“An idea that is developed and put into action is more important than an idea that exists only as an idea.”

Edward de Bono

When the process of Nanovation identifies a cause that is worthy of creative minds, it can’t help but create a movement. When you define the project as a noble, heroic cause something very exciting happens. No one has to ask, “Does my work matter?” Suddenly, people connect personally with the cause because they have a direct line-of-sight that links their individual contributions to something bigger, something deeply meaningful. Instead of just doing a job, they know they are making a difference. This becomes a powerful motivator. They give more discretionary effort, ask better, more provocative questions, become more resourceful, and do things they didn’t know they were capable of doing. Rally a critical mass of people who think and act like this and you have a movement in the making.

So ask yourself: “Am I part of a business or am I engaged in a movement? The people with whom I work, are they just doing a job or do they bring the maniacal focus and missionary zeal of a crusader to the game?” These aren’t just philosophical questions; they are foundational to creating a culture that is fertile for Nanovation.

This is what a big dream that serves a great cause can do. It captures our attention, draws us in, enlists and elevates us. If the cause is truly heroic it will touch people at a visceral level. Something in it will resonate with our deep-seated values and sense of idealism—our better selves.

By capturing some of our deepest aspirations, a noble cause floods our veins with adrenaline and unleashes our creativity. Like breathing pure oxygen after a rigorous climb, the cause brings energy, vitality and life to the organization. It creates a buzz. Our hearts are aroused and our minds are stimulated. Limitations fuel creativity and become opportunities versus constraints.

By capturing some of our deepest aspirations, a noble cause floods our veins with adrenaline and unleashes our creativity. Like breathing pure oxygen after a rigorous climb, the cause brings energy, vitality and life to the organization. It creates a buzz. Our hearts are aroused and our minds are stimulated. Limitations fuel creativity and become opportunities versus constraints.
Team Nano members in the design center. They worked incredibly long hours against the odds to make something that captured the attention of the entire world.

Nanovation then, begins with a big dream in the service of a great cause and out of that cause comes a movement, a movement that invites us to unleash the best of who we are. In the service of a cause, we will choose to change our behaviors and our beliefs about what’s possible. We will choose to ‘opt in’ instead of ‘checking out.’ We will fight like warriors to reach the goal. And we’ll reach out to anyone who wants to join.

We’ve seen the future. We have a movement. Now it’s time to start the revolution.