Apr
The Power of an Idea
I used to teach a class called the Power of One Idea. The usual audience consisted of alcoholics and addicts just learning to live without chemicals. Most were still shaky and confused. As a result, I wrote my lesson to be short and simple.
What is the power of one idea? Very simply, it is an idea which is so bold and often so simple that it is transformative. This idea has within it the seed of its own fulfillment. It is indeed a seed that can grow into a great harvest for the one who uses it rightly.
The idea has to be handled with care. It has to be protected and nurtured. In other words, you have to make yourself the right person to use your idea. You have to study the idea, learn how it can work and how to make it work. Then you have to start working with it. Even if you do not have everything you think you need, you must start with what you have. The idea will not last indefinitely. You must use it or lose it.
An important thing is to keep at it. It is a good idea to keep silent about your idea. You don’t need to be hassled by curiosity-seeking acquaintances wasting your time. Do not make your business their business. Likewise, be diligent and persistent. Focus on the work at hand. Do not waste time idling when there is work to be done. Dissipation is as bad as interference. Many a good idea has gone sour wile its recipient occupied a bar stool.
The idea may not hatch in a day, or a week, or even a month. It may take more time. The opportunity to use it may not appear for weeks or months or longer. Patience and persistence are necessary to bring your idea to life. You have to nurture it to keep it “warm” for however long it takes.
Hermann the Cheruscan had an idea that kept the Romans out of Germany.
Thomas Edison had an idea that created light from electricity.
Marconi had an idea that let words be transmitted through the atmosphere.
Maybe your idea is not a great victory or a great invention. It maybe as small as your own restaurant, your own hobby shop or even a side job to make extra money. Size and scope vary from person to person, but the satisfaction is huge.
One idea is all it takes, but it needs you to make it happen. Your one idea begins with you.
