What’s truly original these days? That’s really the central question asked by a listener in today’s episode. I break down the distinction between “borrowing”, “stealing” and “improving” when it comes to developing your own business idea. It’s important to understand these concepts so you can protect yourself from undue hardships in the future.
Nothing is truly “original”
Basically, very few ideas in business – heck, in the world – are truly original. Everything out there is inspired by something else that came before it. Our job as entrepreneurs isn’t to invent the wheel, but rather to find a way to either improve it – or, simply, find another way to use the wheel that no one else has ever thought of!
Having said that, the lines between “inspired by” and “stolen” can be very blurry. If someone comes to you with an idea for a new business and they’ve fleshed out a lot of specifics, then you turn around and start startlingly similar business? That’s probably not illegal (unless you signed an non-compete agreement), but it’s really sketchy.
If someone comes to you with an idea and you recognize how that idea might apply in an entirely different context, then the area is definitely more gray. Your expertise and passion for your industry is something that this other person couldn’t possibly match. That energy for your business is what will set you apart – nobody else on this planet can possibly steal YOU! So, there’s no reason to blatantly steal someone else’s idea in the first place.
* * *
Want more great tips and resources on improving balance, energy, organization, health fitness, relationships, focus, faith and happiness? Each episode of my podcast, The Chalene Show is designed to give you strategies and simple steps you can implement today to become a better, more balanced, happier version of yourself. LISTEN NOW!
Already a devoted listener to The Chalene Show? Leave a voice message about what topics you’d like to hear on the show or your feedback on a particular episode >> LEAVE A MESSAGE. Chalene would also love for you to leave a review on iTunes! It’s kind of like her tip jar >> LEAVE A REVIEW.
Helpful Resources:
Chalene’s Courageous Confidence Club: www.courageousconfidenceclub.com
This program gives you the tools you need to build confidence in every area of your life. You are supported by a group of people who are going through the program with you and are a sounding board for decisions and opportunities. This program will get you unstuck from your current situation and will teach you the steps needed to get your life in the direction you want!
For help with goal setting and determining your life’s priorities, check out Chalene’s 30 Day Push Program: www.30daypush.com
For health and fitness advice from Chalene, head to www.cj7day.com to download her FREE program with complementary workout videos!
Connect with Chalene:
Chalene on Facebook: www.facebook.com/chalene
Chalene on Instagram: www.instagram.com/chalenejohnson
Chalene on Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/chalenejohnson
Chalene on Twitter: www.twitter.com/chalenejohnson
Chalene on Youtube: www.youtube.com/chalenejohnson
Some of my Instagram Accounts:
www.instagram.com/instagramimpact
