Success is primarily the result of hard work, not just great ideas. Creativity and inspiration are essential. Until something is done with those ideas, they have no value. No results are ever generated. Creativity and inspiration start a process that solves problems. This process can bring about change and generate positive results. Until something is done, until action is taken, even the best ideas are worthless. When something is done, the world can become a better place.
Hope is not a strategy; we have all heard the saying, and it is true. Some of the world’s greatest thinkers have reached the same conclusion. Good thoughts, vision, ideas, inspiration, and the like, are only concepts until something gets done to make them a reality.
Thomas Edison held over 1,000 patents, including the light bulb and the motion picture camera. Often being labeled a genius, Edison remarked that, “Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration.” He understood that hard work was the majority of what was needed for his vision to become a reality. But most people never saw Edison’s hard work. They didn’t see the financial investments he made in research and development. They only heard about his vision. They considered him a genius and enjoyed the results.
Gino Wickman is the founder of EOS International (EOSi). The company has helped tens of thousands of organizations. These organizations have grown stronger and more successful through the implementation of its principles. Wickman said, “Vision without traction is hallucination.” Traction, like a car tire, needs a grip on the pavement to move ahead.
The apostle James wrote that “Faith without works is dead.” Believing in the existence of God is not enough to achieve salvation, according to James. True faith, he wrote, must is proven through actions that reflect love and care for others; hallmarks of biblical teaching. Genuine faith leads people to do good deeds. However, good deeds by themselves do not result in a right relationship with God. It is through what is done that faith is demonstrated as being alive and active.
In business as in every other aspect of life, wishful thinking alone does not produce results. Thoughts and ideas are not powerful enough to create anything or solve the problems that people encounter. Taking action and doing something is the first step toward making a difference in the world.
By Todd Paetznick, December 16, 2025
Todd is a writer, speaker, and Professional EOS Implementer based in metro Atlanta. To learn more about the business coaching services he offers, please visit: eosworldwide.com/todd-paetznick
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