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Synopsis

Originals — the non-conformists who change the world—are not just bold risk-takers who leap into the unknown. In fact, everyone can make an impact and challenge the status quo—in their workplace, their communities, or the wider world. The key is learning how to recognize and develop new ideas; how to persuade others; and how to manage the risks.

Questions and answers

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A manufacturing company can apply the innovative approaches discussed in 'Originals' by fostering a culture that encourages non-conformity and original thinking. This could involve creating spaces for employees to develop and share new ideas, and implementing strategies to manage the risks associated with innovation. The company could also focus on persuading others, both within and outside the organization, of the value of these new ideas and approaches.

The lessons from 'Originals' can be applied in today's rapidly changing business environment by encouraging innovation and original thinking. This can be done by recognizing and developing new ideas, persuading others of their value, and managing the associated risks. In a rapidly changing environment, it is crucial to challenge the status quo and be open to new ways of doing things. This involves taking calculated risks and persuading others to buy into your vision. It also involves being resilient in the face of failure and learning from mistakes to continuously improve and adapt.

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You don't have to be born creative to be an original; in fact, you're more likely to be someone who produces a lot of projects and ideas and takes the time to spot the one worth championing. Procrastination, caution, and balancing risks actually help to unleash originality.

And once you have a great idea, there are steps you can follow to make sure that you pitch your idea to the right people, at the right time. You can unleash and sustain originality at home and at work, learn the best ways to encourage originality in your children and discover how to create a culture of originality in your company.

Questions and answers

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Yes, the ideas presented in the book "Originals" can be applied to contemporary issues and debates. The book provides insights on how to develop novel ideas, mitigate risks, persuade others, and change perspectives. These principles can be applied to various contemporary issues and debates to foster originality and innovation.

Implementing a culture of originality in a traditional business sector can face several challenges. Firstly, resistance to change is a common issue as employees in traditional sectors are often used to established ways of working and may be reluctant to adopt new, original ideas. Secondly, there may be a lack of resources or skills necessary to implement original ideas. Lastly, there may be a lack of support from management who may be risk-averse.

These challenges can be overcome by firstly, creating a supportive environment that encourages and rewards original thinking. This can be done by providing training and resources necessary for innovation. Secondly, management should be involved in the process and should be made to understand the benefits of originality. Lastly, a gradual approach can be taken to implement new ideas, starting with small changes and gradually moving to bigger ones.

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Summary

Originals are the ones who reject the default option, produce a lot of work, and take the time to recognize the original idea. They take a balanced approach to risk that leaves them free to think outside the box. They are open to new ideas, probably nurturing this with an involvement in the arts. Originals take the time to build their status so that they can persuade others; and they don't shy from laying out the negatives of their idea up front. In some situations, it can be beneficial to be the pioneer, the first in a new market or territory; but often, it is better in the long run to be a settler, learning from others' mistakes to create something even better. Procrastination can unleash the truly original idea, and experimental innovators get better with time. Originals learn to temper their radicalism to build coalitions of allies. As children, originals were likely later born, with parents who used reason to disciple. It is possible to build an organizational culture that encourages original thinking. And, when the going gets tough, defensive pessimism and deep acting can keep us moving forward.

Questions and answers

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An organizational culture that encourages original thinking and innovation can be built by fostering an environment that values creativity and risk-taking. This can be achieved by promoting open communication, where employees feel safe to express their ideas without fear of criticism or rejection. Encouraging collaboration and diversity can also lead to a wider range of ideas and perspectives. Additionally, providing opportunities for continuous learning and development can help employees to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions. Recognizing and rewarding original ideas can further motivate employees to think creatively.

Procrastination can help in unleashing truly original ideas by providing the time and space for the mind to wander and explore different perspectives and possibilities. It allows for a period of incubation where ideas can be refined and improved upon. Instead of rushing to complete a task or project, procrastination can lead to a more thoughtful and creative approach. This can result in more original and innovative ideas. However, it's important to note that this doesn't mean all forms of procrastination are beneficial. It's the thoughtful, deliberate delay of tasks, not the chronic avoidance of work, that can lead to creativity.

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Going against the grain

There are two routes to achievement—conformity and originality. Of course, nothing is completely original; we are all constantly borrowing ideas and thoughts, intentionally or not. Originals are people who take the initiative to make their visions a reality.

Reject the default option

Why do some customer service agents stay in their jobs longer than others? Economist Michael Housman tried to find out by looking at data from over 30,000 employees who handled customer service phone calls across a range of industries. The one surprising correlation he found was that employees who used Firefox or Chrome as their internet browser remained in their jobs 15% longer than those who used Explorer or Safari. Further digging revealed the reason why: Explorer is the default browser for Windows, and Safari is the default for Mac users. Employees who accept the default browser treat their jobs the same way, accepting the job descriptions as fixed. When they are unhappy at work, they quit. But, employees who use Firefox or Chrome have taken the initiative to download a different browser. They tend to be more resourceful at work, looking for ways to do things better; and as a result, they stay in the job longer.

Questions and answers

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The choice of internet browser can potentially indicate an employee's approach towards their job. Employees who use default browsers like Explorer or Safari may be more likely to accept their job descriptions as fixed and quit when they are unhappy. On the other hand, employees who take the initiative to download a different browser, like Firefox or Chrome, may be more resourceful and look for ways to improve their work. This can lead to higher job satisfaction and longer job tenure.

Michael Housman's research found that customer service agents who used Firefox or Chrome (non-default browsers) stayed in their jobs 15% longer than those who used Explorer or Safari (default browsers). This suggests that employees who take the initiative to go beyond the default options tend to be more resourceful and stay longer in their jobs. This finding can be applied to other industries by encouraging employees to think beyond the default options and be more resourceful. Companies can foster this by creating an environment that encourages initiative and resourcefulness, such as providing opportunities for employees to make decisions, solve problems, and innovate.

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The hallmark of originality is this: don't accept the default option. Explore whether something better exists. The starting point for this exploration is curiosity—why does the default exist? All of the rules and systems in our world were created by people. Which means that people can change them.

Child prodigies and risk takers

We tend to assume that the people who change the world were either child prodigies from an early age, or bold risk takers who were not afraid to pursue their dreams. Both assumptions are wrong.

Child prodigies are rarely the ones who go on to change the world. They don't learn to be original and only a fraction of them go on to become revolutionary adult creators. They are hindered by achievement motivation—a phenomenal drive to succeed that ends up crowding out originality. Their fear of failure is so great that it prevents them from pursuing new ideas.

Questions and answers

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A company in a traditional sector like manufacturing or retail can apply the innovative approaches discussed in Originals by fostering a culture that encourages original thinking and innovation. This can be done by creating an environment where employees are not afraid to take risks and propose new ideas. Encouraging diversity of thought and perspectives can also lead to innovative solutions. Additionally, companies can mitigate risks associated with innovation by testing new ideas on a small scale before implementing them on a larger scale. Finally, persuading others to accept and support these new ideas is crucial for their successful implementation.

A startup can use the key topics or framework covered in Originals to grow by fostering an environment that encourages original thinking and innovation. This can be achieved by mitigating risks, persuading others with novel ideas, and changing the way the world is perceived. It's also important to not let the fear of failure hinder the pursuit of new ideas, as suggested in the book.

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Nor does originality require extreme risk taking. Studies of entrepreneurs show that those who were more cautious, staying in their day jobs while pursuing their new idea on the side, had 33% LOWER odds of failure than those who quit their day jobs to focus on the new venture full time. If you have some doubts about what you are doing, you are more likely to build a business venture that will last. Phil Knight, founder of Nike, started selling shoes out of the trunk of his car in 1964 but kept his day job as an accountant until 1969.

Questions and answers

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Doubt plays a significant role in building a lasting business venture. It encourages caution and careful decision-making. Entrepreneurs who harbor some doubts tend to take fewer risks, often maintaining their regular jobs while pursuing their new ideas on the side. This approach reduces the odds of failure and increases the likelihood of building a lasting business. For instance, Phil Knight, the founder of Nike, kept his day job as an accountant while starting his shoe business, which eventually became a lasting venture.

Maintaining a day job while pursuing a new business idea can actually lower the odds of failure. Studies have shown that entrepreneurs who were more cautious and stayed in their day jobs while working on their new idea on the side had 33% lower odds of failure than those who quit their jobs to focus on the new venture full time. This approach allows for a safety net and reduces financial risk, which can contribute to the longevity and success of the new business venture.

