Copying Quote by Ed Catmull
““Even though copying what’s come before is a guaranteed path to mediocrity, it appears to be a safe choice, and the desire to be safe—to succeed with minimal risk—can infect not just individuals but also entire companies. If we sense that our structures are rigid, inflexible, or bureaucratic, we must bust them open—without destroying ourselves in the process.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Pixar University Talk, 2012
Copying past work leads to mediocrity; safety‑driven risk aversion can cripple individuals and firms, so rigid structures must be challenged without self‑destruction.
In simple terms: Playing it safe stifles innovation; break rigid systems carefully.
Key Takeaway
Challenge norms, but preserve core values.
Themes
innovation
risk
culture
change
leadership
Mood
cautious
determined
Type
motivational
strategic
When to use this quote
- product development
- team building
- strategic planning
- company restructuring
Key Concepts
organizational design
creative risk
systemic inertia
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you test new ideas safely?
- What safeguards protect core identity during change?
A Different Perspective
Breaking structures may cause instability if not managed.
