Why Didn't I Think of That?

Doesn't it seem like when all of the good ideas are already taken, BAM!--something comes along that has everyone saying "Damn, how come I didn't think of that?!" Why is this? Why do such inventions leave us feeling this way? I tend to think the main reason so many great ideas are overlooked is assumption. Assumption, as in that it's such a great idea, someone else has to have thought of it already and is in the process of trying to develop it. Another reason is the overwhelming feeling of not knowing where or even how to begin.

The good news is that with thorough research you can find out the things you need to know to make sure no one else is "in your lane," so to speak. After all, we live in a time where virtually no one is anonymous, especially if they are running a business. In other words, technology has allowed almost everyone to be accessible, especially those who own and operate a business. With that said, the chances of someone else working on the very same idea you have and there be no researchable information or record of it is very slim. So if you've got a great idea, don't sit on it. Do your due diligence and if the coast is clear, go for it.

Formula for success: C + B = A

What the mind can Conceive and Believe it will Achieve. This is a formula I keep next to my computer and refer to quite often. I'm sure you may have heard similar concepts before such as, "As a man thinketh" or "You become what you think of most." No matter how you phrase it, it all comes down to the same thing--you and the thoughts that occupy your mind. 

Conceive + Believe = Achieve

As simple as it may sound, everything around you started as a thought. The device you're reading this entry on started as a thought. The fact is, without the thought, the action can not take place. It still amazes me how some people think that their dreams are not possible, yet people are orbiting the moon and manufacturing life-changing inventions every day. So when someone tells you your idea is "crazy," or "it will never work," remember this simple equation:
C + B = A. 

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

"Its always impossible until it's done." --Nelson Mandela

Separate Time from Talent

You're never too young or too old to pursue a dream. If you don't believe me just log on to YouTube and see for yourself. People ranging from 8 to 80 are now starting big businesses and launching new careers at historic rates when before, age would have surely played a discriminating factor. 

Technology has a way unlike any other that makes it easy for anyone to share their passion or talent with the masses right from the comfort of their home or smartphone. The days of needing an office, hiring employees and tracking overhead to sustain a business are a thing of the past. Whether it be a smartphone app, a blog, a tutorial, or a website, resources can be found everywhere that technology is available. And if there isn't one that your looking for, then perhaps that's your cue to create it.

Take Inventory

Sometimes it's good to stop and take a look at where you are in life by taking inventory. You'll either say one of two things: "Ok I'm on the right track," or "What the hell have I been doing all this time?!" It's quite amazing the clarity that it brings. Either way, doing this throughout the year, once a month, or even weekly will help you stay the course. Furthermore, it not only gives you an opportunity to purge the things in your life that aren't conducive to achieving your goals, but it can also help you pinpoint the areas that could use some attention.

I like to do this a couple times a month in solitude, usually while on a walk, and without music, or my phone. Something fascinating happens when I take in this moment of reflection. Important tasks that I had forgotten about or had been putting off suddenly reappear, and even new ideas begin to emerge. I'm not really sure why this happens, but it seems to work for me, and hopefully it works for your as well.

It Doesn't Belong 2 You! (Why Your talent isn't YOURS)

Believe it or not, the talent that you possess doesn't really belong to you. Your talent actually belongs to the world. When you think about it, to be deemed "talented" at something is usually a label given to us by another person. In other words, a "talent" really isn't discovered until someone else experiences it. Imagine the kind of world this would be if everyone kept their talent to themselves. I believe the magic doesn't begin with the talent itself; the magic lies in the act of sharing your talent with others.

I've met quite a few people who didn't consider themselves to be talented or creative. But the reality is, each and every one of us are creative in our own way, and we ALL possess the ability to use our minds and bring ideas to life (regardless of what anyone tells you). In fact, this reality is one of the many things that make living in this day in age so remarkable. The "Information Age" is perfect for cultivating new talents and ideas, and displaying them to the world. So remember the old adage "sharing is caring," and don't be afraid to share your talents with others. You never know who you may inspire.