Keep on the lookout for novel ideas that others have used successfully. Your idea has to be original only in its adaptation to the problem you're working on.
Thomas A. EdisonRead
One might think that the money value of an invention constitutes its reward to the man who loves his work. But... I continue to find my greatest pleasure, and so my reward, in the work that precedes what the world calls success.
Interpretation
What this quote means
True fulfillment comes from passion and hard work rather than just monetary gain.
In this quote, Thomas A. Edison emphasizes that the intrinsic joy and satisfaction derived from the work itself is far more rewarding than any financial benefit that might come as a result of that work. He suggests that genuine passion for one's craft and the process of creation are the true measures of success, and that focusing solely on financial outcomes can overshadow the pleasure found in the journey of invention.
Themes
InventionRewardPassionWorkSuccess
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can inspire entrepreneurs at a startup event to focus on their passion.
More from Thomas A. Edison
All quotes →If we did all the things we are capable of doing, we would literally astound ourselves.
Thomas A. EdisonRead
I am a vegetarian as well as a passionate anti-alcoholic, because I can thus make better use of my brain.
Thomas A. EdisonRead
Genius is not inspired. Inspiration is perspiration.
Thomas A. EdisonRead
I didn't fail 1000 times. The light bulb was an invention with 1000 steps.
Thomas A. EdisonRead
There is no substitute for hard work.
Thomas A. EdisonRead
Similar quotes
If I make two movies my entire life, and they're two movies that - whether they make a lot of money or two people go to see them - they speak of me, then I consider them incredibly successful. I don't need to be Steven Spielberg.
Jodie FosterRead
Every match I go into, I'm the huge favorite. I lose a set and it's, like, crazy.
Roger FedererRead
Great work requires great and persistent effort for a long time. ... Character has to be established through a thousand stumbles.
Swami VivekanandaRead
We built this country by making things, by producing goods we could sell.
Barack ObamaRead
The individual who wants to reach the top in business must appreciate the might and force of habit. He must be quick to break those habits that can break him-and hasten to adopt those practices that will become the habits that help him achieve the success he desires.
J. Paul GettyRead
The ladder of success is best climbed by stepping on the rungs of opportunity.
Ayn RandRead