The Wisdom Research Project

Between October 2022 and April 2023, I conducted interviews with 60 individuals across North America, each nominated as someone considered "wise". These participants, aged 50 to 79, were recommended by others through a rigorous complicated system.   To ensure objectivity, self-nominations and nominations of parents were not allowed. Each interview lasted at least 15 minutes (the majority lasted over thirty minutes) and was guided by 10 open-ended questions exploring life experiences, values, and wisdom.

During these interviews, participants answered questions such as:

• What life experiences shaped you?

• What values guide your daily life?

• How do you handle life’s challenges?

• What words of wisdom would you share with younger generations?

To expand the network, interviewees were encouraged to nominate others they considered wise, allowing the project to grow organically. In most cases, interviews were recorded, and themes were identified through qualitative analysis. Importantly, our research did not define wisdom narrowly—instead, we allowed it to emerge through real stories and lived experience.

As the conversations unfolded, recurring themes began to emerge. Through this analysis, I and a team of researchers identified eight core traits commonly found in wise individuals:

• Resilience – The ability to endure challenges

• Kindness – A spirit of generosity and empathy

• Positivity – An optimistic outlook on life

• Spirituality – Belief in something greater than oneself

• Humility – A modest, grounded presence

• Tolerance – Acceptance of others’ differences

• Creativity – Thinking in original or flexible ways

• Curiosity – A strong desire to learn and understand

Notably, each person exhibited at least two of these traits, with most showing five or more. Remarkably, only one individual demonstrated all eight.  Each chapter in Common Wisdom(opens in new tab) is dedicated to one of the above elements.