Passionately pursing innovation takes a drive that pushes an individual not just beyond the ordinary, but beyond the comfortable. Individuals who are highly innovative have an intensity or an angst that propels them to learn, expand and advance. It may include a zealous type of enthusiasm about certain topics and involve a constant stream of ideas. This intensity may feel edgy to others, but in fact, this high level of awareness of subtleties is not only unusual but also extremely precious, says Imi Lo, author of The Gift of Intensity.
Innovators don’t just think outside the box, they get rid of the box all together. They chase their concept at the abandonment of all else. Innovation is born from struggle, from failure, from frustration. As they grow, they must learn to embrace these characteristics in order to discover, create and invent new solutions that have yet to be conceived.
In addition to intensity, innovators must aspire. They must be seekers constantly looking for valuable problems to solve. They must evolve and be able to transpose new methodologies that can be borrowed and applied to new purposes. They must have a far-reaching vision that can act as a catalyst for their ideas and have the courage to forge past the failures to see the opportunities that lie beyond. Elon Musk, founder of SpaceX and Tesla Motors once said, “Failure is an option here. If things are not failing, you are not innovating enough.” Finally, they must stay motivated against all odds and mobilize those around them to share in and help build their vision for the future.
Embrace the struggle my young man. Find value in the failure and see the intensity as something to be treasured. Passionately purse innovation and be a visionary that moves us forward to change the world for the better.
Innovation is not born from the dream; innovation is born from the struggle.
Simon Sinek










