Wilbur Wright turned 36 years old.
Just four years earlier, on May 30, 1899, he wrote to the Smithsonian Institution asking for publications about the subject of flight.
"I am about to begin a systematic study of the subject in preparation for practical work to which I expect to devote what time I can spare from my regular business," he wrote. "I wish to obtain such papers as the Smithsonian Institution has published on this subject, and if possible, a list of other works in print in the English language. I am an enthusiast, but not a crank in the sense that I have some pet theories as to the proper construction of a flying machine. I wish to avail myself of all that is already known and then if possible add my mite to help on the future worker who will attain final success."
Wilbur didn't waste energy rediscovering information. He efficiently drew on the experiences and research of others and saved time and money.
For the first couple of years, the brothers worked on their gliders part time, and continued to operate their printing business and their bicycle shop. But as they grew closer to a solution, they hired Charlie Taylor to work fulltime in the shop.
By his 36th birthday, Wilbur knew that flight was in sight. What started as a part-time project became a fulltime obsession.
It's never too late to become obsessed about your passion. Grandma Moses
began to paint in her late 70s and today her primitive-style paints are
well known. What are you waiting for? Turn your dream into an obsession
by your next birthday.
Soar to Success The Wright Way motivational speaker
Soar to Success the Wright Way © 2003-2004 by Jim Meisner, Jr.