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Objectively good spaces to work rarely end up being so; in their faultlessness, quiet and well-equipped studios have a habit of rendering the fear of failure overwhelming. Original thoughts are like shy animals. We sometimes have to look the other way - towards a busy street or terminal - before they run out of their burrows.
Alain De Botton
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Perfect workspaces can stifle creativity and induce fear of failure.

Alain De Botton suggests that while ideal work environments might seem beneficial, they can unintentionally create pressure that inhibits originality. He likens original ideas to shy animals, which require an unguarded moment or distraction to emerge from hiding, highlighting the need for a less intimidating atmosphere to foster creativity.

Themes

CreativityFearWorkplacePressureOriginality

In practice

Example use cases

During a motivational speech about fostering innovation in the workplace.

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