Future Innovation Success with a Full View

Understand Both Abstract Reasons and Concrete Details for Maximum Impact

Photo by Drew Beamer on Unsplash

When we think of events in the distant past or distant future we tend to think abstractly about why they happened or will happen, but when we think of events in the near past or near future we tend to think concretely about how they happened or will happen. - from Stumbling on Happiness by Daniel Gilbert

Daniel Gilbert says when thinking about events far in the future or past, we think about why they happen. When thinking about events soon or recently, we think about how they happen.

Relating this to future innovations, it is important to consider both the abstract reasons behind the ideas (why they will happen) and the concrete details of how they will come about (how they will happen).

Example: When thinking of self-driving cars, it's important to consider both the abstract reason (e.g. to reduce accidents) and the concrete details (e.g. how the technology will be integrated into cars). This holistic approach will give us a better understanding of the potential benefits and challenges of your idea.

Therefore, seek feedback on the long-term and short-term impact of your idea from those around you.