“Waste is worse than loss. The time is coming when every person who lays claim to ability will keep the question of waste before him constantly. The scope of thrift is limitless.”
- 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
“Waste is worse than loss. The time is coming when every person who lays claim to ability will keep the question of waste before him constantly. The scope of thrift is limitless.”
Explanation
In this quote, Edison emphasizes that waste—whether it be of time, resources, or effort—is a more detrimental problem than loss. Loss, while unfortunate, can often be recovered or mitigated, but waste, which results from inefficiency or disregard, is ultimately more harmful because it represents an opportunity missed forever. Edison believed that those who aspire to success or claim to have the ability to make a difference should always be mindful of waste, as it stands in the way of maximum productivity and progress. He highlights the idea that being thrifty—in the sense of making the most of what you have—is a critical skill, and one that will only grow in importance as the world continues to innovate and progress.
This message is particularly relevant in today’s world, where efficiency and sustainability are at the forefront of conversations around business practices, technology, and environmental concerns. In industries ranging from manufacturing to software development, reducing waste in time, labor, and materials leads not only to cost savings, but also to greater innovation and sustainability. For instance, the rise of lean manufacturing and sustainable practices has shown that being aware of waste—whether in production lines or in our personal time management—can unlock immense potential for growth and improvement. Edison’s quote encourages individuals to constantly ask themselves, “How can we do this better and more efficiently?” and apply this thinking to everything they do.
On a personal level, this quote invites us to consider how we spend our time and resources. Whether it’s in our work, studies, or daily routines, there is always room for improvement in how we allocate our efforts. Edison’s words challenge us to think more carefully about how we use our time, the tools we have at our disposal, and how we can minimize waste to make the most out of every moment. Thrift, in this context, isn’t just about saving money—it’s about valuing our time, our potential, and our resources, and recognizing that we have the power to make a positive, lasting impact by being efficient and mindful in everything we do.
