall) solutions to major challenges. I am good with math and do a lot of programming, but I fit the solution to the problem in non-traditional ways.
My greatest strength throughout my professional and military career has been to surround myself with people way smarter than me and leverage their talents. I'm also very good at finding other non-linear thinkers who have potential (if developed) and helping them develop that potential. I've often heard the boss tell me that this is a square peg in a round hole and later be amazed at how well that individual is doing. People just need the opportunity to express themselves and feel valued.
My last boss (total linear thinker) argued that every new venture I pursued would fail and to his amazement they excelled. The customer was thrilled and wanted to throw more money at me to solve more of their problems. Often times problems he'd declared unsolvable.