What is an idea?

For most people, the purpose of brainstorming is to generate new ideas. 

We’re not so sure over here. We can take it further, but let’s start in the beginning. 

Ideas come from us - humans. We are shaped by our experiences, culture, relationships, neurobiology, and so much more. We shape ideas as much as ideas shape us. 

What is more human than an idea?

Our humanity is where the ideas begin, and this raises an important question. Where is that idea going? What’s next? What happens after an idea becomes an idea? 

Of course, good brainstorming includes Post-It notes, creative energy, a few simple rules, and a facilitator saying, “There are no bad ideas.” 

But the real work of brainstorming might be the wisdom to let an idea die. Or the courage to fight for an idea before its time has come. Or the patience to wait for its time. Or the generosity to give it away. Or the audacity to devote everything you possibly can to that idea because it’s now or never and you know in your bones it’s just what’s next for you.  

That is why ideas need to be shared. They must be shared so we know what to do next with an idea.

Brainstorming is more than generating lots of new ideas. Brainstorming is what we are doing when we humans get together to ask, ‘what’s next?’