Beware the Good Idea Fairy: Taking Initiative Beyond Words

Recently, I found myself once again dealing with the familiar character that many of you might recognize: the "Good Idea Fairy." This experience took me back to my days at the DEA training academy in Quantico, where this mythical creature wasn't an official part of the training staff, but it seemed to have its hands in everything. We routinely dealt with people who always had “good ideas” they wanted us to implement — ideas ranging from minor tweaks to the training schedule to grand plans for revamping entire programs.

It reminded me that while it’s easy to talk about change, to throw out suggestions as if innovation were as simple as flicking a switch, the truth is, ideas are as valuable as the effort and dedication behind them. At the Academy, the number of "good ideas" could fill volumes, but the number of people with these ideas ready to roll up their sleeves and get to work? That was a much shorter list.

This lesson on the value of initiative has stayed with me, and it’s one that continues to be relevant in my current work. Interestingly, the Good Idea Fairy isn’t confined to any one place or time. In my current adventures, I still see the Good Idea Fairy making appearances. The DEA Academy was just one example, but the lessons I learned there are universally applicable. The challenge of distinguishing between a good idea and one worth pursuing remains constant, no matter the setting.

If you find yourself constantly being visited by the Good Idea Fairy, it might be time to ask: are you willing to put in the work to see this idea through? Or are you simply adding to someone else’s workload? Taking initiative means stepping up, taking responsibility, and pushing beyond the easy part — talking. So, the next time you find yourself with a brilliant idea, ask yourself: Am I ready to roll up my sleeves and make it happen?

As a manager, recognizing this and protecting your people is crucial. Don’t blindly take these “good ideas” and delegate them without considering the impact. Before green-lighting any initiative, ask yourself: Is there a clear plan, and do we have the commitment needed to see it through? Protect your team by only supporting ideas that have the backing of real commitment and a clear plan for execution. Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to work with many good bosses who understood this balance. We would often joke about all the Good Idea Fairies fluttering around, but those leaders knew when to dismiss them and when to allow one to take root.

​In both leadership and life, the balance between creativity and practicality is key. While we should never stifle innovation, we must also remember that great ideas are as valuable as the effort and dedication behind them. This balance isn’t just key to personal success; it’s essential for the growth and sustainability of any organization or community. The next time you’re struck by a brilliant thought, consider what it would take to turn that idea into reality. If you’re not prepared to do the work, maybe it’s best to let the Good Idea Fairy fly on by.

- Brian Townsend, Eagle 6 Training