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people to buy them. The innovators of the world cannot generally exist as one
individual but as a collection - as denoted by models of innovation ecosys-
tems. Innovation requires a specific environment (as discussed by David Nord-
fors above), as well as a network of symbiotic relationships among innovators.
While individual innovation is possible, if you're going to be a lone innovator it
can be very difficult, as you must assume many roles in order to maintain your
own innovation ecosystem. Innovation ecosystems characterize the individuals
or components of the innovation continuum such that the roles and the expected
outcomes associated with each role are determined, and everyone's place in the
innovation process is defined.
Keys to Personal Innovation
When it comes to personal innovation, there are a few key points to keep in mind.
Number one on my list is
passion
. Passion is the food that fuels your determina-
tion and, more importantly, encourages others to help you to their best ability. The
second most important aspect of personal innovation is having a
vision
. If you
don't have a vision, you will have little desire to plan or think ahead. Which leads
me to planning: have a plan, and carry it out to its completion - these things don't
happen overnight. Focusing on your ultimate goal will only get you so far without
a plan to get you there. Lastly, know where you can add value, and be confident
in what you know. Your confidence will breed the resilience and determination
needed to see your project through. There will be times when you are frustrated,
when people are unsupportive, and when you have to reorganize and adjust your
plans. Your confidence is what helps you decide who to listen to and take advice
from, and who to ignore. Determination and resilience will be your best weapons
against the inevitable discouragements that come your way. Always remember, if
you have a passion for something, it will be hard to put that fire out.
How Do We Innovate?
1.
Knowledge
As I've mentioned before, it is important to use what you know. Know
yourself, know the landscape, and know how to take action. If you don't
know these things, find someone who does, or do your best to gather the
necessary information.
2.
Don't be afraid to think differently
Think differently, and be confident in the way you think. Take a look at
your résumé; your thoughts and ideas are not only valid, but valuable. If
you see that your career reflects a different mindset than others that is a
good thing! Yours is a career that celebrates diversity of thought and action,
and people who think differently are the ones we need the most right now.
As Andy Warhol put simply, “you have to do stuff that average people
don't understand, because those are the only good things.” Being different
is what ultimately will make you a better innovator.
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