What I’ve learned about getting ideas to fly
Ideas are everywhere, all the time. But it’s much harder to find the people who will do everything to turn an idea into reality.
One lesson I have earned is that ideas are typically not clear when you first get them. They are vague, and every now and then some parts of them might appear to you clearly and then disappear.
No one can see all the angles and shapes of the ideas themselves. That’s why we need collaboration and other people. Because what you can’t imagine, someone else can – even beyond your imagination. That’s the beauty of people with diverse backgrounds giving you direction. Then you really begin to see how to move forward step by step to reach your goals. And, even better, you don’t need to take the steps by yourself anymore. Now you have other people on the journey with you.
Everyone needs to start somewhere. What ultimately makes a difference is the fact that you keep moving and fast. Something else I have learned is the importance of really looking deep into your own strengths. You need to look at your own resources, networks and skills. Can you make it? And how can you make it in your own unique way?
Doubts in yourself and your ideas are normal and also often the most challenging parts when you are starting. When you pitch your idea to people, they might say things like “this can’t succeed”, “you are from the wrong country”, “your team is not good enough” and “you are not good enough” or “you are ruining your life if you found a startup”. I have heard all these things. But I have also learned to let go of these negative thoughts as quickly as possible.
You should also focus on one dream. This might feel scary because it is also riskier. To be able to focus, you need to be willing to put a lot in one basket. It also helps to know why you are doing it, why you want to wake up every morning to do this one thing. You can be motivated by your values, your passion, money – you know best what motivates you.
When you find your thing, dream, vision, whatever you call it, you can feel it in your guts. It will shine from you, and I believe that it will then also help you to find the people who will want to take the path with you. That might take some time, but this task is among the most crucial ones. Because when you have the right team in the right seats, you can start the ride and everything becomes easier, faster and more beautiful.
At 52nd Ventures, we are here to help people to find the right teams and resources. Because we know how difficult it can be in the beginning when you just have the core concept. Contact us if you have an idea.
