I live in a world thirsty for good ideas. It is the rarest of the rare among those working with start-ups, innovation plays, and transformation. Incremental improvements can be discovered through disciplined exploration. While interesting, these are not what I am looking for in good ideas. The ideas I long to see are different. They change the way we see something. The impact the experience we have in that space. Once experienced, they often seem obvious, only the wise know that they are gems that deserve care, nurture, and respect.
When one shows up, fulfilling what we long to see, explore, and understand, in my experience you can feel how special it is. I have come to appreciate that not everyone will see and experience what I do. I have learned to temper my excitement when the intent of understand the reactions of others. To date the most common reactions other that excitement fall into one of two categories. First, the individual does not see the idea as a “good” on. In their mind, the idea is interesting but nothing more. The second reaction is one of hurdles. It is as if they are not sure how good the idea is but if it is good, then the list of obstacles, problems, and risks are endless!
Cynically, the first group think that only the empowered can see into the future. The latter group can only see the dark side. What they share is a belief that the idea is not worth pursuing.
I am the first to acknowledge that not all possibilities turn out to be great ideas. Many do not work! Others have unintended consequences that reduces the positive impact that the idea would otherwise bring.
As I wrestle with some new ideas, I realize that the psalmist sent a message across the generations as a reminder. “Sunrise breaks through the darkness for good people – God’s grace and mercy and justice!” (Psalm 112.04) While not everyone will see something at first, every member of the family deserves to experience the possibility if it works.