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The key here is having a balanced risk portfolio: having a sense of security in one realm gives us the freedom to be original in another. When we cover our bases, we are freed from the pressure to pursue a half-baked idea or launch an untested business. This does not mean always aiming for the safe middle ground—it means taking extreme risks in one arena and offsetting them with extreme caution in another. When Sara Blakely came up with the idea of footless pantyhose, she invested her entire savings and worked nights and weekends to build the prototype; but she kept her full-time day-job for two years while she worked to found her company—Spanx eventually made her the world's youngest self-made billionaire.

Questions and answers

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The idea of footless pantyhose led to the creation of a billion-dollar company, Spanx, through the dedication and balanced risk-taking of its founder, Sara Blakely. She came up with the innovative idea and invested her entire savings into building the prototype. However, she also maintained a sense of security by keeping her full-time day job for two years while she worked on founding her company during nights and weekends. This approach allowed her to take extreme risks in the development of her product while offsetting them with extreme caution in her personal financial stability. Her efforts eventually paid off, making her the world's youngest self-made billionaire.

Traditional businesses like retail or manufacturing can apply the concept of a balanced risk portfolio by taking calculated risks in one area while maintaining stability in others. For instance, they could innovate and experiment with new product lines or business models, while ensuring the core business operations remain stable and profitable. This approach allows businesses to explore new opportunities without jeopardizing their existing operations. It's about balancing the pursuit of new, potentially lucrative opportunities with the need to maintain a stable and reliable business operation.

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The most successful originals don't leap off a cliff without looking—they tiptoe to the edge, triple-check their parachutes, and make sure there's a safety net at the bottom, just in case.

Recognizing original ideas

The biggest barrier to originality is not idea generation, it's idea selection. Our companies, communities, and countries are full of novel ideas—the problem is a lack of people who excel at choosing the right novel ideas. So, what are the hurdles and best practices in idea selection?

Repeat

When we've come up with a new idea, we're too close to it to be able to evaluate it accurately. On the one hand, we tend to be over-confident when we evaluate ourselves. On the other hand, even geniuses have trouble recognizing when they have a hit on their hands.

So, if originals can't judge their own work, how do they maximize the odds of creating a masterpiece? Repetition! By producing a greater volume of work, the creative genius ends up with more variation and a higher chance of originality. Consider: Mozart composed more than 600 pieces of music before he died at the age of 35; Beethoven produced 650 over his lifetime; and Bach over a thousand. Each of these musicians created hundreds of pieces to generate a handful of masterworks. Einstein had 248 publications, only a handful of which (on general and special relativity) transformed physics.

Questions and answers

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The approach of producing a greater volume of work can be applied in real-world scenarios in several ways. Firstly, it can be applied in the field of arts, writing, and music where creating more pieces of work can lead to more variation and a higher chance of originality. Secondly, in the business world, companies can encourage their employees to come up with multiple ideas for a project, which increases the chances of finding a unique and effective solution. Lastly, in scientific research, conducting more experiments or studies can lead to more findings and breakthroughs. The key is to not be afraid of failure or criticism, but to use it as a stepping stone towards originality and creativity.

The concept of repetition contributes to the development of original and innovative ideas by increasing the volume of work produced. This increased volume leads to more variation and a higher chance of originality. For instance, renowned musicians and scientists like Mozart, Beethoven, Bach, and Einstein produced a large number of works, out of which only a handful were considered masterpieces or groundbreaking. Therefore, repetition, by fostering variation and volume, enhances the probability of creating original and innovative ideas.

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For many of us, our first ideas are often the most conventional, the closest to the default setting. It's only after we've ruled out the obvious choices that we have the freedom to think about more remote possibilities.

The story of Seinfeld

The first Seinfeld script was almost rejected by the studio executives. It was too unconventional. Focus groups didn't know what to make of it, focusing on what it didn't have: no sense of community like Cheers, no family dynamics like The Cosby Show, no relatability like ALF. Managers and test audiences are poor judges of creative ideas. They focus on reasons to reject something and stick close to the default setting. The best judges are our peers and colleagues—people with no particular investment in our ideas who are more open to seeing the potential in something unusual.

Questions and answers

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The book 'Originals' is highly relevant to contemporary issues and debates in the field of innovation and creativity. It explores how original thinkers and innovators across time developed their unique ideas, mitigated risks, and persuaded others, thereby changing the way we perceive the world. The book provides insights into the challenges faced by innovators, such as the rejection of unconventional ideas by traditional gatekeepers. It also highlights the importance of peer feedback in recognizing the potential of innovative ideas. These themes are central to current discussions about fostering creativity and innovation in various fields.

The book 'Originals' has influenced corporate strategies and business models in several ways. Firstly, it encourages organizations to embrace unconventional ideas, as they can lead to innovation and change. Secondly, it emphasizes the importance of mitigating risks when implementing new ideas. Thirdly, it highlights the need for persuading others to accept and support these ideas. Lastly, it suggests that peers and colleagues, rather than managers or test audiences, are the best judges of creative ideas. These insights can help businesses to foster a culture of innovation, manage risks effectively, and make better decisions.

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The one man who made Seinfeld happen, Rick Ludwin, didn't even work in NBC's comedy department—which may have been his greatest advantage. He had a background in producing segments for variety shows and comedies, so he had plenty of expertise in humor, but he wasn't locked into the comedy-show default mindset. Once the show was accepted, he bet on writers who had the same insider-outsider status. Most came from late-night TV, so they had no problem with offbeat ideas.

Questions and answers

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A retail company can apply the innovative approaches discussed in the book "Originals" by embracing the insider-outsider mindset. This involves hiring individuals who have industry experience but are not locked into the traditional retail mindset. These individuals can bring fresh, offbeat ideas to the table. The company can also encourage risk-taking and original thinking among its employees. This can lead to the development of novel ideas and strategies that can change the way the company operates and how customers perceive it.

The book "Originals" provides several key takeaways for entrepreneurs and managers. Firstly, it emphasizes the importance of embracing originality and innovation, even if it goes against the norm. Secondly, it highlights the value of mitigating risks and persuading others to support your ideas. Lastly, it encourages leaders to foster a culture that welcomes diverse perspectives and unconventional ideas. These insights can be actioned by encouraging creativity and innovation within teams, taking calculated risks, and promoting a culture of open dialogue and acceptance of different ideas.

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Rick backed Seinfeld in particular because he watched Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David revise their concept and saw how they worked to get the execution right.

Creativity

Researchers at Michigan State University found that Nobel prize winning scientists have a much higher engagement with the arts than ordinary scientists. A scientist who plays a musical instrument is twice as likely to win a Nobel relative to other scientists; someone who draws or paints is seven times as likely to win; a creative writer is 12 times more likely to win; and an amateur actor or dancer is an astonishing 22 times more likely to win a Nobel than other scientists.

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The correlation between artistic pursuits and scientific achievement can be applied in traditional sectors like manufacturing or retail by fostering a culture of creativity and innovation. Encouraging employees to engage in artistic pursuits can stimulate their creative thinking, which can lead to innovative solutions and improvements in the workplace. For instance, a manufacturer might encourage workers to think creatively about how to improve production processes, or a retailer might encourage employees to come up with novel marketing strategies. This approach can lead to increased productivity, improved problem-solving, and a more engaged and motivated workforce.

Creative writing plays a significant role in the development of novel ideas among scientists. It fosters creativity, encourages out-of-the-box thinking, and helps in the conceptualization of new theories and ideas. It also enhances communication skills, which is crucial for scientists to effectively convey their ideas and findings. As per a study at Michigan State University, a creative writer is 12 times more likely to win a Nobel prize than other scientists, indicating the importance of creative writing in scientific innovation.

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Those interested in the arts—entrepreneurs, inventors, eminent scientists—have greater curiosity and aptitude. They have a personality trait called 'openness,' a tendency to seek out novelty and variety. It's the trait that allowed Galileo to recognize that the patterns of light and dark that he could see on the surface of the moon through his telescope were actually mountains. Other astronomers using the weak telescopes in those days lacked Galileo's background in painting, particularly his training in chiaroscuro, which focuses on representations of light and shade.

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Galileo's background in painting, particularly his training in chiaroscuro, which focuses on representations of light and shade, played a significant role in his astronomical discoveries. This training allowed him to recognize the patterns of light and dark that he could see on the surface of the moon through his telescope as mountains. Other astronomers using the weak telescopes in those days lacked this background, which gave Galileo an edge in his observations and discoveries.

The personality trait 'openness' significantly contributes to the success of entrepreneurs and inventors. This trait is characterized by a tendency to seek out novelty and variety, which fuels curiosity and innovation. Open individuals are more likely to explore new ideas, embrace unconventional perspectives, and challenge the status quo. This mindset allows them to recognize unique opportunities, devise innovative solutions, and adapt to changing circumstances, all of which are crucial for entrepreneurial and inventive success.

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Speaking the truth

How can we reduce the risks of speaking up, and gain the potential benefits of doing so?

Challenging the CIA

In the early 1990s a young CIA analyst came back from a three-year assignment in Europe with a radical idea: instead of taking days or even weeks to produce paper reports, why not publish findings instantly and share them over the intelligence community's classified internet? Carmen Medina's ground-breaking idea was quickly shot down, slammed for being a security risk. Less than a decade after her initial failure, Medina was central to the creation of Intellipedia, an internal Wikipedia that has become a key resource for intelligence agencies. How did she do it?

Questions and answers

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Carmen Medina's idea of instant publication and sharing of findings over a secure network has significant potential for implementation in other real-world scenarios. This concept can be applied in various sectors such as healthcare, finance, and education where real-time sharing of information is crucial. For instance, in healthcare, instant access to patient data can improve diagnosis and treatment. In finance, real-time data can aid in making timely investment decisions. In education, it can facilitate collaborative learning and research. However, the implementation would require robust security measures to protect sensitive information.

Carmen Medina's idea has had a significant influence on the strategies of intelligence agencies. She proposed the concept of publishing findings instantly and sharing them over the intelligence community's classified internet. Although initially rejected due to security concerns, her idea eventually led to the creation of Intellipedia, an internal Wikipedia for intelligence agencies. This has become a key resource for these agencies, allowing for quicker dissemination and sharing of information, thus improving efficiency and collaboration.

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After years overseas Medina has little status back in the U.S. She had not been able to prove herself to her colleagues, so they did not give her ideas any credence. If you want to influence others, you first have to earn their respect. Medina was trying to exercise power—getting a new idea accepted—without having the status to back it up.

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The concept of 'exercising power without status' as explained in the book 'Originals' refers to the ability to influence others and get your ideas accepted without having a high status or rank. This can be challenging as people often give more credence to ideas coming from those in positions of authority or with a proven track record. However, it's not impossible. It requires building respect and trust, demonstrating the value of your ideas, and persuading others to see things from your perspective. It's about leveraging your personal influence, rather than relying on a formal position of power.

The book 'Originals' has influenced corporate strategies in several ways. It has encouraged companies to value and foster original thinking and innovation. It has highlighted the importance of mitigating risks while pursuing novel ideas. The book has also emphasized the need for persuading others effectively to accept and implement new ideas. Furthermore, it has underscored the significance of earning respect and establishing credibility in order to influence others and get new ideas accepted.

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Frustrated by her initial failure, Medina moved into a staff position and gradually worked her way into a more senior role in the area of security. When she presented her idea again, she was able to do so from a position of respect that she had earned by working within the system. She was able to present herself as being for something, as part of her mission to protect security, rather than just against the old ways of doing things.

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The key takeaways from the book 'Originals' that entrepreneurs can apply are:

1. Embrace originality: The book encourages entrepreneurs to embrace their unique ideas and not be afraid to go against the norm.

2. Mitigate risks: Entrepreneurs should not just take risks blindly. They should evaluate the potential outcomes and take calculated risks.

3. Persuade others: Entrepreneurs need to effectively communicate their ideas and persuade others to believe in them. This can be achieved by building credibility and demonstrating the value of their ideas.

4. Be resilient: The book highlights the importance of resilience in the face of failure. Entrepreneurs should learn from their failures and use them as stepping stones to success.

Startups can use Medina's approach by first integrating themselves within the existing system or industry. This allows them to understand the workings, norms, and expectations of the industry. Once they have earned respect and credibility within the system, they can then start to introduce their innovative ideas. This approach not only gives their ideas a better chance of being accepted, but also allows them to present their innovations as solutions or improvements to existing processes, rather than as disruptions or threats.

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We are more comfortable with things that we are familiar with—ideas, sounds, faces, brands, etc. Medina realized this; so, when she became the deputy director of intelligence at the CIA she got analysts familiar with the idea of sharing information online by starting a blog on the classified intranet. Gradually, she added presentations and other items that got intelligence analysts used to the idea of sharing information openly.

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Medina's approach at the CIA was centered around fostering a culture of open information sharing. She started a blog on the classified intranet to get analysts accustomed to the idea of sharing information online. This was a strategic move to break down barriers and encourage collaboration. The broader implications for organizations are significant. This approach can lead to increased transparency, improved decision-making, and a more innovative and adaptive organization. However, it also requires a shift in mindset and potentially a change in organizational structure and processes.

A small business can use Medina's method of gradual introduction to implement new practices and grow by first introducing the new practices in a familiar format. This could be through a blog, newsletter, or internal communication platform. The key is to start small and gradually introduce more complex aspects of the new practices. This allows employees to become comfortable with the new practices over time, reducing resistance and increasing the likelihood of successful implementation. It's also important to provide support and training throughout this process to ensure everyone understands and can effectively use the new practices.

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Speak up or leave?

When a situation isn't working out for you, you have four choices in how to respond: exit, meaning remove yourself from the situation; voice, or actively try to change the situation; persistence, meaning stick with it; or, neglect, which entails staying put but reducing your effort.

If you feel like you're stuck with the status quo, with no control over the situation, you may opt for neglect, because you're not really committed to trying to effect change; but, if you believe it is worth trying to make a difference, you'll opt for persistence. If you are convinced you can make a difference, but you're not really committed to the organization, you'll leave. The only time when you can and should speak up is when you believe your actions matter and you care deeply about trying to make a change.

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A small business can apply the concepts of commitment and persistence from the book Originals to effect change and grow by first believing in the potential of their actions to make a difference. This belief will fuel their commitment to their business and the changes they want to implement. Persistence comes into play when they encounter obstacles or resistance to these changes. Instead of giving up or settling for the status quo, they should persist in their efforts, continually seeking innovative solutions and strategies to overcome these challenges and achieve their goals. It's also important for them to care deeply about their business and the changes they're trying to make, as this will motivate them to keep going even when things get tough.

The book "Originals" has significantly influenced corporate strategies by encouraging a culture of innovation and original thinking. It has taught organizations to value non-conformity and to embrace novel ideas. The book suggests that original thinkers are the ones who drive changes in the world, thus companies are now more open to taking risks and investing in new ideas. It has also highlighted the importance of dissent in fostering innovation, leading to a shift in corporate culture where differing opinions are welcomed and encouraged.

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When you do choose to speak up, your audience and your timing are both critical. It's tempting to go for a supportive audience that you know will smile and nod, but a critical one can push you to do better. Medina ended up with a manager who was tough, but his priority was strengthening the CIA. This gave her the impetus to promote her ideas on information sharing.

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The book 'Originals' presents several innovative ideas. One of them is the concept of 'vuja de', which is the opposite of 'deja vu'. It's about looking at familiar situations with a fresh perspective. Another surprising idea is that procrastination can actually fuel creativity by allowing more time for idea incubation. The book also challenges the conventional wisdom that risk-taking is essential for innovation, arguing that successful originals are often risk-averse and take calculated steps. Lastly, it emphasizes the importance of dissent and diversity in fostering original thinking.

Yes, there are several examples of companies that have successfully implemented the practice of choosing a critical audience and right timing for idea promotion. One such example is Apple Inc. under the leadership of Steve Jobs. Jobs was known for presenting his innovative ideas to critical audiences, including his own team and potential investors, at the right time. This approach helped Apple to refine its products and strategies, ultimately leading to its success. Another example is SpaceX, led by Elon Musk. Musk has often presented his ambitious ideas to critical audiences, including the scientific community and potential investors, at key moments. This has helped SpaceX to gain valuable feedback and build momentum for its projects.

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The top levels of any hierarchy are expected to be different; the bottom levels tend to feel they have nothing to lose if they embrace originality. The hardest level to convince of the need for change are the middle-management levels, where there are strong incentives to choose the tried-and-true default option over the untested new idea. Medina learned to voice her ideas upward, to the top, and downward, to the lower ranks, rather than focus on pitching her ideas to middle managers.

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In the book 'Originals', the concept of voicing ideas to different levels of hierarchy is explained as a strategic approach to bring about change. The top levels of hierarchy are usually more open to originality as they are expected to bring about change and innovation. The lower levels also tend to be more receptive as they have less to lose. However, the middle-management levels are often the hardest to convince due to their preference for tried-and-true methods over untested new ideas. Therefore, it's suggested to voice ideas upward to the top and downward to the lower ranks, rather than focusing on pitching ideas to middle managers.

