Crazy New Ideas: The Power of Implausibility

Crazy New Ideas: The Power of Implausibility

In the world of innovation and entrepreneurship, crazy new ideas are often met with skepticism and dismissal. However, what if these seemingly preposterous ideas hold the key to groundbreaking discoveries and success? This article explores the concept of implausible-sounding ideas proposed by reasonable domain experts and the potential they hold.

When someone we consider to be both a domain expert and a reasonable person presents an idea that sounds far-fetched, our immediate reaction might be to reject it. However, it is crucial to remember that if the person proposing the idea is reasonable, they must know something we don't. Instead of dismissing the idea outright, we should approach it with curiosity and ask questions. There is a mystery to unravel here – why would a smart and reasonable person propose something that seems so wrong?

The truth is, if we eliminate the possibility that the person proposing the idea is incompetent, its initial implausibility becomes evidence of its potential excitement. Betting on a set of implausible-sounding ideas put forth by reasonable domain experts could lead to significant advancements and success. It is this recognition that separates the open-minded from the closed-minded – the willingness to explore rather than reject.

However, the process of accepting and embracing new ideas is not always easy. Our natural inclination is to be skeptical, especially when faced with ideas that challenge our existing beliefs or conventional wisdom. This skepticism often stems from a fear of being wrong or a sense of envy towards the person proposing the idea. We must recognize these biases and consciously overcome them to truly appreciate the value of new ideas.

Moreover, the lowest form of dismissal is factionalism – automatically rejecting any idea associated with an opposing faction. This type of close-mindedness stifles progress and prevents us from exploring new possibilities. Similarly, dismissing an idea based on who proposed it is the lowest form of all. Ideas should not be judged based on the person behind them, but rather on their own merit and potential.

If we genuinely desire to have new ideas ourselves, one of the most valuable things we can do is to learn what they look like when they are born. This means actively seeking out reasonable domain experts who propose ideas that initially sound wrong. By studying these ideas and understanding their underlying principles, we can develop a deeper appreciation for the creative process and enhance our own ability to generate innovative solutions.

In the world of startups and entrepreneurship, persistence is often the key to success. Take, for example, the case of Ben Silbermann, the co-founder of Pinterest. Despite the slow initial growth and minimal traction, Silbermann never gave up on his vision. His love for collecting things and the idea that collections project one's identity fueled his determination to continue working on Pinterest.

Silbermann's personal connection to the concept of collections resonated deeply with him, and he knew he had to persevere, even when faced with discouraging numbers. He personally reached out to the first 5,000 users, building a direct line of communication with them. This hands-on approach, doing things that don't scale, allowed him to gather valuable feedback and create a community around the platform.

Furthermore, Silbermann's fear of telling everyone that he failed was a driving force behind his persistence. The prospect of embarrassment and the thought of not being accepted by companies like Google, where he had previously worked, pushed him to keep going. This highlights the importance of personal motivation and the desire to prove oneself, even in the face of adversity.

Pinterest's success did not come overnight. It wasn't a flood of new users or celebrity endorsements that propelled the platform to where it is today. Instead, it was the steady growth and the commitment of early adopters who used the platform as intended. These individuals played a crucial role in keeping Pinterest alive during its early stages.

So, what can we learn from the story of Ben Silbermann and Pinterest? Firstly, we should not be quick to dismiss ideas that seem unconventional or implausible. By being open-minded and exploring the potential behind these ideas, we may discover groundbreaking solutions and opportunities. Secondly, persistence is key. Even in the face of slow growth or minimal traction, staying committed to a vision and continuously improving is vital for long-term success. Lastly, building a strong community and establishing personal connections can make all the difference. By directly engaging with early adopters and gathering feedback, we can create a loyal user base that will help drive growth.

In conclusion, crazy new ideas have the potential to change the world if we approach them with an open mind and a willingness to explore. By recognizing the value of implausibility and embracing ideas proposed by reasonable domain experts, we can unlock groundbreaking discoveries and innovations. Persistence, personal motivation, and community-building are essential elements in the journey towards success. So, the next time you encounter a crazy new idea, instead of dismissing it, ask questions and be open to the possibilities it holds. You might just stumble upon the next big thing.