🚀 The Book in 3 Sentences

In the 1700s, ships couldn't tell their longitude accurately, which claimed many lives. John Harrison invented the first reliable chronometer (watch that could be used at sea) by working on his own for more than two decades, which contrasted with most other attempts to determine longitude based on moon and star positions. He overcame institutional bias (e.g. results of his tests declared as flukes) by staying the course, but also with the help of others such as his son, who sought an audience with the King to protest unfair treatment.

By then, some of his competitors and judges were closing in on an alternative solution.

🎨 Impressions

I will never look at a clock/watch the same way after reading this book.

How I Discovered It

It was in TED's winter reading list: a collection of 56 books recommended by TED speakers http://t.ted.com/jy0l3w8

Who Should Read It?

Anyone interested in history (especially the history of science and British history), and anyone interested in seeing the power of creativity

☘️ How the Book Changed Me

<aside> 💡 How my life / behaviour / thoughts / ideas have changed as a result of reading the book.

</aside>

I learned five big important lessons:

• Progress is non-linear. We can make a sudden breakthrough after chipping away for years or even decades.
• Many things we take for granted today were actually big puzzles centuries back.
• Relentlessly high standards can have benefits and costs. (You produce a fantastic product, but competitors can catch up)
• Good work, politicking and keeping an eye on one's competition help produce success.
• If your work passes the smell test, it's fine if your work doesn't conform to societal norms.

Other Themes (may be related to the five big important lessons)