“Everything comes to him who hustles while he waits.”
- February 11, 1847 – October 18, 1931
- European American
- Inventor and businessman
- The “king of inventors” who obtained over 1,000 patents, including the practical application of the incandescent light bulb
Quote
“Everything comes to him who hustles while he waits.”
Explanation
In this quote, Edison underscores the importance of taking action and staying productive, even during times of uncertainty or when waiting for the right opportunity. He suggests that while patience is valuable, true success comes from actively preparing and working hard during those waiting periods. Rather than sitting idly and hoping for circumstances to change, Edison encourages us to use the waiting time wisely, putting in the effort that will eventually position us for success. This attitude of continuous hustle ensures that when opportunities arise, we are ready to seize them.
This message resonates strongly in today’s fast-paced world, where opportunities often require preparation and perseverance. For example, many entrepreneurs spend years building their skills, networks, and resources before they launch a successful business, often facing long periods of waiting or uncertainty. The phrase “hustles while he waits” reminds us that progress is made not just by waiting for the right moment, but by staying proactive and working on our goals in the meantime. It’s about constantly moving forward, even when immediate results aren’t visible.
On a personal level, this quote is a reminder that patience is not about passively waiting for success to come to us, but about actively preparing ourselves to take advantage of opportunities when they arise. Whether in career growth, learning new skills, or pursuing personal goals, Edison’s words encourage us to make the most of downtime and periods of uncertainty by staying focused and working towards our future goals. By hustling during these times, we ensure that we are always moving closer to success, regardless of external circumstances.