15 Facts from Kevin Ashton’s "How to Fly a Horse" You Must Know
15 Facts – Kevin Ashton’s How to Fly a Horse: The Secret History of Creation, Invention, and Discovery challenges myths about creativity and innovation, emphasizing the ordinary, persistent nature of great inventions.
Here are the top learnings from the book:
- Creativity Is a Process, Not a Gift
- Great ideas and breakthroughs are not the result of sudden inspiration or genius.
- Creativity is hard work, persistence, and the ability to solve problems over time.
- The Myth of the Lone Genius
- Innovations and discoveries are rarely the product of a single “genius.”
- They are often the result of collaboration, incremental improvements, and contributions from many people over time.
- Failure Is Part of Success
- Failure is an essential step in the creative process.
- Innovators learn from their mistakes and use them as stepping stones to refine their ideas.
- The Value of Perseverance
- Most breakthroughs occur after repeated efforts and continued persistence, even in the face of setbacks.
- Success in creativity is less about innate talent and more about determination and endurance.
- Small Steps Lead to Big Changes
- Most innovations are not giant leaps but incremental improvements built over time.
Small, consistent progress is the foundation of transformative ideas.
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- Breakthroughs Are Rooted in Hard Work
- Behind every “eureka moment” lies years of preparation, experimentation, and effort.
- Successful innovators focus on the process rather than waiting for sudden inspiration.
- Problem-Solving Over Inspiration
- Creativity is about solving real problems, not just coming up with ideas.
- Effective innovators focus on identifying and addressing challenges step by step.
- The Importance of Focus
- Distraction and multitasking undermine the creative process.
- True innovation requires deep focus and sustained attention on the task at hand.
- Rejection and Criticism Are Normal
- New ideas often face scepticism and resistance from others.
- Innovators should accept rejection as part of the journey and remain committed to their vision.
- The Role of Curiosity
- Staying curious and asking “why” is essential for discovery and invention.
- Curiosity drives the exploration of new ideas and the desire to improve existing ones.
- Collaboration Amplifies Creativity
- Working with others and incorporating diverse perspectives can enhance the creative process.
- Many of history’s greatest innovations were the result of teamwork and shared knowledge.
- Creation Is Universal
- Creativity is not limited to a select few; everyone has the potential to create and innovate.
- Innovation can happen in everyday life, not just in labs or corporate settings.
- Focus on Doing, Not Thinking
- Spending too much time planning or theorizing can hinder progress.
- Start working on ideas, even imperfectly, to discover what works and what doesn’t.
- Celebrate Ordinary Acts of Creativity
- Everyday problem-solving and small innovations are as valuable as grand, world-changing discoveries.
- Recognize and appreciate the creative efforts in daily life.
- Creativity Takes Courage
- Innovating means challenging the status quo and taking risks.
- Courage to persist, even when facing doubt or failure, is key to achieving meaningful results.
How to Fly a Horse serves as an inspiring reminder that creativity is not a magical gift but a skill that can be cultivated through effort, perseverance, and an open mind. It’s a celebration of the human capacity to create and innovate, no matter how ordinary the circumstances. Would you like to explore how to apply these principles to your work or projects?
Syed Saif the founder and CEO of Brainow Consulting. He has over 24 Years of experience in Quality, Excellence, Innovation, Six Sigma, Lean, and Customer Services. He is a Certified Master Black Belt, ISO Lead Auditor, High Impact Trainer, Certified Business Excellence Assessor, Certified on Innovation Business Model Canvas, and holds a PG diploma in Customer Relationship Management. Syed Saif has trained thousands of people, from students to CEOs on various improvement methodologies and self help techniques, and has worked in various industries including BPO, Telecom, IT, Insurance, Manufacturing, and Healthcare. Prior to his full-time consulting role, he served as Vice President for a Leading Insurance Company and as National Head of Quality, Innovation, and Service for Corporate and Sales Functions. See our services page for more details on what we do and how can we help you and your organization.