THE IDEA TREE

Everything begins with an idea. Perhaps even creation itself.  Consider all the inventions and refinements of those inventions, working procedures and systems. It's an amazing reflection of the human mind.

While many ideas are a response to need, others are a better, faster, less expensive solution to something that already exists. Some look at things differently, and rather than responding to a need, ask themselves "What would people spend money on, if it was available?" Most creative people are accustomed to keeping an "idea file" or an "idea box" so ideas don't get forgotten, and they can go back at a future time and develop.

Perhaps you don't consider yourself to be a creative person, because to you that means the writers, artists, composers, inventors, scientists and the designers of technology. But we believe that creativity exists in all people as a God given gift. Some may have more than others - and it will appear in different forms, but it lies within each of us. It may show up in every day problem solving, organizational development, marketing, technology, relationships and often, just the way we do things. If something doesn't work the way it's being done, we can usually find a better way, with just a little effort. That is tapping into our creativity.

Ideas sometimes come together quickly, others over quite a stretch of time.  Sometimes they are developed between you and the Lord, but often with others, either by design or by accident. Whatever the case and whatever your vision, or idea, putting it in the perspective of an Idea Tree is helpful. 

Root System:
The health and depth of the roots are going to determine the growth of the tree.
(Roots can be financial strength, network of people supporting, facilities, etc.)

Soil:
The soil that the tree is planted in must be fertile. All the necessary ingredients are required, as well as nurturing in its formative state.
(Planted in prayer, providing the physical space where the idea can take root and thrive)

Tree Trunk:
Determine the potential and probable size of the tree. What are the possibilities? Will it stand alone or be among others in the forest? The girth of the tree will never contradict the kind of tree it is. A vine maple will never have a six foot circumference.
(A church in a rural area has a different growth potential than one in the city. A fabulous musical event may thrive on a Thursday evening but fail on a Sunday afternoon.)

Branches:
The tree trunk will support many branches. How many branches are needed to make the tree be a tree?
(What will the branches look like? How many will there be? What purpose will they serve?)

Maturity: 
When the tree reaches maturity, it will have identifying characteristics that will be apparent to all who see it. A vine maple will be recognizable.
(Ideas that are planted and nurtured grow to fruition.) JS

KEY QUESTIONS:
1. What fleeting ideas have you had that can be developed into something that will bring you an increase?
2. Who can you partner with to add to your own thinking? A colleague, friend or coach may help in developing your ideas.
3. How can you arrange your life so that you have more mental space to better use your creativity to greatest benefit?