Thomas Alva Edison was one of the most prolific inventors in the history of the world, holding over a thousand patents in his name in USA alone, in addition to a number of patents in the United Kingdom, France and Germany. This was a guy who knew what it takes to innovate successfully day after day. Needless to say, you can make great strides if you can understand and follow the Edison method, a sure-shot blueprint for success.

Often people mistakenly believe that Edison was a lone genius. But actually, he was quite a team person who knew how to get the best out of the people who worked with him. His systematic approach to success is a formula that can be used in all aspects of life, and especially to innovating, Edison’s specialty.

Edison’s Way

Think Solution – Edison knew exactly what he wanted and went for it passionately. Working with a solution in mind is the best method to cut through all the clutter and distractions.

Consider all angles – Edison made it a habit of approaching a problem from all sides. This gave him a number of different perspectives and helped him to visualize the best solution.

Be in the Now! – Being able to focus all his attention and energy into one thing at a given moment was one of Edison’s greatest strengths. He was always present in the moment.

Two heads are better than one – Edison believed in creating master-mind groups to bring out the best ideas from his people, creating a synergy of minds.

Think ahead – Edison thought all the way, from visualizing a product to taking it to the market. He focused on creating revolutionary products that would help people solve their problems.

All of us can think like Edison if we want, and create great inventions to be proud of. The master used to say, “If we did all the things we are capable of doing, we would literally astound ourselves.”

So what do you say… why don’t we astound ourselves for a change?