The book "Originals" has significantly influenced corporate strategies and business models by encouraging innovation and original thinking. It emphasizes the importance of developing novel ideas, mitigating risks, and persuading others. The book suggests that the top levels of any hierarchy should embrace originality as they are expected to be different. It also encourages voicing ideas upward, to the top, and downward, to the lower ranks, rather than focusing on pitching ideas to middle managers. This approach can lead to a more innovative and risk-tolerant corporate culture, potentially leading to the development of groundbreaking strategies and business models.

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And, of course, speaking out is harder for women and minorities. A woman who speaks up can be labelled as aggressive, not innovative. For women and minorities—and especially for women who are minorities—it is particularly important to earn status before exercising power.

As for exiting, it doesn't change the status at the organization you leave, but it may empower you personally to move forward. Exit was not an option for Medina; she believed passionately in the purpose of her organization and in the importance of her idea. For others, however, exit may be the only path to originality.

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The concept of 'exit' in the book 'Originals' refers to the act of leaving a certain situation or organization. This can empower individuals to move forward and achieve originality in their ideas by providing them with a fresh perspective and the freedom to explore new avenues. When one is no longer bound by the constraints of a particular setting, they have the opportunity to think more creatively and independently. This can lead to the development of original ideas that may not have been possible within the previous context.

The ideas and strategies presented in the book Originals can be beneficial in various real-world scenarios. For instance, in business, these strategies can help in fostering innovation and original thinking, leading to the development of unique products or services. In education, they can be used to encourage students to think outside the box and develop novel solutions to problems. In social activism, these ideas can help individuals or groups to effectively persuade others and bring about social change. Moreover, these strategies can also be useful for individuals seeking personal growth and development, as they encourage risk-taking and original thinking.

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The Sarick effect

Named after social scientist Leslie Sarick, this is the approach of selling your idea by emphasizing all the things that are wrong with it. This sounds counter-intuitive: shouldn't you emphasize the strengths and minimize the weaknesses? In fact, when you are trying to persuade people who have more power than you, like managers and investors, there are four good reasons to accentuate the flaws in your ideas.

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The Leslie Sarick's approach can be beneficial for startups and entrepreneurs in several ways. Firstly, it shows honesty and transparency, which can build trust with potential investors or partners. Secondly, it demonstrates that the entrepreneur is aware of the challenges ahead and is prepared to tackle them. Thirdly, it opens up opportunities for feedback and suggestions on how to improve the idea or plan. Lastly, it can help to set realistic expectations, reducing the risk of disappointment or failure.

The book does not provide specific details on the four reasons to accentuate the flaws in your ideas when persuading people with more power. However, generally, this approach can be beneficial because: 1) It shows you have thoroughly analyzed your idea and are aware of its limitations. 2) It demonstrates honesty and transparency, which can build trust. 3) It invites constructive feedback and suggestions for improvement. 4) It prepares you for potential objections, allowing you to address them proactively.

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  1. Disarm the audience – Instead of saying, "You need to do this!" Medina had greater success in her second attempt to pitch her idea by saying, "Maybe I'm wrong, but perhaps we should try..."
  2. You look smart – By pointing out what you know the problems are, you show that you are not overly-confident in your ideas; you are able to shrewdly judge the negatives as well as the positives.
  3. You look trustworthy – Describing the problems makes you come across as honest and modest. Investors are already skeptical; telling them up front what the negatives might be makes them more inclined to trust you when you go on to describe the positives.
  4. Favorable assessment – When you lay out the negative issues up front, your manager or investor is less inclined to try to think up their own ideas about what is wrong.

Rush ahead—or wait??

When is the best time to take original action? We assume that the early bird catches the worm, but research suggests that procrastination may be your most effective tool. Procrastination may be the enemy of productivity, particularly if someone isn't all that motivated to get something done; but it is certainly a resource for creativity.

Questions and answers

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The ideas presented in the book 'Originals' have significant potential to be implemented in real-world scenarios. The book provides insights into how original thinkers develop their novel ideas, mitigate risks, and persuade others. These concepts can be applied in various fields such as business, education, and personal development. For instance, the idea of using procrastination as a tool for creativity can be implemented in project management and idea generation processes. However, the effectiveness of these ideas would depend on the specific context and individual's ability to adapt and apply these concepts.

Procrastination can be a double-edged sword in a real-world business scenario. On one hand, it can foster creativity by allowing more time for ideas to incubate and evolve. This can lead to innovative solutions and original thinking. On the other hand, procrastination can lead to missed deadlines, increased stress, and reduced productivity. It's important to strike a balance. Procrastination should not be used as an excuse for poor time management. Instead, it can be used strategically, allowing time for reflection and idea generation, while still meeting business objectives.

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Leonardo da Vinci was a classic creative procrastinator. He started the Mona Lisa in 1503, but didn't finish it until 1519, working on it on and off while also doing other projects. These other distractions were vital to his originality.

I have a dream

In August 1963 Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered one of the most memorable speeches of the modern era at the March for Jobs and Freedom in Washington, D.C. He had been asked to speak at the event months earlier—yet he did not begin to write out his speech until after 10:00 P.M. the night before and worked on it through the night. King had been thinking about his speech for weeks, getting input from close advisors about tone and content, but waited until the last hours before finalizing what he would say.

Questions and answers

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A traditional sector company can apply risk mitigation and persuasion techniques used by original thinkers like Martin Luther King, Jr. by first, understanding the core values and beliefs of their stakeholders. This involves active listening and empathy. Secondly, they can articulate a compelling vision or goal that aligns with these values, just as King did with his 'I Have a Dream' speech. Thirdly, they can mitigate risk by planning thoroughly and considering potential challenges and oppositions, as King did by seeking advice and input from his close advisors. Lastly, they can use persuasive communication and storytelling to rally support and inspire action.

While it's not common for companies to rely on last-minute preparation strategies, there are instances where this approach has been successful. For example, tech companies like Google and Facebook are known for their "hackathons," where developers work intensively on software projects for a short period of time. This can lead to innovative solutions and products. Similarly, startups often pivot at the last minute, changing their business model based on new insights or market conditions. However, it's important to note that these strategies involve significant risk and require a high level of adaptability.

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And, by procrastinating on the final product, King was also open to improvisation. The famous "I have a dream" section was not actually part of the written speech—he improvised the whole thing, in front of a live crowd of 250,000 and with millions more watching on TV, after gospel singer Mahalia Jackson shouted out, during his speech, "Tell 'em about the dream, Martin!"

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Martin Luther King's improvisation techniques, as described in the book Originals, can be applied in today's business environment in several ways. Firstly, being open to improvisation allows for flexibility and adaptability, which are crucial in a rapidly changing business landscape. Secondly, improvisation can lead to spontaneous and innovative ideas that may not have been conceived through rigid planning. Lastly, King's ability to captivate his audience through his improvised "I have a dream" speech demonstrates the power of effective communication, a skill that is invaluable in any business setting.

The book "Originals" has influenced corporate strategies by encouraging a culture of innovation and original thinking. It highlights the importance of developing novel ideas, mitigating risks, and persuading others. This has led corporations to foster environments where employees are encouraged to think outside the box and challenge the status quo. The book also emphasizes the value of improvisation and being open to change, which are key elements in strategic planning and execution.

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If we plan something too far in advance, we tend to stick to the structure we've created. And, once we decide that a thing is completed, we tend to stop thinking about it. By mulling over his speech without finalizing it, King left himself open to responding in the moment, ad-libbing parts of his speech.

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A manufacturing company can apply the innovative approaches discussed in Originals by fostering a culture of innovation and original thinking. This could involve encouraging employees to challenge the status quo, promoting diversity of thought, and being open to new ideas. The company could also implement strategies to mitigate risks associated with innovation, such as piloting new ideas on a small scale before full implementation. Additionally, the company could invest in training and development programs to equip employees with the skills needed to think creatively and innovate.

Potential obstacles companies might face when applying the concept of open-ended planning include lack of structure, difficulty in measuring progress, and potential for procrastination or lack of completion. To overcome these, companies could establish clear goals and milestones, regularly review and adjust plans, and foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

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King also had a wealth of material to draw upon: he had been delivering variations on this speech and its themes for over a year. Come the day, he had plenty of passages, ideas, and oratorical fragments to draw upon.

Pioneers and settlers

American culture believes strongly in the advantages of being a first mover, a pioneer who is the first to move into a new territory or market. However, pioneers often end up with a lower chance of survival—they tend to overstep and scale too fast. Settlers, on the other hand, bide their time until they're ready to introduce something new. They focus on providing superior quality rather than trying to figure out what to offer in the first place.

