Note: The following article discusses various philosophical and business perspectives inspired by historical figures. Views expressed are those of the individual contributors and are not intended as professional advice or universally applicable solutions. Readers are encouraged to consider their personal context and consult relevant experts when making decisions based on the ideas presented.
Throughout history, innovative thinkers have shaped the way we approach problems, from business and technology to personal development and health. Their ideas have inspired countless entrepreneurs and professionals to challenge the status quo and push the boundaries of what’s possible. Yet, in a world of rapid change, we’re still learning how to apply their timeless wisdom to modern challenges. In this expert roundup, we explore how these influential figures continue to inspire contemporary thought leaders to think creatively, embrace new perspectives, and drive meaningful change in their fields. Their insights offer valuable lessons in resilience, adaptability, and forward-thinking leadership.
Embrace Creative Thinking
Albert Einstein’s profound wisdom has had a lasting impact on my approach to business and innovation. His iconic quote, “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, but expecting different results,” has become a guiding principle in my entrepreneurial journey.
Einstein’s emphasis on challenging conventional thinking and embracing creativity resonates deeply with me. In my business, I constantly ask myself: “Is this approach yielding the desired results?” If not, I’m not afraid to pivot and explore new avenues. This mindset has allowed me to stay adaptable and innovative in a rapidly changing business landscape.
Einstein’s ideas continue to shape innovation in my field by inspiring me to:
- Challenge assumptions: I encourage other entrepreneurs to question established norms and explore unconventional solutions.
- Foster creativity: I prioritize creating an environment that encourages experimentation, learning from failures, and embracing calculated risk-taking.
- Collaborate interdisciplinary: I believe that combining diverse perspectives and expertise can lead to groundbreaking innovations.
By embracing Einstein’s wisdom, I’ve been able to drive innovation, stay ahead of the curve, and build a business that’s resilient and adaptable. As I continue to navigate the complexities of the business world, I remain committed to Einstein’s principles, knowing that they will continue to inspire and guide me toward new heights of innovation and success.
Jimmy Clare, Professional Keynote Speaker, Podcaster, Live Stream Host, and Autism Advocate, CrazyFitnessGuy
Pursue Knowledge Relentlessly
Being Polish, I imagine it is no surprise that I found myself influenced by the work of Marie Sklodowska Curie. She was a pioneer in radioactivity that continues to shape modern science and medicine, and while my focus is in AI and SEO, I find that her relentless pursuit of knowledge, despite societal barriers, is a massive driving force in my own work and in my industry. Her emphasis on research integrity and data-driven discoveries serves as a model for AI ethics, ensuring that technological advancements remain grounded in rigorous scientific methods—something that the field as a whole is currently struggling with. Her legacy reminds innovators that true progress requires not only intelligence but also resilience and ethical responsibility.
Kate Kandefer, CEO, SEOwind
Discover Hidden Potential
Carl Jung has deeply shaped how I approach coaching and understanding personal growth. Jung’s emphasis on self-awareness; the idea that discovering hidden parts of ourselves (“the shadow”) and integrating them can lead us to greater authenticity, is key in guiding my clients toward deeper, sustainable change. For example, helping someone recognize patterns they might have been unaware of, acknowledging emotions they previously resisted, or embracing qualities they undervalued can make a profound impact.
In coaching today, Jung’s insights give us strategies like reflective journaling, shadow work exercises, and practices that promote self-exploration through symbolism or storytelling. These approaches help move beyond surface-level changes and build lasting shifts in perspective. His belief that true growth comes from a willingness to explore and accept our whole selves remains central to innovative personal development practices that empower people toward genuine transformation.
Bayu Prihandito, Psychology Consultant, Life Coach, Founder, Life Architekture
Connect Art and Science
Modern invention happens because of what da Vinci left behind. Da Vinci’s connection of art and science creates an interdisciplinary problem-solving ethos that transcends boundaries. In the 21st century, a vast technological world where art collides with commerce, industry, manufacturing, and more, such a sensibility will champion transformative, avant-garde solutions to problems across all fields. He champions the feats of engineering and architecture, medicine, and more, where literally any solution born of creative endeavor makes sense for the most effective outcome.
Chris Hunter, Director of Customer Relations, ServiceTitan
Treat the Whole Person
Hippocrates has had the greatest influence on my work. His belief that nature holds the key to healing aligns with the core principles of treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms. He emphasized the importance of balance, recognizing that lifestyle, nutrition, and natural remedies all play a role in overall well-being. His philosophy that “food is medicine” reinforces the idea that true healing comes from within and that supporting the body’s natural processes can lead to lasting health improvements. His approach encourages looking beyond temporary solutions and focusing on long-term wellness through a combination of natural interventions and mindful living.
