Quick! What’s the definition of an idea?
It’s a word we use all the time, but when it comes to defining it concisely, it’s not so easy to be immediately articulate.
Here’s a definition I like, mostly because there are some key insights inside it.
An idea is a single solution, plan or option which solves a specific problem or fulfils a need.
Let’s break this down.
1. Problem or Need
The problem is the reason why we create ideas. By definition (while we’re on the subject), a is something that’s in the way of you achieving a goal.
(The link has several definitions of a problem, by the way.)
Because ideas solve problems, creativity and problem solving are often the same thing.
Ideas either solve the problem or fulfils a need or want, and sometimes they’re different sides of the same coin. If the idea doesn’t do either, that’s a good definition of a bad idea. (See below.)
2. Single Solution
An idea is a single solution – not right or wrong, not good or bad.
For ‘everyday’ creative problem solving, one idea may be all you need to decide it’s the right solution. For example, How do I pick up the kids but also get home in time to finish the project for a client?
Answer? Get the husband to pick up the kids.
At the same time, you’ll never know if a single idea is good nor bad, because you have nothing to compare it to.
The ideal situation is to generate plenty of ideas. In creative philosophy, the word is frequency. By having volulme, you can compare and contrast ideas against each other to decide which one may be better than the other. Lots of ideas also gives you perspective and more choice.
Don’t worry if some ideas aren’t good. There’s always more bad ideas than good, which is not only normal, it has its own name: .
3. Specific
The more precise and articulate you are about what you want to accomplish – either getting rid of a problem or satisfying a need – the more likely your idea will do exactly what you need it to do. Vague objectives or problem statements lead to less usable ideas. As Steve Jobs said: “If you define the problem correctly, you almost have the solution.”
Also, remember that an idea is the only true demonstration of creativity. Personality and behaviour may signal creativity generally, but true creativity boils down to one’s ability to create a lot of ideas.
But wait! What about Bad Ideas?
Believe it or not, bad ideas have considerable value. A bad idea might not solve this problem, but it might solve another problem. Or, just as likely, a bad idea can often lead to a good idea if you improve whatever aspect of the idea that doesn’t work. Or, a bad idea might make you think of another, better idea.
It’s not just me who says this. Check out Why Bad Ideas Are Worth Chasing by Tucker Margulies for The Creative Factor.
What’s your definition of an idea? Have you ever found a way to use a bad idea? Please feel free to add your thoughts and comments below.
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