Edison is still the world record holder for his 1094 patents. Here's just a few of his accomplishments:

1. The first to project a motion picture.
2. Developed the alkaline storage battery.
3. With his 1880 patent for the light bulb, he developed a company to power electricity to light the cities of the world. The company was called Edison Illuminating Company and was the first electrical utility to be owned by inventor. It later became General Electric Company.

At just nine years of age, Thomas was scolded and demeaned by his teacher. Did Thomas sink when he was thrown out of school? No. Did he rebel when told that his mother would homeschool him? No. Instead he took advantage of the opportunity to study under a patient mother who believed in him. He developed the characteristics of self-belief, curiosity, and perseverance which served him well throughout his many scientific experiments. Referring to the electric light bulb Edison said "I speak without exaggeration when I say I have constructed 3000 different theories in connection with the electric light, yet in only two cases did my experiments prove the truth of my theory."

Another accomplishment deserves special attention because it shows Edison's tenacity and creativity. Have you wondered how a deaf person could develop and perfect the phonograph? 

He attached the phonograph to a wooden frame and then bit into the wood, which allowed him to feel the vibrations and to somewhat "hear" the music. 

This week I invite you to reflect on the following:

1. Do you perceive yourself as having any deficit, disability, or disadvantage that you think is holding you back? For example: lack of education or computer skills, slow to learn, forgetful, over-stressed, lack of good health, depression, an "impossible boss", lack of time, energy or money, etc.

2. If your answer is Yes, is it grounded in reality or is it your perception of reality? In either case, do you want to do something about it?

3. If your answer is Yes, then what are you going to do about it and when are you going to do it?

4. If you manage people, is there someone on your team who would benefit from reflecting on the above three questions?

As a business and life coach, I am trained to help you and members of your team reveal and develop your strengths. This is exciting work for both of us. Together we can creatively overcome perceptions or obstacles that are holding you back. Let's have a conversation. Please call me 816-213-0125.