We often work with people in creative fields and business professionals with very creative ideas.  Often these ideas get crushed before they reach us, even if they are sound and have good odds to increase business.  This week’s blog is dedicated to identifying creativity killers so we might avoid them in the future.

 Yes, But what if …

Often the best ideas don’t leave the meeting room because hypothetical scenarios are created in which the idea will fail.  The scenarios might affect one percent of the target group, meaning the idea could achieve 99 percent success.  These potential outcomes usually start with, “yes, but what if…” 

 Few if any ideas will have a favorable impact on 100 percent of a population.  I’d be happy if I could increase sales by 10 percent.

  Analysis Paralysis

Some businesses never get off the ground. They are consumed with building the perfect mouse trap, having all of their ducks in a row and waiting for the ideal time to ask a prospect for business.  If you are watching and waiting, your competitors are probably catching up and passing you buy.

  There are few ideal situations.  If your idea is ready, get out there and make it happen.

 Boat Rocking

So many people have held the same jobs and beliefs they don’t have the ability to think outside of the box.  These same people feel threatened when a new idea might change their routine.  They will through up road blocks and barriers to keep you from bringing your idea to life.

 Ignore them.  Nothing ventured. Nothing gained.  And most of us get bored with mundane lives.

 Creating/Evaluating

 A project’s success or failure is best judged by evaluating the results after the project is completed.  Yet, many people analyze results, even as the project or idea is just getting out the door.  Evaluating as you create is a sure recipe for disaster. 

 Let your pilot program run its course.  Then analyze the results.