A decent set of prescriptive steps for innovating our way toward growth. I agree that it's now the time to think big and (excuse the mac fanboy reference) "think different," where different means more than repairing roads and bridges.

Different this time means creating new bases for energy production and use; new industries based on nascent discoveries (e.g., bio-tech;) new commercial value-adds based on concepts like social networks or life tracking.

I think that the only thing we have to fear (more than 'fear itself') is our reticence to think big, really big.

You got money?

Cause every time I pitch our innovative ideas - I get "yah - that's gonna happen, but in the future" - we're not gonna fund anything that more than 18 months out.

So if you got money to invest innovative ideas - than great.

But unfortunately it's easier to talk about it, then to do it.

Moses: I really enjoyed reading this article. It would be interesting to track and profile companies that are taking bold, decisive steps to spur innovation in an extremely weak economic climate.

I love the title: big and bold enough...

When the economy contracts, we seem to as well. And right in the title is an answer--we can't. Leaders bring about change, first, by forging those intangible qualities that bring about hope (as you mention) first in themselves, then in others.

Great blog...thanks

Moses,
you're absolutely right. It takes a very intentional mindset to break out of the group think and fear that causes us to pull back and make ourselves small. These times are truly unusual opportunities to break with the past. It is the time to invent and dream new dreams.

"Make no little plans; they have no magic to stir men's blood...Make big plans, aim high in hope and work."
~ Daniel H. Burnham

Moses,

Thanks for the inspiring article. It applies to both large businesses and to those of us in smaller businesses.

My new motto is "if it worked for Obama, it'll work for me and my business." I wish to be honest, clean, and cool like that in all career dealings.

Creativity, collaboration, and continuous learning is especially good advice, so thanks for that.

Good stuff. Food for motivation.

Robert Allen

moses, thanks for your insightful and informative view on what is happening with the economy and all the many ways we can step up to meet the challenge.
it truly is up to each and every one of us to stay present and creative in all of the circles we engage in. we all have unique contributions to make, and we all count. we can and must take responsibility and take credit for our own actions and interactions. we are brilliant in our own ways and we need to support one another toward expressing ourselves. i completely agree with your concept of c of change ... all aboard! onward and upward, bhasaleona

Thank you, Moses, for the encouragement that makes us see the analogy of what would frighten some people, such as a class V white-water river rapids trip, a blazing bed of coals to walk on, sky-diving and such adventures can be fun with the right mind-set, tools and stratagies. We can also have fun negotiating this current economy with all the same tactics! Great things are in store for us all!
See you at the highest peaks, Donna Bach