We have a real need to be with people like us and we tend to not associate with people who are greatly different.
Thus, we only hear like ideas, and the changes suggested by those with the greatest differences are often ignored.
And, if we suggest something greatly different to the group, we may even be ostracized.
So, it takes great courage to suggest something really new.
Group culture is very closed and monolithic, and can be very bad if we want to grow and or improve. The best ideas almost always come from outside the group. It is very very difficult to cast the lone no vote in a group of 7, especially if you are the last one to vote.
That determines leadership versus followship. A leader recognizes those huge different idea opportunities. Sure, sometimes we lead, sometimes we follow. But when a great idea comes walking by, we must recognize and accept it or at a minimum ask, “What is good about it”.
Our groups must continue to evolve, and seek different people and different ideas. Welcome new members. The more different the better. Then, forgive those who want change.
In Sales, at first, act like the buyer so they think you are one of them.
Once you discover their need, you can ask what the solution would be worth before you suggest the wild and crazy idea.
Go forth and be different! Crazy ideas, Like plant alfalfa in the medium of all our expressways and let farmers mow and harvest. Stop food stamps and give free bulk dried beans and rice to anyone. Give everyone on welfare a job, a broom and a shovel , like Mexico: Sweep the streets and sidewalks. Put nuclear power plants at the bottom of the ocean. Make tiny tiny wireless cameras and put them in every street light.
Give me time , I will think of even crazier ideas.