His ideas continue to inspire innovation in how personalized care is structured, ensuring that education and individualized treatment remain at the forefront. As research evolves, the connection between plant-based solutions and overall wellness is becoming more widely recognized, reinforcing his belief in nature’s role in health. His influence pushes the field toward a more integrative model, where traditional wisdom meets scientific advancements to create effective, customized health strategies. This approach not only improves patient outcomes but also shifts the conversation toward a more holistic understanding of healing, where prevention, balance, and natural solutions work together to support long-term well-being.
Aspen Noonan, CEO, Elevate Holistics
Think Differently
The historical figure who has most influenced my work is Alan Turing. His concepts weren’t just about computation, they were about thinking differently. As someone deeply involved in SEO, software development, media purchases, and digital marketing, I constantly find myself going back to Turing’s fundamental question: Can machines think? This question drives so much of what we do in digital marketing.
In software development, Turing’s influence is even clearer. We’re building increasingly sophisticated systems that learn, adapt, and make decisions. AI-powered tools are becoming essential for everything from content creation to ad optimization. We’re always looking for ways to incorporate these technologies into our services to give our clients a competitive edge. Turing’s legacy is a constant source of inspiration for me and my teams. His insights push us to see technology as a tool for understanding and improving the human experience. This idea shapes our approach to innovation.
Paul DeMott, Chief Technology Officer, Helium SEO
Invest in Long-Term Value
Warren Buffett has influenced the way I look at real estate, especially when it comes to long-term value and strategic investment. He always emphasized buying assets with intrinsic worth and holding them for the long run, which applies directly to property investment. The housing market can be unpredictable, but focusing on quality locations and strong fundamentals rather than short-term trends makes all the difference.
Sebastian Wade, Real Estate Consultant, Eden Emerald Buyers Agent
Scale Efficiency for All
James Watt has significantly influenced our line of work. Watt redefined energy measurement, which makes his influence unavoidable in electricity markets. His introduction of horsepower gave people a way to compare power output, and that same principle applies when helping customers understand their energy consumption. A 10 kWh battery storage system reduces grid dependence by 40%, yet many homeowners underestimate their actual usage until they see clear data.
Scaling efficiency is the key to smarter energy use. Watt’s steam engine upgrades weren’t just for large factories—they made energy more practical for homes and small businesses. Home solar follows the same logic. A $12,000 system might seem expensive at first, but with $1,800 in yearly savings, it pays for itself within seven years. People make better financial choices when they see clear numbers.
Benjamin Tom, Digital Marketing Expert and Utility Specialist, Electricity Monster
Educate Through Adventure
The historical figure who has most influenced my work is Jacques Cousteau. His pioneering spirit, passion for marine conservation, and ability to translate the wonders of the ocean into accessible stories have profoundly shaped my approach. Cousteau’s innovative use of technology, like the Aqua-Lung, not only revolutionized underwater exploration and snorkeling but also emphasized the importance of bringing the hidden world of the ocean to the surface for everyone to appreciate. His legacy of combining education with adventure continues to inspire my work today.
We strive to carry forward his mission by offering marine biology-based eco-tours that educate and inspire our guests, particularly families and young learners. Our snorkeling experiences, inspired by Cousteau’s adventurous spirit, allow guests to immerse themselves in the marine environment and gain a firsthand appreciation of ocean life. Like Cousteau, we believe that fostering a sense of wonder and respect for the ocean can lead to meaningful conservation efforts. His approach to storytelling and education remains a guiding force as we develop new ways to connect with our audience and promote marine conservation through interactive and memorable experiences.
Christopher Farley, Owner, Flippin’ Awesome Adventures
Prioritize Reliability and Conservation
Efficient plumbing owes a lot to Thomas Crapper, who popularized the modern flush toilet. While he didn’t invent it, he revolutionized its efficiency with the ballcock mechanism, reducing water waste. That same principle applies to modern plumbing—every upgrade should focus on reliability and resource conservation. Installing dual-flush toilets in homes cuts water usage by up to 60%, which lowers household bills and eases strain on infrastructure.
Thinking ahead keeps plumbing systems reliable long-term. Crapper’s focus on durable materials reminds us that using high-quality PEX over standard PVC extends pipe life by at least 20 years. Customers appreciate cost-effective solutions that last, which is why educating them on efficient fixtures leads to more sustainable choices.
