“When I have finally decided that a result is worth getting, I go ahead on it and make trial after trial until it comes.”
– Thomas Edison
Thomas Edison is known for his perseverance. He is recognized as a successful inventor, one who never gave up. Throughout his life, Edison established the first industrial research laboratory and has over 2,000 patents worldwide. [While he did not actually invent the first light bulb, he did create an improved version of the incandescent electric lamp.] His intellectual war with Nikola Tesla regarding electrical currents has also been well-known and even put Edison in a dimmer light by some; but nonetheless, no one can deny Edison’s ability to keep going.
Many people do not realize that Edison was more than just an inventor – he was a businessman. At 12 years old, he was selling newspapers and by 15, Edison was publishing the Grand Trunk Herald. When he opened his research laboratory in Menlo, New Jersey, people discovered that he was working with a team of researchers – which was uncommon at the time. In fact, throughout his achievements, he utilized the assistance of several people. He started a trend of laboratories operating under teams.
Edison’s idea of continuing until he reached his goal is a concept that people can use in their everyday lives. Discovering that something will be difficult should not deter you from meeting your goal. Find ways to change up what you’re in doing in a way that make your job more efficient. Test, try, make notes, and re-evaluate. You will never reach the stars if you give up mid-flight.
