Non-operating activities include interest expenses, tax rates, and large non-cash items such as depreciation and amortization. By removing the non-operating effects, EBITDA gives investors the ability to focus on the profitability of their operations.
Thomas Edison once speculated: Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration.
PS. Hey, I did not realize that my response is not entirely related to the Edison quote. What he means is: Although genius may be comprised of hard work, it is not wholly attainable without motivation. Inspiration is something that initiates/propels/drives/motivates you to achieve genius and the rest is hard work.