During the spring in Texas, we have bluebonnet fields. They are a sight to behold. I think of ideas like bluebonnets in full bloom. The power of ideas in full bloom is a sight to behold.
This post looks at the “idea” portion of the formula below:
(intent + idea) x (belief + action) = creation
Ideas come and go, like a fog or mist. I know there are times when I’m aware of an idea, but immediately trash it for one reason or another.
I need to stop trashing ideas.
The better way is to write ideas down. Explore their value. As well, ask questions about what it would be to bring them into the world.
Many authors have explored themes around ideas. Two I enjoy are Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi and Edward De Bono. However, one author stands out when it comes to ideas and teams.
The power of ideas
Ed Catmull wrote “Creativity, Inc.” and he write about how ideas can be acted on by teams.
Ed wrote, “Getting the right people and the right chemistry is more important than getting the right idea.” (p. 74). I tend to agree with Ed.
If you’ve ever experienced a group discussion that seemed like it could last forever, you know what that statement means.
Generating ideas might be easy for one person. Giving those ideas substance is more challenging.
In addition to chemistry in teamwork, there needs to be time for ideas to grow. Adding sticky notes to a whiteboard is one thing and the other is exploring “what if” around the notes.
My suggestion is to find time to explore ideas. Then pair the ideas with the intent to make them come alive.