The concept of the “Adjacent Possible” reveals a crucial insight into innovation: the most transformative breakthroughs often emerge just beyond the current limits of technology and societal readiness. This concept, popularized by Steven Johnson in his book “Where Good Ideas Come From,” illustrates how innovations tend to materialize at the intersection of what’s technologically feasible and what society is prepared to embrace.

Imagine a spectrum where one axis represents technological capability—from proven technologies at one end to speculative, futuristic concepts at the other. On the perpendicular axis lies societal acceptance and adoption, ranging from widely adopted ideas to those considered too radical or ahead of their time.

The “Adjacent Possible” is that narrow band slightly beyond the current technological and societal frontier. It’s not a leap into science fiction or radical novelty but rather a creative combination of existing elements and ideas, pushed just enough to seem new and compelling. This sweet spot allows innovations to solve previously unrecognized problems or to address existing needs in a markedly improved way.

Electric cars have been around since the early 19th century, but it wasn’t until the late 20th and early 21st centuries that they began to gain significant traction. Innovators like Elon Musk with Tesla Motors didn’t just aim to create a slightly improved gasoline car; they envisioned an entirely new driving experience powered by electricity.

Tesla’s approach wasn’t purely about the technology of electric motors or batteries, which had already existed for decades. Instead, they reimagined the entire ecosystem of driving: from the sleek design and high-performance capabilities of their vehicles to the network of superchargers for convenient long-distance travel. This strategic alignment of technological feasibility with consumer demand for sustainable transportation positioned Tesla as a pioneer in the EV market.

Moreover, societal trends toward environmental sustainability and increasing concerns over climate change provided fertile ground for the adoption of electric vehicles. Governments incentivized EV purchases through subsidies and tax breaks, while consumers increasingly valued the lower operational costs and reduced carbon footprint offered by electric cars.

By targeting the “Adjacent Possible,” Tesla didn’t just create a better car; they catalyzed an entire industry shift toward electric mobility. Today, major automakers across the globe are investing heavily in electric vehicle development, aiming to capture a market that Tesla helped define.

Therefore, to find your next frontier of innovation, look just beyond what currently exists. Seek opportunities where technological capabilities are ripe for enhancement and societal acceptance is poised for change. This approach maximizes the chances of creating a new category, rather than merely improving upon existing ones. By navigating the “Adjacent Possible,” you can uncover groundbreaking ideas that reshape industries and define the future.