An Idea is Just an Idea

An IDEA

is just

an idea.

An idea is just that- an idea. Nothing more. Until someone actually takes the steps, makes the movements, creates a plan and puts it to action - it remains an idea.

This is why I am so confused as to why people are so offended when an idea is presented to them -lately. It generally  comes off as jealousy and insecurity. Perhaps the receiver is less creative or they have that "why didn't I think of that?" mindset. They'd rather sit in their own misery than try to do something about it or try something new an innovating. I also have received reactions that project displeasure, because instead of coming to them and praising them for their work, I'm actually trying to build upon it and/or improve it. (And that's not say I haven't congratulated them or praised them before.) I have definitely experienced this personally, but I have also witnessed it a few times with other colleagues, work partners, and friends over the last year. I tell someone an idea and it's met with anger or frustration.

Before I go any further, I would like to say that most of my context for this post pertains to the workplace where I've dealt with this backlash the most. I'm not focused on extreme cases or the overly dramatic situations.

I understand that if the idea is going to add extra work for someone or requires more time from another individual, there can be hesitation. However, when neither is required from the person receiving the idea, what's the problem?

Sharing ideas can be inspiration for the receivers. It can spark them to have an idea of their own and get their creative flow going. It can help people who have those ideas clarify, and refine their goals and purpose within those ideas. I'm not suggesting we indiscriminately unload our ideas onto others, but sharing ideas can even be necessary. - Imagine being excited to share your idea and being shot down, before you even tried to execute it.

Ideally, the receiver would be happy for the person and the idea they have. However, I'm suggesting that at the very least, if you can't be positive towards someone's idea, at least take a step back and before you say anything negative, tell the person you need more time to digest what was just said. If you don't have the capacity to help someone with their idea let them know, but wish them well. And remember that just because someone shares an idea with you, it doesn't mean they are asking for your help either; don't assume - let them ask you.

In terms of the workplace, I feel like ideas show initiative by the employees to fix problems, expand areas of work, improve policies and procedures, and overall they show that the employee is invested in their place of work and they care. I've never wasted my time trying to improve a workplace that I thought was hopeless or that I was undervalued at.

A good leader knows how to help steer ideas to make an organization better and a good colleague or friend knows encouragement and support goes a long way for someone who has goals. If anything, just remember the Golden Rule: If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all - especially about an idea that is still in the mind of someone else.