1% Inspiration, 99% Perspiration

“Greatness is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration” -Thomas Edison

This quote adapted from Thomas Edison appeals to me for a number of reasons.  Firstly, as a Maths graduate, I appreciate the correct use of percentages (I always try my hardest but have never succeeded in actually giving 110 percent...).  But also because it gives an insight into the function of inspiration.   

Inspiration is a catalyst.  It provides the impetus
for people to unlock the greatness within.

This is what I would love to achieve. 

I want to inspire people to do something great.

But as one person, what can I do?

Inspired to Inspire

I am a normally cynical person.  The grass is always greener.  But nowhere was the grass greener on Friday night than in Stratford’s Olympic stadium.

It was a great ceremony to kick off what I have no doubt will be a great 16 days of sport. 

The Olympics tagline is ‘Inspire a Generation’.  Today I ran to the big screen in Victoria Park and, on arriving covered in sweat, was asked “did you run here?” by an incredulous (if slightly disgusted) steward.

“Yes,” I answered, “I’ve been watching the Olympics and I have been inspired.”  The buzz in London tells me the effect is widespread.

But, ever the cynic, I worry.  Seb Coe and his team won this Olympics largely on their pledge of an Olympics ‘Legacy’.  But the struggle to secure a permanent occupant for the Olympic stadium may turn out to be symbolic of a more general failure to extend the Games’ inspirational impact beyond this incredible fortnight.

This must not happen.  It can not be allowed to happen.  And so I want to do my part.  I have been inspired to inspire.