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The case study in "Originals" suggests that being a first mover in a new market can be both advantageous and disadvantageous. On one hand, first movers can establish themselves as pioneers and leaders in the market, gaining a competitive edge. On the other hand, they often face higher risks as they may scale too quickly and overstep, leading to a lower chance of survival. They may also struggle with figuring out what to offer in the first place. In contrast, settlers, who enter the market later, can focus on providing superior quality and have the advantage of learning from the mistakes of the pioneers.

The book 'Originals' teaches several lessons about mitigating risks and persuading others in the business environment. One key lesson is the advantage of being a settler over a pioneer. Pioneers often rush into new territories or markets, which can lead to overstepping and scaling too fast. This can increase their risk of failure. Settlers, however, wait until they're ready to introduce something new, focusing on providing superior quality rather than trying to figure out what to offer. This approach can mitigate risks and increase the chances of success. Another lesson is the importance of developing novel ideas and changing the way we see the world, which can help in persuading others.

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The kinds of people who are late movers—settlers—may also be better suited to succeed. They are more risk averse, waiting for the right opportunity and balancing their risk portfolios. Pioneers are more likely to make impulsive decisions.

Settlers are also more likely to improve upon competitors' technology and make something better. Pioneers tend to get stuck in their early offerings whereas settlers can observe market changes and adjust. Sometimes, being first pays off—when patented technology is involved or there are strong network effects. But in an unknown or uncertain market, there are usually disadvantages to being a pioneer.

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A small business can use the concept of settlers and pioneers to grow by understanding their unique roles and benefits. Pioneers are the first to venture into new markets, they innovate and create new products or services. However, they may get stuck in their early offerings. On the other hand, settlers, while not the first, improve upon existing technologies or ideas, making them better. They can observe market changes and adjust accordingly. In an uncertain market, being a settler can be advantageous as they can learn from the mistakes of the pioneers and adapt their strategies accordingly.

Potential obstacles companies might face when applying the concept of settlers and pioneers include the risk of pioneers getting stuck in their early offerings and not adapting to market changes. Settlers, on the other hand, might face the challenge of improving upon competitors' technology. To overcome these obstacles, pioneers should be open to innovation and change, not getting too attached to their initial offerings. They should observe market trends and be ready to adjust their products or services accordingly. Settlers, meanwhile, need to invest in research and development to innovate and improve upon existing technologies.

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There are parallels here with Carmen Medina's story at the CIA. When she first voiced her idea in the early 1990s, the agency was not ready. But after a few years, electronic communication had become more secure and more familiar. The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 were the final push needed to convince people that the costs of failing to share information were too high to ignore.

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Carmen Medina's case at the CIA is a prime example of how the adoption of innovative ideas can be influenced by external factors and timing. In the early 1990s, her idea for better information sharing was initially rejected due to security concerns and unfamiliarity with electronic communication. However, as technology advanced and the need for information sharing became more apparent, especially after the 9/11 attacks, her idea was finally accepted. This case highlights the importance of persistence in innovation and the role of external events in accelerating organizational change. It also underscores the potential costs of failing to adapt and share information in a timely manner.

The lessons from Carmen Medina's story at the CIA can be applied in today's business environment in several ways. Firstly, it highlights the importance of persistence in pushing for innovative ideas, even when they are initially rejected. Secondly, it underscores the need for organizations to adapt to technological advancements, such as secure electronic communication. Lastly, it emphasizes the high costs of failing to share information, which can be mitigated through improved communication and collaboration.

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Youth vs. age

For every young genius who peaks early, there are plenty of old masters who peaked later in life. Orson Welles made Citizen Kane when he was just 25; Alfred Hitchcock's most popular movies came decades into his career (he was 61 when he made Psycho). The age difference comes down to conceptual innovators versus experimental innovators.

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The lessons from 'Originals' can be applied in today's rapidly changing business environment by encouraging innovation and original thinking. It's important to develop novel ideas, mitigate risks, and persuade others. This can lead to a change in the way we see the world. It's also crucial to understand that success can come at any age, as highlighted by the examples of Orson Welles and Alfred Hitchcock. This suggests that businesses should value both young and experienced employees and encourage them to innovate.

The book 'Originals' contributes to contemporary debates on innovation and original thinking by providing insights into how innovators and original thinkers across time developed their novel ideas, mitigated risks, persuaded others, and changed the way we all see the world. It explores the difference between conceptual innovators who peak early and experimental innovators who peak later in life, offering a fresh perspective on the innovation process.

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Conceptual innovators formulate a big idea and set out to execute. They are sprinters who do their best work when they are young. But, conceptual innovators can also become less original once they get entrenched in a certain way of solving problems.

Experimental innovators solve problems through trial and error, learning as they go. They are marathoners who do their best work when they are older. Experimental innovators accumulate knowledge and skills, creating a more sustainable source of originality. Leonardo da Vinci was in his early fifties when he started work on the Mona Lisa. While Martin Luther King, Jr. was only 34 when he gave his "I have a dream" speech, he had been speaking publicly about civil rights for two decades, effectively gaining the insight and wisdom of an 'old master' in the process.

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Startups can apply the concept of experimental innovation by adopting a trial and error approach to problem-solving. This involves testing different solutions, learning from the outcomes, and refining their strategies based on what works and what doesn't. This approach allows startups to accumulate knowledge and skills over time, creating a sustainable source of originality and innovation. It's about being persistent, learning from failures, and continuously improving. This method can lead to breakthroughs that can help the startup grow and succeed.

Experimental innovators are characterized by their approach of solving problems through trial and error, and learning as they progress. They are often likened to marathoners, doing their best work later in life as they accumulate knowledge and skills over time. This creates a sustainable source of originality. Leonardo da Vinci, for instance, began work on the Mona Lisa in his early fifties, demonstrating the value of accumulated experience. Similarly, Martin Luther King, Jr., despite being only 34 when he delivered his iconic 'I have a dream' speech, had been speaking publicly about civil rights for two decades. This extensive experience effectively gave him the insight and wisdom of an 'old master', contributing to his originality and impact.

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Creating coalitions

Originals form alliances to advance their goals, and work to overcome the barriers that prevent coalitions from succeeding. Most efforts to change the status quo involve a minority challenging a majority. Coalitions are a powerful part of this effort; but they are also inherently unstable and depend on relationships among individual members.

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Small businesses can use the concept of forming coalitions to grow by partnering with other businesses or individuals to achieve common goals. This can help in sharing resources, expanding market reach, and gaining new insights. However, forming coalitions can be challenging as they are inherently unstable and depend on relationships among individual members. Therefore, it's crucial to build strong, trustworthy relationships and ensure all parties involved share the same vision and objectives.

Yes, there are several examples of companies that have successfully formed alliances to challenge the status quo. One notable example is the alliance between Microsoft and IBM in the 1980s. This alliance challenged the then-dominant Apple's status quo in the personal computer market. Another example is the alliance of Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi, which has been challenging the status quo in the automobile industry by focusing on electric and autonomous vehicles. These alliances have been successful in bringing about significant changes in their respective industries.

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Stone, Anthony, and Stanton

Lucy Stone was an early and influential leader in the women's rights movement, organizing a convention in 1851 that called for women to have the right to vote and own property. Her speeches inspired Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and for years the three collaborated on the cause of women's suffrage. However, they had begun to differ on tactics and in 1866 Anthony and Stanton partnered with a known racist, George Francis Train, who supported white women's suffrage as a way to curb the influence of African Americans. Anthony and Stanton then opposed the Fifteenth Amendment that proposed giving African American men the right to vote.

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Lucy Stone faced several obstacles in her fight for women's rights. One of the main challenges was the societal norms and prejudices of the time, which were heavily biased against women's rights. Additionally, she faced disagreements within the women's rights movement itself, as seen in her differing tactics with Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Despite these challenges, Stone remained steadfast in her cause. She organized conventions, delivered inspiring speeches, and continued to advocate for women's rights to vote and own property. Her perseverance and dedication played a significant role in advancing the women's rights movement.

The women's suffrage movement has significantly influenced the way we see the world today. It has played a crucial role in advancing gender equality, promoting democratic values, and shaping societal norms. The movement challenged the traditional gender roles and paved the way for women's active participation in political, economic, and social spheres. It has also set a precedent for other social justice movements, inspiring them to fight for their rights and equality. Furthermore, the movement has contributed to the development of laws and policies that protect women's rights and interests.

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Stone was a supporter of the abolitionist cause and spoke in favor of a continued alliance with black activists. This prompted Anthony and Stanton to split with Stone in 1869, forming a rival suffrage organization.

