Innovation

People who are known for their innovative work have the experience that they did their discoveries in unexpected moments.
The characteristics of these moments are relaxation, being in a different environment and free time. Moments to meet people, to talk to them with a free spirit. They made sure to build in such moments. That is how their unusual minds were created. Through this attitude they could make their discoveries, for instance Einstein with his general theory of relativity, Kolff (of Dutch origin) with the kidney machine. In The Netherlands people were not really enthusiastic about his discovery. Kolff went to the US, where his machine became a tremendous success.
The innovations are of course based on discipline, by devoting and increasing knowledge and expertise, again and again, over and over, more and more.
The US is known world wide for innovations in all kinds of fields.
Innovation needs investments. The Dutch were and are real large investors in the US. First in agricultural land, later in American petroleum, in light manufacturing and also in mining, chemicals, food, banking, retailing, insurance and real estate. The Netherlands is a wealthy country that invests heavily in de US.
We can safely say that the American – Dutch relation is a win –win relationship.

In what way could you use the innovation experience of 400 years American - Dutch business roots and relations for innovation in your company?
How can you create the preconditions for yourself to come up with innovation in your work, and/or life?