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Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, has a key piece of advice for anyone looking to do something new or innovative: be prepared to be misunderstood. This isn't just a casual suggestion; it's a vital part of the innovation process.
Photo: Patrick Semansky /AP
The Nature of Innovation
Innovation means creating something that didn't exist before or improving something in a way that hasn't been done. By its very nature, innovation is disruptive. It challenges the status quo and often makes people uncomfortable. Bezos explains that if you can't tolerate being misunderstood, then you shouldn't attempt anything new or innovative.
Misunderstanding: A Common Experience
Every significant innovation Amazon has introduced has faced criticism. Sometimes, these critics are well-meaning and sincere, genuinely concerned about the potential impact of the innovation. Other times, they are self-interested and insincere, perhaps threatened by the change that innovation brings.
Bezos points out that this is a common experience for anyone trying to innovate. Understanding this can help innovators persevere through the initial resistance they will undoubtedly face.
Examples of Misunderstood Innovators
Steve Jobs and the iPhone: When Steve Jobs introduced the iPhone in 2007, it was met with skepticism. Critics questioned the need for a phone without a physical keyboard and doubted its potential for success. Today, the iPhone is considered one of the most revolutionary products ever created, transforming the way we communicate and access information.
Elon Musk and SpaceX: Elon Musk faced significant skepticism when he founded SpaceX. Many experts doubted that a private company could succeed in the highly complex and expensive field of space exploration. Despite early failures and criticism, SpaceX has achieved remarkable milestones, including the first privately-funded spacecraft to reach orbit and the first private company to send astronauts to the International Space Station.
J.K. Rowling and Harry Potter: J.K. Rowling's "Harry Potter" series was initially rejected by multiple publishers who didn't believe in the potential of a children's book about a young wizard. Today, the series is one of the best-selling book series in history, beloved by readers of all ages around the world.
The Takeaway
Bezos' message is clear: if you're going to innovate, expect to be misunderstood. It's a natural part of the process. Understanding and accepting this reality can help you stay the course and continue to push the boundaries of what's possible.
So, if you have an innovative idea or project, embrace the misunderstanding that comes with it. Remember that some of the greatest innovations in history were initially met with skepticism and doubt. Keep your vision clear, stay resilient, and let the criticism fuel your drive to succeed.
Listen to Jeff: