Sometimes ideas are hard to come by, believe me, I know. I usually know what I am trying to accomplish, but I struggle with where and how to start. Usually, I’m looking for the perfect path to start down which can be paralyzing. When that happens, I must remind myself of the principle “Any idea in the absence of one is a good one” to navigate the uncertainty and get started. It’s a simple statement with profound insight to human behavior, especially when options are scarce or non-existent.
For example, let’s consider the creation of this blog post. After years of writing, finding fresh ideas doesn’t always come easy. I sift through old notes, reflect on what burdens others and myself, and draw from conversations and observations. Sometimes, I’m already on fire about something that happened that week and the words just fly out (no AI involved 😊). Other times, I’m reaching and start with what seems like a poor idea, and usually find that the idea evolves into rich and unexpected content. Once I get started, it’s not unusual for the content to spark other ideas for other blogs, supporting the principle that in the absence of ideas, any idea is a worthwhile start.
Interestingly, this also highlights a fundamental human trait—a deep-seated aversion to uncertainty. Most of us are compelled to “fill the void,” whether it’s silence in a conversation or a missing solution to a problem, we will reach for and try out any idea. The ideas may be imperfect, but they propel us forward, sparking further thought and exploration. If you want to do a simple test, try holding back on responding to someone in a two-way conversation. The longer you are quiet, the more they will talk to fill the uncomfortable void of silence!
In the business world, using any idea as a starting point can drive innovation and adaptability. It helps teams move from decision paralysis to active problem solving, ultimately building towards that final solution. For creative professions, it encourages starting with whatever comes to mind and refining ideas through the creative process. Taking any step forward is better than standing still; at the very least it helps you discard what will not work, leading towards ideas on what may work. It’s a process.
On a personal level, everyday life is replete with decisions, from the mundane to the life-changing. In moments of indecision—whether choosing a career path, resolving interpersonal conflicts, or managing personal goals—embracing the first idea that comes to mind can open new doors for you and take you to unexpected places. Consider the simple, but vague personal goal to “get fit.’ The idea is a launching point that can evolve into specific plans like learning pickleball, joining a team, or playing in a championship. Each step is refined further based on results, personal preferences, and evolving goals. Maybe after starting down the road, I find I do not like pickleball, but I enjoyed certain aspects that lead me to try tennis instead. Not where I started, but a better fit!
This approach, valuing action over perfection, helps circumvent the paralysis often caused by seeking a flawless plan. It’s about taking whatever steps you can, however small, to start moving toward a goal. Once you start, you’ll find that by embracing that first idea, uncertainty is transformed into a pathway of possibilities, each step naturally leading to the next and enriching our journeys. This principle doesn’t just fill voids—it transforms them into opportunities for growth and self-discovery.
“Action is the foundational key to all success.” – Pablo Picasso
Are you standing at a crossroads, unsure of which path to take? Or staring at a blank page, waiting for the perfect idea to strike? Start where you are, use what you have, and do what you can.
I’d love to hear from you about your experiences with taking that first step in moments of uncertainty. Share your stories in the comments below or reach out via social media. Let’s inspire each other by celebrating our journeys, no matter how imperfect the beginnings might be.
Let’s transform our uncertainties into opportunities together. What’s the first step you’re going to take?
Have a great weekend.
-Vijay