The benefit and use of math is seriously questioned in many public debates, schools and societies today. Why should we learn mathematical concepts we never use in life, not ever at work? Amid generalizing digitalization, why should children get good at calculation? The present Ted-talk guides us through the mathematical solving process of a tricky problem beleived to be posed by North African queen Dihya. Doing so, it shows that math helps us develop an extremely valuable success skill: conditional creativity. Behind this skill lies our very ability to shape our lives, but also become an attractive person able to make a difference. Maybe for the first time in a long time of humankind’s history, the benefit and use of math is seriously questioned in public debates, schools and society. In a world of increasing automation and generalizing digitalization, why should today’s children get good at calculating? Why should we struggle learning mathematical concepts that we most probably never use in our daily life, sometimes, not ever at work? Truth it has never been as crucial to get as good as it is now. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx