Why a parking lot is the most valuable thing you can have as an entrepreneur
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Gabe Arnold
November 14, 2023
The Obscure Tale of the Inventor's Notebook: A Lesson for Entrepreneurs
In the heart of the 19th century, a lesser-known inventor, Franz Xavier, embarked on a journey that would transform the world of innovation, though his name never graced the pages of popular history. In a small, dimly lit workshop in Vienna, Franz kept a peculiar leather-bound notebook. Unlike other inventors who rushed to patent their ideas, Franz believed in the 'Ideenparkplatz' – a concept akin to what we today call the "parking lot" for ideas.
The "Parking Lot" Concept: A Modern Entrepreneur's Toolbox
Just as Franz Xavier wisely cataloged his flashes of genius in his notebook, modern entrepreneurs must embrace the 'parking lot' method. This process involves meticulously collecting every spark of creativity and insight, no matter how raw or unrefined. By doing so, you're not just storing ideas; you're creating a treasure trove of potential.
Why Your Ideas Deserve a 'Parking Lot'
Time to Marinate: Ideas, like fine wine, often need time to mature. The 'parking lot' allows your concepts to evolve and develop depth.
Objective Refinement: Distance lends perspective. Revisiting ideas after a break can highlight strengths and weaknesses you may have initially overlooked.
Combination and Evolution: Sometimes, the fusion of two parked ideas can lead to groundbreaking innovations.
Prioritization: Not all ideas can or should be pursued immediately. The 'parking lot' helps you prioritize based on resources, timing, and relevance.
The Hidden Gem: An Untold Story from Franz's Notebook
Within Franz's notebook lay a concept ahead of its time – a design for a mechanical device that resembled modern-day robotics. However, Franz recognized the limitations of his era and knew that some ideas were meant for a future generation. By parking this idea, he allowed it to eventually inspire others, long after his time.
Want to hear a little more about how I do this?
To your success,
Gabe