TED: The surprising habits of original thinkers | Adam Grant

The speaker reflects on missing an investment opportunity with Warby Parker, a company that became highly successful. He explores the traits of 'originals,' who are nonconformists driving creativity and change. The talk highlights the role of procrastination in fostering creativity, using historical examples like Leonardo da Vinci and Martin Luther King Jr. The speaker debunks the first-mover advantage myth, emphasizing that being different and better is more important. Originals manage doubt and fear differently, and success often comes from generating a high volume of ideas.

What was the speaker's initial reaction to Warby Parker's business plan?

• He wanted to join the team.

• He declined to invest.

• He was eager to invest.

• He suggested they change their business model.

What term does the speaker use to describe himself in contrast to a procrastinator?

• Forethinker

• Anticipator

• Precrastinator

• Planner

According to the speaker, what is the 'sweet spot' for creativity?

• Procrastinating until the last minute

• Starting early and finishing quickly

• Moderate procrastination

• Avoiding procrastination altogether

How did Leonardo da Vinci's procrastination benefit his work?

• It made him more famous during his lifetime.

• It helped him improve his techniques in optics.

• It allowed him to complete more paintings.

• It led to the creation of more sculptures.

What significant change did Martin Luther King Jr. make to his speech at the last minute?

• He added a new introduction.

• He included the phrase 'I have a dream.'

• He removed a controversial section.

• He shortened the speech significantly.

What is the speaker's view on the first-mover advantage?

• It is irrelevant in today's market.

• It guarantees market dominance.

• It is mostly a myth.

• It is crucial for success.

Which companies are cited as examples of successful 'improvers'?

• Facebook and Google

• Amazon and eBay

• Netflix and Hulu

• Apple and Microsoft

What type of doubt does the speaker suggest is beneficial for creativity?

• Self-doubt

• Idea doubt

• No doubt

• General doubt

What does the speaker suggest is a common trait among the greatest originals?

• They have few ideas but all are good.

• They generate a large volume of ideas.

• They always work alone.

• They never experience failure.

What is the speaker's final message about being original?

• It is easy and straightforward.

• It is the best way to improve the world.

• It requires avoiding all fear and doubt.

• It is only for a select few.