If we think about it all things started from an idea, from the computer, to the spoon, to the wheel. All [...]]]> Where do ideas come from? Earlier tonight I was trying to think of a topic to write about and even started two articles (now saved in my draft folder). The ideas never fully formed.

If we think about it all things started from an idea, from the computer, to the spoon, to the wheel. All things we use on a day-to-day basis come from some initial idea. Some evolve in a positive manner; remember the first microwaves that weighed 100 lbs and had the capacity for 2 raw eggs? Some evolve in the wrong direction; Beta giving way to VHS comes to mind.

But not until I stopped thinking did the idea for this article arrive, perhaps that is the key: Ideas come when your mind isn’t working!

Perhaps Edison, who holds over 1000 patents in the US alone, never actually thought? His mind just came up with an idea while he was zoned out on his porch and he was skilled enough to recognize it and execute on it. Maybe this is why ideas come so rapidly when you are stoned? (not that I would know anything about that)

I think what separates “great” visionaries from others is not the idea itself, but the ability to execute the idea into a product that can perform the task it is meant to and do it in a way that is effective for the audience it is intended for. This could be some sort of consumer market, but in the case of this blog, the audience is you. My job as an “author” is to take an idea and write something that entertains and/or captures your minds for the brief few paragraphs I type.

But if that is the case, how does one measure the success of the execution? My blog certainly won’t get the millions of hits as something like slashdot.org or engadget.com. It could be argued that financial gain is a measure of success, but some of the greatest ideas in history haven’t resulted in the earning of much money at all, at least not for 1 or a concentrated group of people.

I choose to take my ideas and write them into a blog, others take their ideas and build an object to sell, and others take their ideas to the stage as stand up comedians. Each of these methods of execution are just as valid and satisfying to the idea holder and to their intended audience(s).

So execute your ideas how you want, and forget about the measurement of success, take a chance, write our thoughts, speak your mind, build that automated-booger-flicker or gold-plated laptop you’ve been dreaming about. The ride is more important than the destination!

So, did I execute? Probably not, it is 1 in the morning…