Nisbett reminds us that when we have the beginnings of an idea about
something, the worst thing to do is consult the literature before we get
started to work on it. In doing so, he writes, we will be certain to assimilate
our potentially original idea to something that is already out there.
But it’s just
an ego vortex. A safety drill. It’s creative resistance in disguise. Because
we’re scared. We seek confirmation that this new thing we’re working on isn’t
crazy. That the marketplace will welcome it with open arms. Only then, will we
launch our idea.
That’s not how innovation works. Nobody changes the
world by finding out what other people already know. They change the world by
committing to the frightening work of flying blind. They change the world by stubbornly
sticking their fingers in their ears and bravely venturing into the dark forest
of the unknown.
And so, if you’re working on something new and exciting, instead
of consulting the literature, write it. Instead of meeting the standard, set
it. Doing research is procrastination in disguise.
Jobs never gave customers
what they wanted. He believed people didn’t know what they wanted until
somebody showed them. And so, he spent his career showing them. He never
consulted the literature for objects of interest, he became one.
Remember, your
greatest currency in this world is your originality. And that demands a
willingness to experiment. Don’t worry about what most people normally. Just
start. Hire yourself. Let the rest of the world that follows be compared to
you. Because the best way to shatter the limit is not to know one exists.
LET ME ASK YA THIS…
What industry are you the standard bearer of?
LET ME SUGGEST THIS…
For the list called, “49 Ways to become an Idea Powerhouse,” send an email to me, and you win the list for free!
* * * *
Scott Ginsberg
That Guy with the Nametag
Author. Speaker. Strategist. Inventor. Filmmaker. Publisher. Songwriter.
Never the same speech twice. Customized for your audience. Impossible to walk away uninspired.
Now booking for 2015-2016.
Email to inquire about fees and availability. Watch clips of The Nametag Guy in action here!
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