Be a Rebel: 7 Tips for Radical Achievement from Albert Einstein

People love a good rebellion story. From Alexander Hamilton to Luke Skywalker, rebel heroes inspire us.

The idea that we can rise up, against all odds, has captured the imagination of generations.

But day-to-day social pressures are a powerful force. It’s extremely difficult to escape the status quo and go against the grain of our culture. Too often this results in a feeling of being stuck or trapped. Have you ever had this feeling?

Fear not! You can make your escape by learning from smart-guy poster child Albert Einstein.

That’s right, Einstein was a rebel. In fact, his disregard for established thinking was a huge contributor to his revolutionary scientific accomplishments.

“Other scientists had come close to his insight, but they were too confined by the dogmas of the day.” ~ Walter Isaacson, The World Needs More Rebels Like Einstein

So, consider the tips from Einstein below and spark your own rebellion!

Try New Things

“Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new.” ~ Albert Einstein

Einstein made plenty of mistakes but his successes are what we remember. To make real progress, you have to step outside of your comfort zone. Try new things. Make mistakes. All in the name of progress.

Question Authority

“Blind belief in authority is the greatest enemy of truth.” ~ Albert Einstein

Don’t take things at face-value. Develop your own understanding and be open to the fact that authority figures can be wrong too.

Seek Truth, Not Popularity

“What is right is not always popular and what is popular is not always right.” ~ Albert Einstein

Sometimes, being right will make you unpopular. Be right anyway. Popularity is cheap and temporary. Strive for quality and truth despite the opinions of critics.

Run Towards Problems

“In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity” ~ Albert Einstein

People who create the most valuable solutions are often those who chase the most difficult problems. Don’t be intimidated by big challenges because they represent the greatest potential.

Be Persistent

“You never fail until you stop trying.” ~ Albert Einstein

Be patient. Keep going. Things of great value often take years to build. But in the end, it will be worth it.

Recognize When You’re Wrong

“The measure of intelligence is the ability to change.” ~ Albert Einstein

When the facts change or you’re proven wrong, don’t be stubborn. Don’t let a mistake waste any more time, or create additional mistakes. Own your failure and move on.

Be Optimistic

“I’d rather be an optimist and a fool than a pessimist and right.” ~ Albert Einstein

At the end of the day, we will experience successes and failures. But, the attitude we take will determine how we experience the world.

So strive, fail, succeed and smile at the possibilities of the future.

See Also: Amazing Life Lessons You Can Learn From Albert Einstein: Part Deux