In every field, innovation is what propels us forward, and adjustment is what keeps us from falling behind. But too often, what we see being called “innovation” is merely an adjustment to existing ideas, systems, or models. We need to understand the critical difference between the two if we want to achieve real transformation and growth.

Let’s start with a compelling example from the field of health and wellness. Glenn Doman, the founder of the Institute for the Achievement of Human Potential (IAHP), revolutionized our understanding of brain development in children. His work wasn’t about tweaking or adjusting existing therapies—it was about innovating a whole new way of thinking about how the brain can grow and develop. Doman’s innovative methods, based on decades of research, were about breaking through existing limitations and finding entirely new pathways to healing and development. It wasn’t just an improvement; it was a radical departure from conventional methods. That’s true innovation.

In contrast, many so-called "innovations" today are nothing more than adjustments to what’s already been done. It’s easy to confuse the two. Whether it’s the way we market, the products we create, or the services we offer, too many times businesses or professionals will simply fine-tune an existing idea or model rather than challenge it entirely. These are adjustments—they may work for a time, but they never lead to real growth or lasting transformation. Adjustments may keep things going, but they don’t change the game.

This concept isn’t just limited to healthcare or brain development—it applies to every field, including business. In our business of creating wellness communities, for instance, a lot of what we see as "innovation" is really just adjustment. Maybe we tweak our marketing strategy, add a few new features to our product, or improve the customer experience by 10%. These are important, of course, but they’re not innovations. True innovation requires a new approach—a change in how we think, how we see the world, and how we do things. The concept of Unexpected Client Delight is an innovation that we did, a radical departure from customer service and relationship management.

If we want real transformation and growth, we need to stop settling for incremental improvements and start seeking out innovative ways to completely rethink what we’re doing. Whether it’s in business, health, or any other field, we need to ask ourselves: Are we simply adjusting what already exists, or are we genuinely innovating to create something new?

Innovation is what leads to breakthroughs. It’s about challenging the status quo, taking risks, and discovering new ways to create value. Adjustment, while useful, keeps us within the boundaries of what’s already known.

So, the next time you hear someone touting their latest “innovation,” ask yourself: Is it really an innovation, or just an adjustment? The real game-changers are the innovators—the ones who change the entire conversation, not just tweak it.