Some facts about ideas to be aware of

We all have some understanding of what the term ‘idea’ stands for. However, we tend to be oblivious to some of the facts affecting our ability to breed, nurture and execute good ideas.

According to Oxford and Cambridge dictionaries an idea is generally ‘a thought or suggestion as to a possible course of action’ or ‘a suggestion/plan for doing something’ etc. In this article the term ‘idea’ is considered as ‘any conception existing in the mind as a result of mental understanding, awareness, or activity which could lead to a positive and innovative solution’.?

Below are some facts about ‘idea(s)’ we should be aware of.

We must have good ideas to be a good problem solvers

Where there are problems there is need for solutions. Effective solutions are backed by quality ideas.

Ideas are born out of curiosity, knowledge and experiences

One must know and or experience a product, a system, a process etc. to be able to identify problematic areas. There is always room for improvement but only those who are observant and curious will notice. Therefore one must have a good knowledge of whatever he seeks to improve. Ability to identify problems or room for improvements require one not to settle for the status quo. This involves questioning the existing practice/product/knowledge seeking something better.

In the case of new areas/products etc., conducting initial survey improves the quality of your idea. For example, a literature survey on a new subject helps one to come up with the right research question. Similarly, a market survey for the demand of a given service or product will help streamline the idea behind such service/product.?

Ideas are volatile

Seeds of ideas can easily evaporate from your thoughts. So, write and keep records of good potential ideas that come to mind. Create your idea journal, visit it frequently to improve old ideas, add new and remove irrelevant ones. It takes time for some ideas to take full-shape and reach maturity for implementation. Update your idea-journal regularly.

Ideas expire with time the way technologies become less applicable with time

Procrastination is the major killer of good ideas. Be it is a product or research idea, if you delay long enough someone will beat you in the implementation (others are thinking too). This can make your idea less relevant because your question has now been answered or the solution is now out there.

Some people have constant and continuous shift of interest or focus. Ideas that they were confident about today, they lose interest in them few weeks after. If you are in this category, it will be challenging to frequently work on deeply thought ideas. To avoid this, whenever possible, start working on your idea as soon as it becomes clear.

Unless something significant is holding you, implement your ideas at the earliest. You do not need to see the finishing line in view, to start. Things will fall into place, and you will probably be surprised of how feasible it is during execution. In case you later find similar product or solution from your idea out there, do NOT stop. Look for ways to make yours stand out. Because only time and users will determine the best.

You do not have to do it alone

Excellent ideas usually require diverse set of skills and experts to implement. So do not be restricted to what you can possibly accomplish on your own. Find ways to engage and collaborate with other experts to bring your ideas into reality.

What are the characteristics of a good idea? (I ask ChatGPT this question)?

We should be able to know what to look for in ideas. There are several factors to consider when screening multiple ideas. Check the list below for a guide.

1.????Originality: Good ideas are often unique and differentiate themselves from what has already been done before.

2.????Feasibility: They should be possible to execute and not too far-fetched or unrealistic.

3.????Relevance: Good ideas are relevant to the problem or need they are attempting to solve.

4.????Clarity: They should be communicated in a clear and understandable way.

5.????Impactful: Good ideas have the potential to make a positive difference and bring about change.

6.????Scalability: A good idea should have the potential to be scaled up or down as per requirement.

7.????Sustainability: Good ideas should be long-lasting and able to succeed in the long term.

8.????Collaborative: Ideas that can bring people together and build community involvement often have the ability to be successful.

9.????Adaptable: Ideas that can be easily adapted to different contexts or situations have a greater chance of success.

10.?Testable: A good idea should be able to undergo tests and modifications so that it can be improved over time.

Sources of fresh ideas (I ask ChatGPT this question)

There are numerous ways to get inspirations for quality ideas. You only need to practice one or two, identify which suits you best.

1.????Brainstorming: Sit down with a blank sheet of paper and list all your thoughts and ideas for a given subject. This will help you come up with many potential ideas. Connect with other creative people and bounce ideas off each other. Attend networking events or join a creative group in your area.

2.????Research: Starting your research with a particular topic or in a particular field can often give you new insights that lead to new creative ideas.

3.????Mind mapping: This technique organizes ideas by connecting them with lines and arrows to show their relationships. This can be a useful tool for thinking creatively.

4.????Asking questions: Questioning the topic you’re interested in can be an effective way to get new insights and ideas.

5.????Stepping back: Taking a break from thinking about the problem or topic can give your mind a chance to work on the problem 'behind the scenes. Engage in meditation or mindfulness practices or simply take some time away from the computer or work.

6.????Associating: Think of related and unrelated words for a given category. Connection between words may inspire creative thinking.

7.????Collaborating: Working with other people on the problem or topic of interest can bring new perspectives and ideas.

8.????Watching, Reading & Listening: Consuming media or attending events related to your topic can give you fresh ideas to work with. Read books, watch movies, or browse through magazines to gain new perspectives and ideas. For example, reading science fiction or fantasy can expand your imagination.

9.????Keeping a notebook or digital journal: Write down ideas that spark your creativity and come back to them when you are feeling stuck.

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