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Found Quote by Edward de Bono

“The vertical thinker says: 'I know what I am looking for.' The lateral thinker says: 'I am looking but I won't know what I am looking for until I have found it.'” quote by Edward de Bono
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“The vertical thinker says: 'I know what I am looking for.' The lateral thinker says: 'I am looking but I won't know what I am looking for until I have found it.'”

Edward de Bono

About This Quote

Source Book: Lateral Thinking, by Edward de Bono, 1970

A vertical thinker seeks a known goal, while a lateral thinker embraces uncertainty, discovering goals only after exploration.

In simple terms: Vertical seeks known goals; lateral embraces unknown.

Key Takeaway

Be open to uncertain paths.

Themes

creativity problem solving mindset

Mood

curious reflective

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • business strategy
  • creative projects
  • personal growth
  • research
  • innovation

Key Concepts

lateral thinking vertical thinking uncertainty

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you prefer certainty or discovery?
  • How can you balance both approaches?
A Different Perspective

Lateral thinking may lack clear direction, causing frustration.

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