What is something that almost nobody knows about mathematicians?

 One thing that almost nobody knows about mathematicians is that many of them deeply value creativity and intuition in their work, contrary to the stereotype that mathematics is purely logical and rigid. While mathematics is often associated with strict rules and formal proofs, the process of discovering new mathematical truths often requires a great deal of imagination and creative thinking. Mathematicians frequently rely on intuition to guide them toward conjectures or to develop new approaches to problems. This creative process can be more akin to that of an artist or a writer than the methodical image people typically have of mathematicians.

Another surprising aspect is that mathematicians often experience moments of deep emotional engagement with their work. The process of solving a difficult problem or proving a challenging theorem can evoke strong emotions, ranging from frustration and doubt to joy and satisfaction. The famous Hungarian mathematician Paul Erdős referred to such moments of discovery as glimpses of "The Book," an imaginary place where the most beautiful mathematical proofs are kept. For many mathematicians, the pursuit of such elegant and insightful solutions is a deeply personal and emotionally rewarding endeavor.

Moreover, mathematicians frequently work in a highly collaborative environment, which contrasts with the common perception of them as solitary figures. Mathematical research often involves extensive collaboration, with mathematicians working together across different fields and even different countries. Many mathematical papers are co-authored, and mathematicians regularly attend conferences and workshops to share ideas, challenge each other's work, and collaborate on solving problems. This collaborative spirit is an essential part of the mathematical community, fostering both innovation and camaraderie.

Lastly, something that might surprise many is that mathematicians often embrace uncertainty and open-ended questions. In mathematics, not every problem has a known solution, and some questions remain unsolved for years, decades, or even centuries. Mathematicians are comfortable working in these uncertain spaces, often pursuing lines of inquiry without knowing where they will lead or if they will even result in a solution. This willingness to engage with the unknown and to explore without guaranteed success is a crucial, yet underappreciated, aspect of mathematical research.