Caleb John, Director, Exceed Plumbing
Innovate Based on Performance
The historical figure that has the most influence on my work is Karsten Solheim, the founder of PING. He changed the way people think about golf equipment by bringing innovation that made the game more accessible. His engineering background allowed him to see problems in club design that others overlooked. He studied how weight distribution and balance could improve performance, leading to the creation of perimeter-weighted putters and irons. His work proved that better equipment could help golfers of all skill levels, not just professionals.
His influence continues today because he showed that golf products should evolve based on science and performance, not just history and tradition. In our company, we take a similar approach by designing training tools that help golfers improve their game no matter where they practice. Our limited-flight golf balls mimic true ball flight, and our putting greens create a realistic surface for at-home training. Karsten Solheim’s mindset of solving actual problems in the sport inspires the way I think about product innovation, making golf more enjoyable and accessible for everyone.
Katie Breaker, Sales Director, BirdieBall
Plan for Future Needs
Buckminster Fuller saw efficiency as a guiding principle, which is why his geodesic dome remains an inspiration. Stronger than conventional buildings while using 40% less material, this concept proves that sustainability doesn’t require excess. WeatherSolve applies that thinking to fabric tension structures that protect crops, machinery, and event spaces without unnecessary steel reinforcements.
Long-term resilience requires more than just innovative design. Fuller’s belief in planning for future needs plays into how WeatherSolve works with municipalities and businesses to implement weather protection systems that last decades. A well-engineered tension structure might cost $500,000 up front, but saving over $1 million in maintenance over 30 years makes the investment a no-brainer.
Barbara Robinson, Marketing Manager, Weather Solve
Challenge the Status Quo
If I had to name one historical figure who’s influenced my work the most, it would have to be Nikola Tesla. His ideas were not just about electricity, they were about pushing boundaries and seeing what was possible beyond what people accepted at the time. That mindset still shapes how we approach electrical work today.
Tesla’s work with alternating current (AC) is the reason we can power entire cities efficiently. Every time we install or upgrade a switchboard, we’re building on principles he pioneered over a century ago. Smart home technology is another area where his thinking applies. He envisioned wireless energy transfer long before anyone else took it seriously, and today, we’re seeing pieces of that come to life with wireless charging pads and remote-controlled lighting. Over the past year, we’ve installed 39.2% more smart systems than the year before, showing just how much electrical work is shifting toward automation, something Tesla predicted.
What I take from Tesla isn’t just his technical brilliance but his willingness to challenge the status quo. In this industry, staying ahead means adapting, learning, and being open to new tech.
Jason Rowe, Founder & Electrician, Hello Electrical
Put the Customer First
Peter Drucker shaped how I approach marketing and growth. His focus on customer needs over company ego changed how businesses scale. He said, “The aim of marketing is to know and understand the customer so well the product or service fits them and sells itself.” That idea cuts through noise.
Growth marketing relies on the same principle. Products aren’t pushed. Problems are solved. Data reveals what people want. The job is to listen and act. Drucker’s belief in adaptability also applies. Markets shift. Consumer behavior evolves. Companies that fail to change disappear. Retail, finance, and tech prove this repeatedly.
ecoATM grows by applying these principles. People want convenience, sustainability, and trust. Recycling phones isn’t forced on them. The process is made easy, fast, and rewarding. That’s how innovation sticks. Drucker believed execution mattered more than ideas. A strategy means nothing without action. Testing, iterating, and optimizing drive real impact.
He also emphasized leadership. Growth isn’t about chasing metrics. Success comes from a team aligned with the mission. Strong ideas emerge when people have the confidence to take initiative.
Drucker’s work isn’t theory. It’s a blueprint. Customer-first thinking, adaptability, execution, and leadership—those ideas built today’s best companies. They will shape the next generation too.
Alec Loeb, VP of Growth Marketing, EcoATM
Balance Empathy and Fairness
One historical figure who’s deeply influenced my approach to law is Abraham Lincoln. His commitment to justice, integrity, and fairness was not just in his political life but in his legal practice as well. Lincoln’s ability to balance empathy with a firm hand in his legal cases left an impression on me early in my career.
Would you rather be known as a lawyer who simply wins cases, or one who wins them with honor and empathy? Lincoln’s method to law taught me the importance of not just knowing the law, but truly understanding people. He shaped my view of legal practice, where my work is not just about being right, it’s about making a difference in people’s lives.
