Sometimes the only reason we manage to break through a tough challenge is because, at the start, we didn't realize how big it actually was. When something looks smaller, we're more willing to jump in. We don't get stuck overthinking... we just try, take a few risks, and move forward. And more often than not, we discover it wasn't as impossible as it seemed.
When a problem feels huge, hesitation kicks in. But taking one small step—any step—can change everything. Progress creates more progress, and little by little, what felt intimidating starts to feel doable.
And staying curious takes it even further. When you treat setbacks as feedback rather than a dead end, it gets much easier to adjust, learn, and take another shot. That kind of flexibility is what keeps you steady when things get rough.
(18 minutes) Steven Johnson breaks down how new ideas come together... a mix of curiosity, collaboration, and those quiet hunches that eventually turn into something big.
Underestimating a challenge sometimes gives you the push you need to take bold steps. So the next time something feels daunting, ask yourself: How hard can it be? The answer might surprise you.
Creativity, Inc. By Ed Catmull and Amy Wallace Pixar's success is built on a culture of creativity, trust, and bold ideas—this book reveals how to nurture innovation.
Loonshots By Safi R. Bahcall Discover how to foster "loonshots"—big, unconventional ideas—while maintaining the structure needed for execution.
Where Good Ideas Come From By Steven Johnson Innovation is rarely a sudden spark—this book reveals how big ideas grow from curiosity, collaboration, and persistence.
Prioritization When everything feels important, nothing truly is, so clear the clutter and focus on what moves the needle.
Just Barely Good Enough Done is better than perfect when learning, growth, and improvement are part of the process.
Release Early, Release Often Perfection is not the goal—delivering value, learning from feedback, and improving with every step is.