All it takes is that one idea. That one concept that will change everything. Every entrepreneur is searching for it, but only a few find a truly revolutionary idea. That doesn’t mean that you can’t find one. Quite the opposite. There is a great startup idea inside everyone, it’s just a case of unlocking it! Every person is unique. Everyone has a different perspective on life. That means everyone has the potential to fix something or create something new.
It isn’t easy to come up with that first idea, and it often comes when you least expect it. We’ve been following entrepreneurs for years. Through doing so, we’ve come to understand the sparks behind their ideas. Here’s how to learn from them and come up with your own world-beating concept.
Stop searching for it
If there’s one thing we’ve learnt, it’s that ideas hit you at the most inappropriate times. The harder you try to fix something or find an answer, the further out of reach it seems to get. Instead, try to let it come to you naturally. Immerse yourself in the industry and your passions and a spark will eventually come. Learn to follow that spark rather than force a startup idea. Remember, your first idea doesn’t have to be revolutionary. It just has to be something. Pursue it and it will evolve and develop over time.
Look at your passions and your industry
The best place to find a great idea is right under your nose. Look to an industry where you already have plenty of knowledge, skill and passion. That will help you see the gaps in the market. It will help you find the right audience and speak the right language. Start with something familiar and you’ll already have the inroads and the contacts to move forward. Just begin by brainstorming business ideas in the field that you know and love. You’ll find that ideas will come flushing out.
Look at what’s next
One key characteristic of great entrepreneurs is that they’re always looking forward. They have one eye on the horizon, firmly fixed on future trends and technologies. They look for ways to harness a new technology, or mould it into something new. They pick up on burgeoning trends and fight their way in with a new idea. Great startups are all about acting quickly and latching on to bigger movements.
Fix the thing that annoys you
Sometimes, the simplest ideas are the best. What’s the one thing in your life that holds you back? What’s the thing that grinds your gears or slows you down? Chances are, you’re not the only one. Take the first step and try to fix that one thing that bugs you. Then scale it up and fix it for others too.
There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to your first startup. Start by looking close to home and find problems to fix. Look for gaps in the market and jump on them quickly. Most importantly, latch yourself onto a bigger movement and ride the wave with a killer startup idea.
