And yet, the brightness of the “light bulb moment” can become rather dark as soon as we try to figure out a first step to take. We can soon turn our focus to thoughts like:
- I’m not an expert so how far will I really get;
- I must not be committed enough because the last time I had a big idea I lost interest in a week;
- maybe someone else could do it but for me it’s just a silly pipe dream;
- that’s likely to cost a lot of money to really do it well; or
- great idea, but whose got the time...and probably an endless number of other thoughts to justify why the big idea is impossible.
Well, before you start feeling too deflated, let me remind you that as Thomas Edison was going through an amazingly long process of trial and error while inventing the light bulb in 1879, he said “I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work”.
Where would we be without Mr. Edison’s perseverance? We wouldn’t even be able to call a big idea a “light bulb moment”!
And Thomas Edison is not the only one whose had to try and try again, investing himself in so many ways to see a big idea through to completion. Truth is, it’s a pretty common experience to have to walk through some doubt and adversity. It’s focusing on the light at the end of the tunnel that keeps the doubt from overshadowing opportunity.
So, with the big idea intact and enthusiasm reinstated, the question still remains ‘where do I begin’?
And the answer is (drum roll please)... You begin with the end in mind. You got it. Steven Covey’s phrase is the one to keep front and centre as you begin to focus on your big idea.
Too lofty you say? Well, here’s my suggestion. Try one (or more) of these out as your first step:
- Take your big idea out for a test drive and day dream a bit (how’s that for a cheap yet priceless gift to yourself?)
- Get out the scissors and old magazines and create a collage, a visual image of your big idea
- Write your big idea down on an index card and keep it in your wallet or pocket or somewhere you’ll see it regularly. The card will remind you to get lost in your big idea even during the less-than-enthusiastic parts of the day
And if you’re ready to build even more momentum:
- Check out www.thomasedison.com/ to learn more about an inspired inventor
- Treat yourself to more of Steven Covey’s wisdom in his book Seven Habits of Highly Effective People
- Share your big idea to build the enthusiasm even more by contacting me at www.inspiredjourney.net/contact.cfm
These ideas don’t required a huge investment of time or money and the upside is that you’ll be investing in yourself and your big idea in a most amazing way! You’ll be breathing life into it.
Have fun, leave the doubts behind and try it on for size. Your big idea just might be a perfect fit.
Yours On Purpose,
Tara
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