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There’s nothing more dangerous than trying to prove a point by using a quote you don’t have memorized. Alas, this post is merely an article that can be used as a reference guide for those “on the tip of my tongue” moments in business, where you need a few, consolidated words to hammer home your pitch, sentence, or last word. There’s some additional color included, just in case you need a little extra chutzpah. 

“If I had asked people what they wanted, they would have said faster horses.”

Henry Ford

One of America’s pioneering business minds, Henry Ford reinvented the way manufacturing was done with his revolutionary assembly lines. This quote always reminds us to keep thinking ahead, and avoid trying to reinvent the wheel. 

“Insight is not a lightbulb that goes off inside our heads. It is a flickering candle that can easily be snuffed out.” 

Malcolm Gladwell

Over the past 20 years, Malcolm Gladwell has mezmorized millions of people with his thought-provoking books, articles, and podcasts. In business, going with your gut can sometimes be the difference between major success and utter failure. Trust yourself and your team to make decisions when push comes to shove. 

“Kites rise highest against the wind—not with it.”

Winston Churchill

Churchill was known for many things—but most notably, his ability to lead a nation during a time of need. If there’s anyone who knew struggle, it was him. Whenever times get tough, and your back is against the wall, keep the end goal in mind, and never stop working to achieve it. 

“I would trade all of my technology for an afternoon with Socrates.”

Steve jobs

Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple, certainly had a way with words. Despite his aggressive business tactics and standoffish personality, his allure and innovation led multiple companies he oversaw to year-over-year growth. If he was willing to give it all up for one afternoon, then it must be worth it. It’s the little things in life that change us and, hopefully, make us better.

“Any fool can know. The point is to understand.”

Albert Einstein

Einstein, one of the most brilliant minds to ever walk the earth, states it brilliantly. If you’re trying to solve a problem, don’t just Google an answer and ignore the article that supports the reasoning. Take time to understand the problems you’re facing, and more importantly, the solutions you’re going to implement.