Most people find it hard to speak their minds and share their ideas or opinions for various reasons. Perhaps it is out of fear over what others may think of them, or it is because of self-doubt. Either way, it’s vital to realize that most great notions are lost due to the fear of sharing ideas.
Humans are communal beings, such that we depend on each other to thrive. Therefore, living in groups helps us survive and develop much better. This may be why people find it hard to put themselves in a position where others think less of them.
Doubting the content of your ideas is what gives rise to the fear of being judged or dismissed by those around you. Being made fun of or ridiculed is also another thing that crosses many folks’ minds when they think about sharing their ideas.
However, we need to encourage risk-taking by ensuring we create safe spaces where people can speak up without judgment; Kara Goldin is a fearful example of a woman who turned her idea into a successful business. She offers a safe space platform that promotes free thinking and sharing. So, if you want to fix this issue, first learn to understand why most people fear sharing their ideas.
What Are the Reasons Why People Don’t Share Their Ideas?
The Fear of Being Judged
You may be self-conscious about your idea or value it too much to put it in a position where people can critique it. So you may choose not to share to avoid anyone ruining the greatness around it that is embedded in your head.
Sharing your idea may subject you to some level of vulnerability, but that is the only way to face the reality of your thoughts and allow yourself to test the value of that particular idea. In addition, it’s vital to realize that any feedback received, whether negative or positive, can be used for the betterment of your thoughts.
Fear of Competition
Sometimes you may feel threatened by those around you over their abilities. For example, you may assume that sharing your idea may cause others to try to come up with suggestions on how to better the idea and eventually make it seem like their idea.
It’s alright to feel possessive towards your thoughts; however, you should never let that deter you from sharing. The results may be better than you expect.
Being Scared to Fail
It’s easier to avoid speaking since you can only fail by trying, and if you stay quiet, you can’t fail. It’s more comfortable to stay silent than to risk putting yourself out there to be judged. It may seem like a good choice but on the contrary, staying quiet means sitting on your ideas which means you will not utilize them to achieve any of your goals.
You ought to just go for it; what’s the worst that can happen?
Lacking Self-confidence
Having confidence in yourself will also help you feel strongly about your ideas, and you will be able to share them freely. When you let go of self-doubt, you get to trust in your abilities as well as your ideas. You need to focus on what you aim to achieve, as sharing your thoughts can bring more perspective into your idea and can even improve it all together!
Fear of People Stealing the Ideas
Aside from the fear of being rejected and ridiculed, the second most common reason people fear sharing ideas is that others may steal them. Sharing your idea is your personal choice and you decide what is the best step to take. Sharing is the best way to achieve your goals with your idea. Keeping it to yourself won’t help you in any way and you won’t get anywhere with it.
An idea is only useful when put into play and implemented successfully. Once you see your vision at work, you won’t worry anymore about keeping it safe.
Best Action to Take
Let go of your fears and share your thoughts. After all, you never know what good can come your way by speaking your mind!
