Genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration. The quote “Genius is 1 percent inspiration, and 99 percent perspiration” by Thomas Alva Edison, an American inventor, suggests that genius often results from hard work. However, let’s delve deeper into this concept.
To comprehend this quote thoroughly, let’s first examine the term “genius.”
Does Inspiration Make You a Genius?
What is a Genius?
Genius is the outcome of training and knowledge acquired through years of study and application. It entails working towards achieving perfection with minimal effort and remarkable effectiveness.
Inspiration is one of the most potent forces in the universe. It has the ability to propel a person from where they are to where they want to be. It can evoke feelings of excitement, motivation, and vitality.
When you are inspired, you are in a state of genius. You are connected to your higher self and intuition, operating at your highest level. In this state, there are no limits to what you can create or achieve.
If a great idea strikes you and you feel inspired, follow that emotional energy. The thrill lies in exploring, comprehending, and putting the idea into action to achieve optimal results.
However, there are times when inspiration seems elusive, especially during periods of unhappiness and stress. Your focus may cloud your mind, blocking inspiration. So, how do we find inspiration?
99% Perspiration: Motivation to Work Hard
Motivation is essential to drive you to get things done and progress in life. It serves as the impetus to work hard and accomplish tasks.
Similarly, we need inspiration and ambition to initiate our efforts. Without focusing on our intentions and goals, we cannot succeed in achieving our plans.
Motivation helps prevent procrastination. It stems from being inspired to pursue something that motivates us to work diligently and complete tasks.
Steven Pressfield aptly said, “At some point, the pain of not doing it becomes greater than the pain of doing it.” Sometimes, the motivation to work hard arises from a desire to change an enduring unhappy situation.
The quote “99% perspiration and 1% inspiration” makes sense in such instances. It signifies the necessity of putting effort and hard work into effecting change.
Innovation – How Do We Get Inspired?
To find inspiration when feeling down, engage in activities that genuinely bring you happiness and contentment, even if they are as simple as taking a walk during your lunch break.
When faced with adversity, counter negative thoughts with positive ideas. Positive thinking can inspire you to move in a different direction, fostering progress instead of stagnation.
Remember, inspiration often leads to dedication and hard work. While obstacles may arise, failure is part of the learning process on the path to success.
Where Does That 1% Inspiration Come From?
There are countless ways to find inspiration when feeling down. Transforming hopes into dreams is a great starting point. Writing down aspirations and discussing them can boost inspiration and motivation.
Lastly, revisit a time when you felt inspired and motivated. Recall the activities that contributed to those feelings, as this may help reignite inspiration.
Remember, when inspiration strikes, take action! It may not happen right away, but staying with this thought process is much more productive for you to find inspiration. You will also feel a lot more optimistic about the situation in your life.
Genius is 1% Inspiration and 99% Perspiration