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
I would construct and work along various lines until I found them untenable. When one theory was discarded, I developed another at once. I realized very early that this was the only possible way for me to work out all the problems.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote emphasizes the importance of adaptability and resilience in problem-solving.
Thomas A. Edison reflects on his process of innovation, highlighting the necessity of flexibility in thought and the willingness to abandon theories that do not work. By acknowledging the iterative nature of his work, he teaches us that failure is simply a stepping stone to success and that persistent experimentation is crucial in resolving challenges.
Themes
AdaptabilityInnovationProblem-SolvingExperimentationResilience
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a motivational speech for entrepreneurs.
More from Thomas A. Edison
All quotes →If we did all the things we are capable of doing, we would literally astound ourselves.
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Genius is not inspired. Inspiration is perspiration.
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I didn't fail 1000 times. The light bulb was an invention with 1000 steps.
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There is no substitute for hard work.
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