Question: what are the characteristics of successful innovators?
Answer: Divergent Thinking. Where most people see an overwhelming galaxy of ideas, successful innovators see the individual stars and planets and can theorize on how they might relate to one another. ... 
Insatiable Curiosity. ... 
Infectious Passion. ... 
Stamina. ... 
Compelling Leadership. ... 
Respect for Other Innovators. ... 
Courage.