Able Quote by Malcolm Gladwell
“Innovators have to be open. They have to be able to imagine things that others cannot and be willing to challenge their own preconceptions. They also need to be conscientious. An innovator who has brilliant ideas but lacks the discipline and persistence to carry them out is merely a dreamer ... But crucially, innovators need to be disagreeable ... They are people willing to take social risks-to do things that others might disapprove of.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell, 2008
Innovation requires openness, imagination, willingness to challenge assumptions, conscientiousness, and the courage to defy social norms.
In simple terms: Innovators must be open, disciplined, and willing to risk disapproval.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate bold ideas with disciplined execution.
Themes
creativity
discipline
risk-taking
social conformity
perseverance
Mood
determined
reflective
Type
motivational
philosophical
When to use this quote
- product development
- entrepreneurial ventures
- research projects
- team leadership
Key Concepts
cognitive flexibility
self‑regulation
social risk
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance dissent with teamwork?
- When is it worth risking social approval?
A Different Perspective
Disagreeable behavior can alienate collaborators and hinder adoption.
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