Elbert Hubbard was an American writer, philosopher, and publisher in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He’s perhaps best known for establishing Roycroft, a community of artisans near Buffalo, New York, which aided in bringing the British Arts and Crafts movement to America. In addition to publishing two magazines of his own, Hubbard freelanced for other publications, often writing short-form pieces on the subjects of work, efficiency, and character. In this excerpt from such a piece, he reminds us that relying on knowledge and the spark of inspiration alone won’t facilitate innovation or acts of brilliance. We have to invest consistent effort in our ideas to bring them to life.