Is your big idea worth pursuing? (+ 3 ways to make it happen.)

Quick, stop what you’re doing and join me in a 3-second exercise.

Think for a second about your next big project. You know, the one you’ve been thinking about, or wanting to do for a while.

Maybe it’s writing a book, starting a podcast, giving a speech, writing a blog, you name it.

Maybe you don’t even know what medium it will take yet, but you have an idea. A perspective you want to share. A story you want to tell.

Okay, now just think for a second about that thing, that idea. Imagine bringing it to life somehow.

What do you feel?

What do you feel physically? Do you notice anything in your body?

I’ll share how I feel. As you may know, I’m currently writing a new book. And I’ll level with you — I’ve barely started. It’s just a wee little seedling at this point.

But every time I think about it, I feel a little spark. It’s like a very gentle shot of electricity and excitement that runs up and down my body and makes my fingertips tingle.

When I feel that sensation, I know I’m on the right path.

Apparently, I’m not the only one. I was listening to author Mel Robbins on Marie Forleo’s podcast and she described it like this:

“... And that’s how you know if you have an idea that’s for you: it’s sort of like a little spark in a forest. It’s like that little first pop. You feel a sense of energy… it expands you. Just a little bit of somethin’.”

Now that’s not to say it’s all rainbows and lollipops. You might also feel fear, imposter syndrome, or resistance.

Further, it can take time to find the idea that truly lights you up. In fact, during the interview Mel Robbins goes on to describe how long it took to find the idea that gave her that spark. This is a natural part of the process, so don’t despair if you haven’t found your next big idea just yet.

Regardless of how you feel right now, I want to encourage you to do three things:

First, challenge your assumptions.

If you think you have to write a certain way, or tell certain stories to be successful, but you’re just not feeling it, don’t beat yourself up trying to make it work.

There are lots of storytelling and marketing gurus out there who will tell you that you have to follow a specific formula or method. But in my experience, that’s just not true.

It’s not to say they’re wrong, but you’re a unique person, and so your storytelling process will be unique to you, too.

Second, follow your spark.

If you feel a sense of energy around an idea or a project, follow it!

Call it your gut, your instinct, your inner wisdom, your passion, or even your frustration at the way things are (and your belief they could be made better).

Whatever you want to call it, that spark inside is a clear sign you’re on the right track. It won’t steer you wrong.

Third, connect with people who will help you turn your spark into a roaring-ass fire.

Want to get your big idea to the finish line? This is the real secret.

I’ll use myself as an example. I pride myself on getting things done. I run a business where, aside from my amazing virtual assistant, I am a company of one. Yet I’ve written two books (with another on the way), created numerous products, published this newsletter consistently, spoken and delivered workshops at plenty of events, and I’m hosting a virtual storytelling summit of my own this January, and I have even more projects in the works. I’ve done all this while helping my amazing clients bring their dream projects to life, AND living a life that I actually enjoy.

But the truth is I don’t actually do it alone.

I surround myself with awesome people — like my rockstar clients who inspire me with their ambitious goals, big ideas, and dedication; my amazing coaches who help me feel strong and capable; my friends and family who inspire and support me; my mastermind group who challenge me to learn, grow, and do better; and so on.

I’ve learned that the spark comes from within, but it’s through the help of others that we keep that fire alive and burning.

In fact...

That’s why I created the virtual Storytelling Mastery Summit for thought leaders: to give you a chance to engage directly with the people you want to learn from.

I specifically designed this event so that you could connect with a small group of like-minded individuals who will help you take your idea from “spark” to “done.” (Check it out here: camilledeputter.com/summit.)

So, how about you? What’s your next big idea?

How will you feed your spark?

And will I see you at the Storytelling Mastery Summit? Seats are going fast...