Ultimately, the two major wings of the suffrage movement did reunite—but only after the three dominant women had stepped away from leadership positions. The lesson here is that to build coalitions across conflict lines you don't send in the hawks to negotiate, you send the doves.

Both organizations also needed new allies, which they found in the form of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU), a group focused on curbing alcoholism. Rising WCTU leader Frances Willard became a strong voice in favor of women's suffrage, casting the vote as a way for women to protect their families from "the tyranny of drink." She used a lot of Biblical references in her speeches, which made audiences comfortable with the radical idea of votes for women. She was the quintessential tempered radical, presenting her values (the vote) as a way for an audience to pursue their own values (temperance).

Questions and answers

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The concept of a 'tempered radical' can be applied in contemporary debates and issues by presenting radical ideas in a way that aligns with the values of the audience. This involves framing the radical idea as a solution to a problem that the audience cares about, or as a way to achieve a goal that the audience values. This approach can make the radical idea more palatable and increase its chances of being accepted. For example, in debates about climate change, a tempered radical might present radical environmental policies as a way to ensure the health and safety of our children and grandchildren, rather than focusing solely on the need to reduce carbon emissions.

The alliance between suffrage organizations and the Woman's Christian Temperance Union (WCTU) significantly changed societal perspectives. The WCTU, primarily focused on curbing alcoholism, became a strong advocate for women's suffrage under the leadership of Frances Willard. Willard framed the vote as a means for women to protect their families from the detrimental effects of alcohol, using biblical references to make audiences comfortable with the radical idea of votes for women. This strategic alliance not only advanced the cause of women's suffrage but also reshaped societal norms and expectations, thereby changing the way we see the world.

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Tempered radicals

In 2011 college senior Meredith Perry came up with the idea of wirelessly charging devices using ultrasound. Her professors and various ultrasonic engineers all said it couldn't be done. This is the classic case of an original trying to overcome the skepticism of potential key stakeholders.

Eventually Perry stopped telling the experts what she was trying to create—a transducer to send power over the air— and instead asked for interim steps. She persuaded acoustics experts to design a transmitter, others to design a receiver, and an electrical engineer to build the electronics. She tempered the radicalism of her idea by obscuring its most extreme feature.

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1. Encourage diversity of thought: The book emphasizes the importance of diverse perspectives in fostering innovation. Encourage your team to think differently and challenge the status quo.

2. Mitigate risks: Original thinkers often take calculated risks. As a manager, you can help your team understand the potential risks and rewards of their ideas, and guide them in making informed decisions.

3. Persuade through incremental steps: As illustrated in the book, Perry persuaded experts to work on different parts of a project, thereby making a radical idea seem less daunting. This approach can be effective in managing a team of experts.

4. Foster a culture of openness: The book suggests that original ideas often come from an environment where individuals feel free to express their thoughts without fear of criticism or rejection.

Perry mitigated the risks associated with her radical idea of a transducer to send power over the air by breaking down the project into smaller, less radical parts and seeking expert help for each part. She persuaded acoustics experts to design a transmitter, others to design a receiver, and an electrical engineer to build the electronics. By doing so, she was able to obscure the most extreme feature of her idea, thus tempering its radicalism.

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The power of familiarity

In the early 1990s a group of writers at Disney were trying to create something new, an animated movie based on an original concept (rather than well-known fairy tales such as Cinderella or Snow White). They were struggling with the idea of Bambi but in Africa with lions—Disney executives didn't understand the idea until producer Maureen Donley said, "This is Hamlet!"

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A startup can use the key topics or framework covered in the Originals to develop novel ideas and persuade others by first understanding and embracing the concept of originality. This involves generating unique ideas that go against the grain and challenge the status quo. The startup can then mitigate risks associated with these novel ideas by conducting thorough market research, testing the ideas on a small scale, and iterating based on feedback. To persuade others, the startup can use storytelling techniques to create a compelling narrative around their ideas, as demonstrated by the Disney writers in the Originals. They can also build credibility and trust by demonstrating their commitment and passion for their ideas.

The book 'Originals' discusses the relevance of its themes to contemporary issues and debates in the field of innovation by showcasing how original thinkers and innovators across time developed their novel ideas, mitigated risks, persuaded others, and changed the way we all see the world. It provides real-life examples, such as the creation of a unique animated movie at Disney based on an original concept, demonstrating how innovative thinking can lead to groundbreaking results. The book emphasizes the importance of originality and innovation in today's rapidly changing world.

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Suddenly everyone in the room understood where the movie was coming from. The Lion King went on to be the highest grossing film of 1994, winning two Oscars and a Golden Globe. Had the writers started with Hamlet they would have ended up with an animated Shakespeare knockoff. Instead, they started with a novel template then came up with a familiar concept that gave everyone a single point of reference.

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The lessons from "Originals" can be applied in today's business environment in several ways. Firstly, it encourages innovators to develop novel ideas, not just replicate what's already out there. This can lead to breakthroughs and significant advancements. Secondly, it emphasizes the importance of mitigating risks. This involves careful planning and strategizing, which are crucial in any business. Lastly, it highlights the power of persuasion. Convincing others to believe in your ideas is a key part of achieving success.

A small business can use the concept of starting with a novel template" to grow by first developing a unique, innovative idea or approach that differentiates them from competitors. This could be a new product, service, or business model. Once they have this novel template", they can then find ways to make it familiar and relatable to their target audience, much like how the writers of The Lion King started with a unique concept and then tied it to the familiar story of Hamlet. This approach can help the business stand out in the market, attract customers, and ultimately drive growth.

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Nurturing originals

Why do some baseball players steal more bases than others? One study revealed a surprising fact: birth order is a big determining factor. Younger brothers are 10.6 times more likely to attempt to steal base than their older siblings. It comes down to a propensity to take risks.

Firstborns vs. laterborns

In the realm of sports there are marked differences between firstborns and those born later in the family hierarchy. Laterborns are more likely to take part in risky, high-injury sports like rugby, ice hockey, and gymnastics; firstborns tend to go for safer options like golf, track, and crew. The same pattern holds in science and politics. Laterborns are readier to embrace radical new ideas, even later in their own lives.

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Yes, the pattern of firstborns choosing safer options and laterborns going for riskier ones can be seen in other areas of life as well. This pattern is not just limited to sports, but also extends to fields like science and politics. Laterborns are often more open to embracing radical new ideas, even later in their lives. However, it's important to note that these are general trends and individual experiences can vary.

Some examples of laterborns who have embraced radical new ideas in science and politics include Albert Einstein, a second-born child who revolutionized physics with his theory of relativity, and Karl Marx, the youngest of nine children, who introduced radical political ideas that led to the development of communism. In the realm of science, Charles Darwin, a fifth-born, proposed the groundbreaking theory of evolution. In politics, Mahatma Gandhi, the youngest of four children, introduced the radical concept of nonviolent resistance.

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Experts have long touted the advantage of being the firstborn—they are more likely to win Nobel prizes, get elected to Congress, or become CEO of a major corporation. On the other hand, laterborns are more likely to switch jobs sooner and more often and so rise faster in the salary rankings. Hundreds of studies have reached the same conclusion: firstborns tend to be more dominant, conscientious, and ambitious; laterborns tend to be more open to taking risks and embracing original ideas.

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The implications of these studies suggest that birth order can significantly influence an individual's personality traits and career paths. Firstborns, being more dominant, conscientious, and ambitious, may be more likely to pursue leadership roles, excel in academics, and achieve high-ranking positions in their careers. They may also be more risk-averse and prefer stability. On the other hand, laterborns, being more open to taking risks and embracing original ideas, may be more likely to explore unconventional career paths, be more creative, and adapt to changes more readily. However, it's important to note that these are general trends and individual experiences can vary greatly.

The innovators and original thinkers discussed in the book 'Originals' mitigated risks by being open to taking risks and embracing original ideas. They were not afraid to switch jobs sooner and more often, which allowed them to rise faster in the salary rankings. They persuaded others by being ambitious and dominant, traits that are often associated with leadership. Their conscientiousness also played a role in persuading others as it showed their commitment and dedication to their novel ideas.

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Laterborns quickly learn to stand out by being different; they also tend to face less strict discipline from their parents than firstborns. As a result, they are more apt to take risks.

The role of reason

Aside from birth order, there is also a notable difference in the way highly creative people report having been disciplined as a child. Parents who emphasize moral values, rather than absolute rules, and who explain the reason for a particular rule, are actually encouraging their children to comply voluntarily. They also tend to encourage their children to consider the impact of their actions on others.

