Edward de Bono: 'To be successful you have to be lucky, or a little mad, or very talented, or find yourself in a rapid growth field.'

To be successful you have to be lucky, or a little mad, or very talented, or find yourself in a rapid growth field.

In his quote, Edward de Bono offers a thought-provoking insight into the various paths that can lead to success. He suggests that luck, a touch of madness, exceptional talent, or finding oneself in a rapidly growing field are all factors that can contribute to achieving success. Summarizing this quote in a straightforward manner, it is clear that de Bono believes there are different routes to success, and these routes may not always align with conventional expectations.The importance of this quote lies in its ability to challenge our preconceived notions about success. It encourages us to embrace unconventional ideas and pathways, acknowledging that the journey towards success may not always conform to societal norms or expectations. This quote acts as a reminder that success is a multifaceted concept and can manifest in different ways for different individuals.Now, let's introduce an unexpected philosophical concept to add an intriguing twist to the article – existentialism. Existentialism, a philosophical school of thought that emerged in the 19th and 20th centuries, explores the individual's search for meaning and purpose in an otherwise chaotic and absurd universe. In a way, existentialism aligns with de Bono's quote as it challenges conventional notions of success and encourages individuals to define their own path based on personal values and passions.When juxtaposing de Bono's quote with existentialism, we can draw interesting comparisons. Luck, as mentioned in the quote, aligns with the existential idea of chance and randomness in life. Existentialists argue that individuals are often at the mercy of fate and chance occurrences, shaping their experiences and opportunities along their journey. Similarly, de Bono suggests that luck can play a significant role in determining success.Furthermore, the notion of being a little mad corresponds to the existential concept of embracing individual freedom and breaking away from societal expectations. Existentialists argue that societal norms and expectations can stifle personal growth and authenticity. By advocating for a touch of madness, de Bono might be suggesting that success often comes to those who are bold enough to challenge the status quo, take risks, and think outside the box.Additionally, both de Bono's quote and existentialism acknowledge the importance of individual talents and abilities. De Bono recognizes that exceptional talent is often a catalyst for success. Existentialists, too, emphasize the uniqueness of individuals and the need to embrace and develop their own distinctive talents and capabilities.Lastly, finding oneself in a rapid growth field mentioned in de Bono's quote can be likened to the existentialist idea of creating meaning in a seemingly meaningless world. Existentialists argue that individuals can find purpose and fulfillment by engaging with activities that provide personal significance. Being in a rapid growth field presents opportunities for individuals to contribute to society, make a difference, and explore their potential – aspects that align with existentialism's search for meaning.In conclusion, de Bono's quote captures the multifaceted nature of success, highlighting the possibility for unconventional paths to achievement. When viewed through the lens of existentialism, we gain a deeper understanding of the underlying philosophies that can both challenge and complement de Bono's ideas. By recognizing the role of luck, madness, talent, and finding oneself in a rapid growth field, we open ourselves to a broader perspective of success and embrace the individual's capacity to define their own unique pathway. Ultimately, this quote prompts a reflection on the diverse and complex nature of success, inviting us to embrace our own individual journeys with open minds and adventurous spirits.