Today, the same principles of fairness and empathy continue to guide how we handle cases at our company. Lincoln’s legacy is still alive in the way we navigate complex legal issues, ensuring that every client is treated with respect and care.
Marcus Denning, Senior Lawyer, MK Law
Build Trust Through Design
Paul Rand’s approach to design has influenced how I think about branding and patient experience in dental tourism. He believed that simplicity, clarity, and consistency were the foundations of great design, and I apply those same principles to how we build trust with patients.
Patients are not just booking a dental procedure. They are making a life-changing decision in a foreign country. If their journey feels complicated or inconsistent, doubt creeps in. That’s why every part of our process, from the first consultation to post-treatment care, is designed to be seamless. Our website is easy to navigate, our communication is clear, and our partner clinics maintain strict quality standards.
Rand once said, “Design is the silent ambassador of your brand.” In our case, trust is our brand. Whether it’s the way we structure our consultations or the transparency in our pricing, everything is built to make patients feel secure, informed, and confident in their choice.
Odellé Joubert, Chief Operating Officer, Dentaly Go
Have Your Say
Alignment with the UN SDGs
- Promotes innovation and sustainable solutions (SDG 9)
- Encourages responsible consumption and production (SDG 12)
- Fosters inclusive, sustainable economic growth (SDG 8)
- Advocates for good health and well-being (SDG 3)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Related
The Best Ways Holiday Connections Shift Away Materialism
Have you ever noticed how small gestures can feel bigger than expensive gifts? This roundup explores why meaningful, personal acts are redefining holiday celebrations and shows how you can connect more deeply.
Continue reading The Best Ways Holiday Connections Shift Away Materialism
Megan Macaulay on Journeys of Growth, Storytelling, and Lasting Impact
Have you ever wondered how ancient graffiti, cosmic patterns, and personal experiences shape a storyteller’s voice? Discover how Megan Clodfelter weaves these threads into her unique literary vision in the full interview.
Continue reading Megan Macaulay on Journeys of Growth, Storytelling, and Lasting Impact
Jason P. Armstrong on Leadership, Reform, and Advancing Community-Centered Public Safety
Ever wondered how one person can transform tense, divided communities without resorting to conflict? Discover the leadership strategies, lessons, and real-life experiences that make lasting reform possible.
K.J. Poesy on Poetry, Emotional Depth, and Transforming Heartache into Art
Have you ever wondered how a simple toaster could spark an entire poetic journey? Discover how K.J. Poesy transforms everyday moments into powerful, heartfelt poetry in this revealing interview.
Continue reading K.J. Poesy on Poetry, Emotional Depth, and Transforming Heartache into Art
Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.
Other Highlights
Looking for something?
Type in your keyword(s) below and click the “Search” button.
Helpful Shortcuts
More Stories
Print and Digital Magazine
Don’t just read about greatness. Own it!
About Us
The World’s Best Magazine is a print and online publication that highlights the extraordinary. It is your passport to a universe where brilliance knows no bounds. Celebrating outstanding achievements in various fields and industries, we curate and showcase the exceptional, groundbreaking, and culturally significant. Our premier laurels, The World’s Best Awards, commend excellence through a unique process involving subject matter experts and a worldwide audience vote. Explore with us the pinnacle of human achievement and its intersection with diversity, innovation, creativity, and sustainability.
We recognise and honour the Traditional Owners of the land upon which our main office is situated. We extend our deepest respects to Elders past, present, and emerging. We celebrate the stories, culture, and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders from all communities who also reside and work on this land.
Disclaimer: The World’s Best does not provide any form of professional advice. All views and opinions expressed in each post are the contributor’s own. Whereas we implement editorial policies and aim for content accuracy, the details shared on our platforms are intended for informational purposes only. We recommend evaluating each third-party link or site independently, as we cannot be held responsible for any results from their use. In all cases and with no exceptions, you are expected to conduct your own research and seek professional assistance as necessary prior to making any financial, medical, personal, business, or life-changing decisions arising from any content published on this site. All brands and trademarks mentioned belong to their respective owners. Your continued use of our site means you agree with all of these and our other site policies, terms, and conditions. For more details, please refer to the links below.
About | Advertise | Awards | Blogs | Contact | Disclaimer | Submissions | Subscribe | Privacy | Publications | Terms | Winners
The World’s Best: A Magazine That’s All About What’s Great | theworldsbestmagazine.com | Copyright ⓒ 2022-2025
Let’s connect
Discover more from The World's Best
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
The World's Best 