You’ve had an idea for some time, but you’re not sure how to bring it to life? Well, you’ve come to the right place! We know that being an inventor is never easy, but having an idea in your head is already half the job done!
In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of bringing your vision to life, in only 7 simple steps.
Of course, everyone’s journey is different, so make sure to take this with a grain of salt. These are just some general tips that can help pave the way, not a set of strict rules.
With that being said, let’s go on with the article.
1. Learn about the world of business
Even if you have the most revolutionary idea that could change the entire world, it will all amount to nothing if there’s nobody who knows about it. Inventors must learn as much as possible about the business world, it’s simply how it is. People will recognize your idea only when it becomes useful to them, so educating yourself about the market is of the utmost importance.
You have to be more than just an inventor, you’ll also need to be a businessman if you want to succeed. Look at Steve Jobs, for example; he had an idea that eventually changed the way we use our mobile phones, but if he wasn’t so great at presenting it, Apple probably wouldn’t be what it is today.
So, while it might be a little frustrating, make sure to explore and learn about the market before you start creating your invention. It could also help you improve your idea even further.
2. Keep a journal
Having an idea inside your head is not enough. Once you try to put it on paper, you’ll see how complicated it can get. Imagine someone else is presenting your idea to you: what would you ask? What would be a satisfactory response?
Keeping a journal of every advancement you make is going to help you organize better. Once you have a draft of your future invention on paper, everything becomes easier. Set some clear goals, and keep track of your progress.
As trivial as it sounds, keeping a journal could make the entire process much simpler. It can help you focus on the right things, and it makes planning much easier.
3. Ask for feedback
Hearing a second opinion is always refreshing. So, don’t hide your ideas from your loved ones! Their input can be extremely helpful. Be open to criticism, and use it to your advantage. Don’t get all defensive if someone criticizes your ideas, but use their opinions as a positive reinforcement instead.
Of course, you shouldn’t give up on your idea just because your friends don’t like it. If you really believe in it, don’t let anybody stop you. There’s a huge difference between constructive criticism and putting someone down.
Whatever you do, don’t be afraid to ask for advice from people around you. It’s likely that you’ll benefit from listening to a fresh perspective.
4. Own your idea
Can your idea be patented? If so, how do you proceed?
Well, first of all, you’ll have to do a lot of research.
Unfortunately, patenting isn’t a very simple process. You’ll probably have to get your lawyers involved. Still, the earlier you go into the process, the better. You can always seek professional assistance from companies such as InventHelp who specialize in helping inventors bring their ideas to life. Click here to read how they help inventors.
So yes, while it is hard work, getting your invention patented in time is of the utmost importance. Do your research and get some professional assistance for the best results.
5. Make a prototype
Making a prototype might be the most exciting part of being an inventor! You’ll finally see your idea in its physical form! Still, it does take a lot of work. If your product idea is something simple, you’re always welcome to make the prototype at home. Of course, it requires you to do a lot of research, especially if it’s your first time building anything like that.
On the other hand, if your design is a bit more complicated, you’ll need to contact a manufacturer to help you. Make sure to choose a reliable supplier, so your prototype really expresses your original idea.
Your prototype doesn’t have to contain all the small details you’ve imagined, but it should still convey the main points of your idea.
6. Get some investors
Once you’ve made your prototype, it’s time to find someone willing to invest in your project. There are many ways to do this. If you really believe in your success, you can ask your friends and family to lend you a helping hand. If that doesn’t seem like something you want to do, then we suggest you visit the next local invention fair. You’re likely to find someone willing to invest in your idea there. Of course, remember to prepare your presentation properly. A potential investor doesn’t care about your passion for creating and innovating, they’re looking for something that could benefit them in the long haul. So make sure to learn how to “sell” your ideas to them.
Another way to get the funds you need to make your invention marketable is through crowdfunding. Various online platforms have made this extremely easy to do, so use them to your advantage.
7. Believing in yourself
When you’re an investor, there’s nothing more important than being brave and confident. When you have an amazing idea in your mind, the worst thing you can do is to give it up. Getting other people to start believing in it as strongly as you do is not easy, but it’s possible if you try hard enough. You’ll encounter many obstacles and you’ll probably feel demotivated at some point in your journey- so has every single famous inventor, ever. Don’t give up and keep working hard! It will all eventually pay off.
The bottom line
Bringing your invention to life can be a daunting task. Still, if you plan your journey and stick to your ideas, you’ll be able to succeed. Stay organized, don’t forget to patent your idea, create a prototype, and find someone willing to invest in your invention. Inventing is a process, it doesn’t happen overnight. Keep on believing, and you’ll certainly see success!
