And I also trust that there's more than one way to do something.
The words of Dennis Muren fall like a calm but steady river of wisdom: “And I also trust that there’s more than one way to do something.” Here, in their quiet simplicity, lies a teaching of great depth. For he speaks not only of the work of art, design, or invention, but of life itself. There is no single path carved for all men and women, no single method that guarantees greatness. The world is vast, the mind is vast, and the ways of reaching truth and beauty are as countless as the stars above.
The ancients knew this truth well. Did not Socrates teach through dialogue, while Heraclitus wrote in riddles, and Plato in grand allegories? All sought wisdom, yet each walked a different road. Likewise, the builders of the pyramids, the temples of Greece, the cathedrals of Europe—all sought to glorify the divine, but their hands shaped stone in ways as different as sand and snow, each revealing beauty in its own manner. Muren, a master of visual effects, echoes this eternal understanding: artistry and creation do not bow to a single method, but flourish in diversity.
To trust that there is more than one way is also to renounce the tyranny of perfectionism. Many are crippled by the belief that there is only one “right” solution, one “correct” path, and in their fear of missing it, they falter and do nothing. But wisdom declares: there are many routes to the summit, many ways to solve the problem. What matters is not rigid adherence to one method, but the courage to begin, to experiment, to learn. Thus Muren’s words are not merely about art—they are a philosophy of freedom.
History offers us luminous examples. Consider the quest to reach the New World. Columbus sailed westward across the Atlantic, while others dreamed of routes around Africa or across Asia. Though different paths were taken, all reshaped the world. Or think of Edison and Tesla, whose visions of electricity diverged—one in direct current, the other in alternating current—yet both left behind legacies that power our lives even now. These examples reveal that truth and innovation are not bound to one trail; many minds, many ways, can arrive at greatness.
The deeper meaning of Muren’s words is one of trust—trust not only in methods, but in people. For if there is more than one way, then the wisdom of others must be honored. One person may labor with calculation, another with intuition, and both may succeed. To dismiss another’s path is arrogance; to embrace it is humility and wisdom. This is the spirit that allows collaboration, community, and growth. For when we open ourselves to many ways, we open ourselves to the full breadth of human genius.
The lesson is clear: do not be trapped by the illusion of a single solution. Whether in art, in work, or in life, remember that the road is not narrow but wide, and that there are countless ways to reach the goal. Let this knowledge free you from fear, from rigidity, from the chains of comparison. Instead, walk boldly, knowing that your way may be different yet no less true. And honor the paths of others, for they too may carry wisdom you do not yet see.
Practical actions follow: when facing a challenge, remind yourself that there is no single answer. Try, fail, and try again, knowing each attempt is a path of its own. Learn from the methods of others, even if they differ from your own, for diversity of approach is strength. Cultivate humility, knowing your way is one among many, and courage, knowing your way still matters. Above all, trust in the creative abundance of life itself, which always offers more than one door, more than one step, more than one way to move forward.
TSCao Thai Son
Muren’s quote really highlights the power of perspective. It’s comforting to know that there’s no single way to achieve something, as it opens up room for creative solutions. But I wonder, do we sometimes use this idea as an excuse to avoid commitment to one method? How do we ensure we’re exploring multiple approaches in a way that’s productive, rather than getting stuck in a cycle of indecision?
NHNgoc Nguyen Hoai
I love the idea of having flexibility in how we approach problems, as Muren suggests. It’s liberating to think that there’s not just one correct answer. However, does this mindset always work in high-pressure situations, where clear and concise action is needed? How do we balance the freedom of multiple approaches with the need for speed and clarity, especially in fast-paced environments?
HMPhan Nguyen Ha My
The idea that there’s more than one way to do something really resonates with me. It feels like permission to experiment and not fear failure. But I also wonder—how do we discern the most efficient or effective method when there are so many options? Does the variety of choices make us more innovative, or does it sometimes prevent us from making decisions? Can we ever have too many ways to approach a task?
PVThuy Duong Phan Vu
I agree with Muren’s perspective because it opens up so many possibilities for creativity and problem-solving. But I wonder if there are times when having multiple ways of doing something can be overwhelming. Does it create more options, or does it just add complexity to the process? At what point do we need to settle on one approach to move forward with confidence, instead of constantly questioning other ways?
HNTruong MN Duy Hai Duy Tien - Ha Nam
Dennis Muren’s statement is so refreshing because it challenges the idea of a one-size-fits-all approach. It reminds me that innovation thrives when we embrace multiple methods. But is there a danger in becoming too attached to the belief that there are always alternatives? Could it lead to indecision or a lack of focus? In some situations, don’t we need a clear, singular path to follow to achieve success?