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The insights from Originals can be applied to educational settings to foster original thinking and innovation by emphasizing moral values over absolute rules and explaining the reasons behind rules. This encourages students to comply voluntarily and consider the impact of their actions on others. Additionally, fostering an environment that encourages original thinking and innovation can be achieved by promoting open dialogue, encouraging questioning, and allowing for creative expression.

The book "Originals" challenges traditional parenting methods by emphasizing the importance of moral values over absolute rules. It suggests that parents who explain the reason for a particular rule are encouraging their children to comply voluntarily. This approach fosters creativity as it allows children to think independently and consider the impact of their actions on others. The book also highlights the role of birth order in creativity, suggesting that it can significantly influence a child's creative development.

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Another key parenting tactic that encourages creative children is to praise their character: saying, "you are a very helpful person," rather than "that was a nice thing to do;" or, "please don't be a cheater," rather than "please don't cheat." Children internalize these comments and make them a part of their self-identity.

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The book 'Originals' has significantly influenced corporate strategies and business models by encouraging innovation and original thinking. It has inspired businesses to foster a culture of creativity and risk-taking. The book's insights on how original thinkers developed their novel ideas, mitigated risks, and persuaded others have been applied in strategic planning and decision-making processes. Moreover, it has changed the way businesses perceive and respond to change, leading to the development of more flexible and adaptive business models.

A startup can use the key topic of character praise to grow by applying it in their team management and leadership style. By praising the character of their employees, rather than their actions, startups can foster a culture of innovation and creativity. Employees who feel valued for who they are, rather than what they do, are more likely to take risks and come up with original ideas. This can lead to innovative solutions and strategies that can help the startup grow.

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Strong cultures

What really causes groupthink, and what can we do to prevent it?

the problem with Polaroid

Edwin Land, the founder of Polaroid, was an original who is remembered for inventing the instant camera. Unfortunately, he did not instill those original attributes in his company; Polaroid pioneered the digital camera, but ultimately went bankrupt because of it. Land and his senior managers made the fatal assumption that customers would always want hard copies of their pictures; in a classic case of groupthink, no-one questioned this assumption. Company founders tend to follow one of three organizational models or blueprints:

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Polaroid's organizational model was largely influenced by its founder, Edwin Land, who was an original thinker and innovator. However, this originality did not permeate the entire organization. Polaroid made a fatal assumption that customers would always want hard copies of their pictures, which was a result of groupthink within the company. This lack of questioning and critical thinking within the organization led to a failure to adapt to the digital age, ultimately leading to its bankruptcy. It's crucial for organizations to foster a culture of innovation and adaptability, and to question assumptions, in order to stay relevant in a rapidly changing market.

Edwin Land, the founder of Polaroid, is most remembered for his surprising idea of inventing the instant camera. This was a revolutionary concept at the time, as it allowed people to see their photos immediately after they were taken, without the need for a darkroom or waiting for film to be developed. Another surprising idea was the development of the digital camera by Polaroid under Land's leadership. However, this idea led to the company's downfall as they made the fatal assumption that customers would always want hard copies of their pictures, which turned out to be incorrect with the rise of digital photography.

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  1. Professional – They hire candidates with specific skills.
  2. Star – They look for future potential rather than current skills, hiring the brightest people.
  3. Commitment – They focus on cultural fit before all else, looking for people who match the company's values and norms. Companies with commitment blueprints work to build strong emotional bonds among employees and to the organization.

Sociologist James Barron studied firms across the three blueprint types and found that those with a commitment blueprint had the highest success rate. Failure rates were much higher for star blueprint firms and highest of all for professional ones.

In its early days, Polaroid embodied the commitment blueprint, with core values of intensity, originality, and quality, and hiring a diverse workforce. Over time, however, commitment cultures become too insular. In a more competitive marketplace they are less likely to recognize the need for change. As the digital revolution began, Polaroid's dominant culture had made it overly-confident in its analysis. The company was unable to recognize the need to change.

Questions and answers

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The book 'Originals' offers several key takeaways for entrepreneurs and managers. Firstly, it emphasizes the importance of original thinking and innovation in business. It suggests that successful companies are those that encourage diversity and originality in their workforce. Secondly, it warns against becoming too insular or overly-confident in one's business strategies. It highlights the downfall of Polaroid as an example of a company that failed to adapt to the digital revolution due to its insular culture. Lastly, it underscores the importance of recognizing the need for change and being open to new ideas and strategies.

The themes of the book "Originals" are highly relevant to contemporary issues and debates in the business world. The book discusses how innovators and original thinkers develop their novel ideas, mitigate risks, persuade others, and change the way we see the world. These themes are pertinent in today's business environment where innovation, risk management, and persuasion are key to success. Furthermore, the book's exploration of how commitment cultures can become too insular and resistant to change is a crucial lesson for businesses in the rapidly evolving digital age.

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Bridgewater Associates

One of the strongest corporate cultures around is that of investment firm Bridgewater Associates. Its philosophy is outlined in a set of over 200 principles written by the founder, Ray Dalio. New employees are hired based on how well they fit with the way of operating described in the principles.

Despite being a part of the volatile financial services industry, Bridgewater has thrived; it is consistently praised for its innovative strategies. Its secret is promoting the expression of original ideas. The company avoids the stagnation of groupthink by inviting dissenting opinions. Every employee is expected to voice concerns and critiques directly to each other; they are evaluated on whether they speak up. They are even expected to challenge the core principles. Dalio wants people who think independently and so enrich the culture. Decisions are not based on seniority, as at Polaroid, but on quality.

Questions and answers

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Potential obstacles companies might face when promoting original ideas include resistance to change, fear of risk, and groupthink. Overcoming these obstacles requires creating a culture that values innovation and dissenting opinions. This can be achieved by encouraging employees to voice their ideas and concerns, rewarding original thinking, and making decisions based on the quality of ideas rather than seniority.

1. Encourage original thinking: The book emphasizes the importance of promoting original ideas in a business setting. This can be done by creating an environment where employees feel comfortable expressing their unique perspectives and challenging the status quo.

2. Mitigate risks: Original thinkers are not reckless risk-takers. They take calculated risks and always have a backup plan. This approach can be adopted by entrepreneurs and managers to mitigate potential losses.

3. Persuade others: The book highlights the importance of persuasion in implementing novel ideas. Entrepreneurs and managers can use effective communication and persuasion techniques to get buy-in for their ideas from stakeholders.

4. Change perception: Original thinkers have the ability to change the way people see the world. Entrepreneurs and managers can strive to introduce innovative products or services that can change perceptions and create a new market.

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This is not the same as assigning a devil's advocate, someone who's role is to voice dissent on an idea. Managers tend to pay only lip service to assigned devil's advocates—genuine dissenters are much more valuable. Bridgewater goes out of its way to find dissenters and encourages people to sit down and thrash out their disagreements. Dalio says the resulting cacophony is the best way for people to learn; the transparency avoids groupthink. Rather than espouse the standard management line of "don't bring me problems, bring me solutions," Bridgewater encourages employees to raise problems. Then, everyone can figure out what the best solution is.

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The book "Originals" offers several key takeaways for entrepreneurs and managers. Firstly, it emphasizes the importance of genuine dissenters in an organization. Unlike assigned devil's advocates, genuine dissenters voice their disagreements, which can lead to productive discussions and avoid groupthink. Secondly, the book encourages the practice of raising problems openly. Instead of hiding issues, it's beneficial for everyone to understand the problem and collectively figure out the best solution. Lastly, the book highlights the value of original thinkers and innovators, suggesting that their novel ideas can change the way we see the world.

The lessons from the book 'Originals' can be applied in today's business environment in several ways. Firstly, it encourages fostering an environment that values genuine dissent and open discussions, which can lead to innovative solutions. This can be done by encouraging employees to voice their disagreements and ideas openly. Secondly, instead of the standard management line of 'don't bring me problems, bring me solutions,' businesses can encourage employees to raise problems so that everyone can work together to find the best solution. This approach can help avoid groupthink and promote original thinking.

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Not everyone's opinion is rated equally—Bridgewater is not a democracy. Instead, every employee has a believability score on a range of dimensions of values, skills, and abilities. When you express an opinion, it's weighted by whether you've established yourself as believable on that dimension.

Dalio's number one principle is, "you must think for yourself." The Bridgewater culture helps to unleash originality in others.

How to keep going

Going against the grain involves a lot of emotional drama. How do we recognize that, and make it work for us?

Defensive pessimism

Faced with challenges, people take one of two approaches. A strategic optimist will stay calm, anticipate the best, and set high expectations. A defensive pessimist will feel anxious, expect the worst, and imagine everything that might go wrong. Interestingly, pessimism can help to manage fear and anxiety—by imagining the worst, the defensive pessimist is motivated to avoid it. The fear turns into commitment. The anxiety peaks before the event, leaving them ready to succeed.

