Everyone Has Great Ideas to Contribute and Make Something BetterEveryone Has Great IdeasOwnership is key in making things happen.

How many times have you heard a great idea being discussed in a group. It happens many times over lunch, during coffee, at work or your volunteer organization. Everyone throws in their interpretation of the problem, the possible solutions and how much better things can be. The framework is coming together fast. Everyone is glowing and ideas are building up to this fantastic frenzy outcome. All the banter and brainstorming that develops puts everyone so close to a feasible solution. Later in the day, a few emails may go back and forth; even some text messages. Then, everything goes quiet. A day or two goes by. Nothing happens. The silence is deafening. The idea exchange mill has gone quiet for a week. Then several weeks pass. Nothing. You as observer realize what has happened. Is the project dead, long before it even started? So what really happened?The ProblemSometimes people contribute their ideas in this exchange because they have seen this same problem. Everyone wants a solution put in place. It's finding commonality with others. They enjoy sharing their opinions. Some contribute just to make noise and not be left out. They want to be part of the solution. They don't know what will work or how they can contribute. But they want to be included and seen as a team player; a contributor. Then you, having experience, recognize this pattern as you have seen it several times before. So why does the momentum stop? Simply, because no one takes ownership. Not 1 person steps up to take ownership of the idea. So if no one owns it, then no one has an obligation to make it work. Everyone is safe and off the hook. No liability; no obligation; no need to expend effort on anyone's part. Think of a boxing ring where your participants are seated (or standing) on all 4 sides outside of the ring contributing to a healthy discussion of the problem and possible solutions. But in truth, no one ever steps into the ring to take charge - call it "Taking Ownership". It is as simple as formally announcing and saying, "Ok, I will lead this project, if I can have each of you contribute and support me". Make it formal, clear and official. Say specifically that you will spearhead it, so everyone knows. You take ownership. Once this is done, everyone breathes a sigh of relief and relaxes a bit, knowing they are off the hook and safe, by not taking this lead role.

When No One Takes Ownership Ideas Remain as IdeasWhy Does This HappenEach person has their own reason for contributing to the silence and not taking ownership. One person may already have a full schedule and not want to take on any more projects. Another person may feel they lack the experience and the skill level to take ownership. One person is the type that just needs a push, an invitation or a personal request to take the lead and jump in. Others may feel they already did enough in past and its time for someone else to step in and lead this project. Some may not step in because they feel it will not contribute anything to their personal development and take them in the direction they want to go. Some are afraid of getting over their heads. Some may not be confident enough. Some may lack knowledge. Still others may feel more comfortable assisting someone, but not taking the lead role of ownership; of being the main driver that motivates everyone else to contribute based on their skillset and experience. Perhaps some feel uncomfortable with leading. The reasons can be many.Taking OwnershipThe truth is, the key to making things happen, is "Taking Ownership". Until someone takes ownership, nothing may ever happen or proceed. The critical point to making things happen is "stepping in". Someone has to take the lead; take charge; take on the leadership role - taking ownership. Taking ownership to begin formalizing and organizing is key to making thi...