"Few people think more than two or three times a year; I have made an international reputation for myself by thinking once or twice a week."

This quote really boils down to the idea that most people don't take the time to deeply think about things regularly. The person speaking managed to stand out and gain recognition simply because they made a habit of thinking deeply more often than the average person. It’s a cheeky way of saying that success and recognition can come from just a little bit of extra effort in contemplation and analysis.

Historically, this was said by George Bernard Shaw, a playwright and critic known for his sharp wit and keen observations on society. Shaw was an influential figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and he often used humor and irony to make serious points about human nature and society. This quote reflects his belief that deep, reflective thinking is rare and can be incredibly powerful.

Think about Steve Jobs and the creation of the iPhone. Before the iPhone, mobile phones were clunky and not particularly user-friendly. Jobs didn't just accept the status quo; he thought deeply about what people really needed and wanted from their devices. He envisioned a sleek, intuitive phone that could also serve as a music player, a web browser, and more. By thinking deeply and challenging existing norms, Jobs and his team revolutionized the mobile phone industry. This is a prime example of how taking the time to think deeply and often can lead to groundbreaking innovations.

So, how can you apply this in your own life? Start by setting aside some time each week to think deeply about your work, your goals, or even just the world around you. It doesn't have to be hours on end—just carve out a little pocket of time where you can really focus without distractions. Ask yourself questions like, "Why are things done this way?" or "What could be improved?" This kind of reflective thinking can help you see opportunities and solutions that others might miss.

Imagine you're working on a project at your job. Most people might just follow the usual procedures and get it done, but what if you took a step back and thought about how the process could be improved? Maybe you find a way to automate a tedious task, saving your team hours of work each week. By applying a little extra thought, you’ve not only made your life easier but also added significant value to your team.

Picture this: You and your friends are planning a road trip. Everyone's focused on the usual stuff—who's bringing snacks, what the playlist will be like, and where you'll stop for gas. But you take a moment to think a bit deeper. You realize that by taking a slightly different route, you could pass through a beautiful national park that none of you have ever visited. Your friends are thrilled with the detour, and the trip becomes even more memorable. All it took was that extra bit of thinking ahead to turn an ordinary trip into something special.

The bottom line is, don't underestimate the power of deep thinking. It doesn't require monumental effort, just a little extra time and attention. And who knows? You might just make a name for yourself, too.