When your idea becomes someone else’s idea

It’s still morning. You’ve just arrived at the agency and started your morning ritual. You get some coffee (or tea, or water, or whatever you kids drink these days), a bagel with extra cream cheese — because you walked to work and you deserve it.

Then, you head back to your desk and start reading the news, swiping through the endless ad industry blogs (like this very one you’re reading now). Watch the newest ads on Creativity Online or Ads of the World trying to find your inspiration muse for the day.

Out of the blue, you read one article that you didn't expect or a new campaign with a title that's way too familiar.

Your pupils dilate, and your heartbeat goes out of control. You sweat. You curse (whispering at first, then so loud everyone can hear you). You can't believe it...

Some mother$@%&* stole your idea!

That idea you came up with months ago and got killed by your boss, by your client, or by a producer who said it couldn't be done. That idea that you never showed it to anyone else because you thought it was so bad it wouldn't ever fly. That idea that you forgot is now lost between a mountain of used papers and old scribbles.

But now there it is. Another creative thought about it. Another brand bought it. And it's out there — getting the press, awards, and recognition yours will never get.

You keep cursing all day long. You play angry music. You want to call the son of a bitch that stole your idea and make him put you on the credits. You're irrational.

But you know what?

You're wrong. That idea is not your idea anymore.

Why?

Because that other creative made it. Plain and simple.

While your idea is gathering a pile of dust. His/hers is out there, produced, published, and running.

And you know what?

That's what happens in this industry. The ideas that count are the ones that are made.

But don't worry... I've been there too. Today.