An Initiative Should Have an Inherent Chance of Success

In the past, if we were enthusiastic about an initiative, we often said to ourselves 'let's pull and tug at it until it works'. We were of course focused on doing our utmost to achieve success. Now, with the same commitment to success, we do what is necessary to guarantee it.

But if an idea or initiative is unable to take off under its own steam, as it were, if it relies entirely on us to get off the ground, we pass it up simply because it will require too much thought, effort, time and money. It should not be too contrived, too much of a reach. An initiative should have an inherent chance of success before it becomes a project we would like to commit ourselves to.

This is a difficult point. How do you know? If there is a well-run project that someone wants to expand or wants to duplicate to other parts of the world, its chance of success is easier to assess than that of an idea that exists only on paper. The pertinent questions to ask are: is it innovative? Does it meet a real need in the world? Does it fill a gap in the market or is the market for it already saturated? Does the initiator have any history of success with past projects? Do we think it can be achieved? And, of course: Does the idea generate enthusiasm (do you want to tell others about it immediately)?

We have learnt to listen to our intuition when it firmly tells us "no".

It is important, too, to look into what works in other places. There is still a lot to learn in this respect. One must also have the courage to stop something that isn't working. Essential is therefore to do sufficient research beforehand.

Also read: Carry out Thorough Research and Combine Knowledge and Experience.

Overview of Lessons Learnt