“To avoid criticism, say nothing, do nothing, be nothing.” — Elbert Hubbard
The world celebrates originality—but only after it succeeds. At first, bold ideas get rejected. The best thinkers, creators, and leaders weren’t praised for fitting in; they were ridiculed for standing out.
That’s why being original takes courage. It means risking failure, rejection, and looking foolish. But here’s the truth: Every breakthrough idea was once considered crazy.
Painting Melted Clocks
At the age of 27, a young artist painted something bizarre: a landscape filled with melting clocks. No one had seen anything like it. It defied logic, ignored traditional techniques, and broke every rule of art at the time. He was young. Forgive him they said.
Critics dismissed it as nonsense. But he didn’t care.
He kept painting in his surreal, dreamlike style, refusing to conform.
Today, The Persistence of Memory is one of the most famous paintings in the world.
That young artist was Salvador Dalí. He didn’t just create art—he changed art.
What if he had played it safe? What if he had painted what was “normal”? The world would have missed out on something extraordinary.
The Truth About Originality
Most people are afraid to be original because it means standing alone—at least for a while. The first person to do something new always faces doubt, criticism, and even failure.
But originality is what moves the world forward.
• The first person who ran a marathon was told it was impossible.
• The first person who built a car was told horses were fine.
• The first person who made a movie with sound was laughed at.
Every great idea looks strange before it looks brilliant.
Dash of Courage: Do the Wow Thing
This week, do one thing that feels bold, different, or unconventional. Share a new idea. Make something Wow. Stand out.
Because the world doesn’t need more copies.
It needs you.
@Copyright Garrett Gravesen 2024. All Rights received