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A startup can leverage the ideas of strategic optimism and defensive pessimism from the book Originals for growth by applying these concepts in their strategic planning and decision-making processes. Strategic optimism involves setting high expectations and anticipating the best outcomes. This can motivate the team and drive them towards ambitious goals. On the other hand, defensive pessimism involves expecting the worst and imagining everything that might go wrong. This can help in risk management, as it encourages the team to prepare for potential challenges and setbacks. By balancing these two approaches, a startup can aim for high growth while also being prepared to handle any obstacles that come their way.

The book 'Originals' provides several key takeaways for entrepreneurs and managers. Firstly, it emphasizes the importance of both strategic optimism and defensive pessimism in facing challenges. Strategic optimists stay calm, anticipate the best, and set high expectations, while defensive pessimists manage fear and anxiety by imagining the worst-case scenarios and working to avoid them. This approach can turn fear into commitment and readiness to succeed. Secondly, the book highlights the importance of innovation and original thinking in changing the way we see the world. It provides insights into how original thinkers developed their novel ideas, mitigated risks, and persuaded others.

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One of the universal fears is public speaking—and the usual advice to someone about to speak on stage is, "try to relax and stay calm." The best advice, however, is to get the speaker to reframe the fear as excitement. Fear is an intense emotion; rather than try to suppress it, convert it into another intense emotion.

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The ideas in "Originals" have significant potential for real-world implementation. The book provides insights into how innovators and original thinkers developed their novel ideas, mitigated risks, and persuaded others. These concepts can be applied in various fields, including business, education, and personal development. For instance, the idea of reframing fear as excitement can be used in public speaking or any situation that induces fear. However, the effectiveness of these ideas would depend on the individual's ability to understand, adapt, and apply them in their specific context.

A small business can use the key topics or framework covered in Originals to grow by fostering a culture of innovation and original thinking. This involves encouraging employees to develop novel ideas, take calculated risks, and persuade others. The business can also learn to reframe challenges or fears as opportunities for growth and excitement. This approach can lead to unique solutions and strategies that set the business apart from its competitors, thereby facilitating growth.

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Inspiring others

If you want to inspire people to go out on a limb, you need to show them that they are not alone. This was a tactic developed by Srdja Popovic, one of the masterminds behind Otpor!, the grassroots youth nonviolence movement that overthrew the dictator Slobodan Milosevic in Serbia. Popovic realized that true revolution is not a sudden explosion but a long, controlled burn. The movement focused on accumulating small wins that people could look back on and get a sense of progress, which helped to build their commitment.

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Startups can learn several valuable lessons from the concept of accumulating small wins as described in the book 'Originals'. Firstly, it emphasizes the importance of gradual progress over immediate success. By focusing on achieving small wins, startups can build momentum and foster a sense of achievement within their teams. This can help to boost morale and commitment, which are crucial for long-term success. Secondly, it highlights the value of persistence and resilience. Even if a startup doesn't achieve its ultimate goal immediately, each small win brings it one step closer. Finally, accumulating small wins can help startups to mitigate risks. By focusing on smaller, more manageable goals, they can avoid putting all their eggs in one basket and reduce the potential impact of failure.

The tactics developed by Srdja Popovic in the Otpor! movement can be applied in a business context to inspire innovation by focusing on accumulating small wins. This approach can help to build commitment among team members. It's about showing people that they are not alone in their efforts and that every small step towards innovation counts. This can be done by celebrating small victories, encouraging collaboration, and fostering an environment where everyone feels their contributions are valued and impactful. This approach can inspire people to take risks and innovate, knowing that their efforts will be recognized and appreciated.

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When they launched Otpor!, the young activists knew they needed to outsource inspiration, creating a symbol—a black clenched fist—that they spray painted across the capital, Belgrade. Seeing the symbol let those who opposed the regime know that they were not alone. They also used humor to attract allies and subvert enemies, such as sending Milosevic birthday presents like a one-way ticket to the Hague to be tried for war crimes. Humor is a great way to defuse the fear of speaking up.

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The book 'Originals' discusses the use of symbolism and humor in social movements through the example of the Otpor! movement. The activists created a symbol, a black clenched fist, which they spray painted across Belgrade. This symbol served to inspire and unite those who opposed the regime. Humor was also used as a tool to attract allies and subvert enemies. For instance, they sent Milosevic humorous birthday presents like a one-way ticket to the Hague to be tried for war crimes. This use of humor helped to defuse the fear of speaking up.

The symbol of a black clenched fist played a significant role in the success of Otpor! by serving as a powerful visual representation of resistance and unity. It was spray painted across the capital, Belgrade, which helped to spread the message of the movement and let those who opposed the regime know that they were not alone. This symbol became a rallying point for the people, fostering a sense of solidarity and collective strength among the masses.

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When people think a challenge is particularly risky, they are not going to be motivated to act if you highlight the benefits of change. In this case, the best way to motivate them is to destabilize the status quo and emphasize all the bad things that will happen if they don't act. Remember Martin Luther King, Jr.'s speech? He spent the first 11 minutes stressing all the negative things about the status quo, before delivering the hope for change. He laid out the fierce urgency of now then turned to what could be. His audience needed to see the nightmare of today before they could be moved by his dream of tomorrow.

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The ideas presented in Originals can be used to foster innovation in a traditional business environment by encouraging original thinking and challenging the status quo. This can be done by emphasizing the negative consequences of not changing and the benefits of adopting new, innovative ideas. It's also important to create a safe environment where employees feel comfortable expressing their unique ideas and taking calculated risks. Furthermore, persuading others to accept and support these new ideas is crucial for fostering innovation.

Destabilizing the status quo can have both potential risks and benefits. The risks include causing discomfort and resistance among those who are comfortable with the current state of affairs. It can lead to uncertainty and instability, and there's always a chance that the new state of affairs may not be better than the current one. On the other hand, the benefits include the possibility of improvement and progress. It can lead to innovation and original thinking, and can challenge complacency and stagnation. It can also expose and address underlying issues that may have been ignored or overlooked in the status quo.

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Deep acting

Anger can help to motivate us but taken too far it can make us less effective. Venting might make us feel better in the near-term, but it also stokes the anger and makes us more aggressive—toward everyone. A central theme of the civil rights movement was to stop venting and to channel anger into reflecting on the victims of the injustice. It's a way of staying both hot and cold—hot to fuel the change, and simultaneously cool to figure out how to shape the action.

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The book "Originals" presents a unique perspective on managing anger. Instead of venting, which can make us more aggressive, it suggests channeling anger into reflecting on the victims of the injustice. This approach allows us to stay motivated (hot) to fuel change, while also maintaining a level-headed (cool) mindset to figure out how to shape the action. This idea is innovative as it promotes a balanced approach to dealing with anger, using it as a tool for positive change rather than letting it control our actions.

A startup can use anger management strategies from Originals to fuel growth by channeling any anger or frustration into motivation for change and improvement. Instead of venting or allowing anger to make the team aggressive, the startup can reflect on the causes of the anger and use it to fuel the desire for change. This approach allows the team to stay motivated (hot) while also maintaining a clear head (cool) to strategize and plan for action.

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If you're feeling an intense emotion like anger, you can put on a mask and pretend you're not upset, but this is surface acting. Much more effective is to employ deep acting—changing your inner feelings to actually become the character you want to be. It is what actors call method acting. You have to dissolve the divide between your true self and the role you are playing. Martin Luther King, Jr. did this by calling attention to the victims of violence and injustice, channeling the emotion into anger for others, rather than against the oppressor. Being angry for others makes us want to help, to seek justice, to create a better system rather than just punish and destroy.

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Small businesses can utilize the concept of deep acting by truly understanding and empathizing with their customers. This involves more than just surface-level interactions; it requires genuinely feeling and responding to the needs and emotions of the customers. By doing so, businesses can better serve their customers by providing personalized solutions and building stronger relationships. This approach can lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty, ultimately benefiting the business.

The concept of deep acting challenges traditional approaches to managing emotions in high-stress situations by advocating for a change in inner feelings rather than just surface-level pretense. Instead of merely putting on a mask to hide intense emotions such as anger, deep acting encourages individuals to actually become the character they want to be. This involves dissolving the divide between one's true self and the role they are playing. For instance, Martin Luther King, Jr. used deep acting by channeling his emotions into anger for the victims of violence and injustice, rather than against the oppressor. This approach promotes a desire to help, seek justice, and create a better system rather than just punish and destroy.

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Originals embrace this uphill battle for change, striving to make the world what it could be.

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