Benjamin Franklin was much more than the fellow who flew kites during thunderstorms to prove lightning was electricity.
In addition to being a great statesman, Franklin was a creative guy. He invented the lightning rod, bifocal glasses and clean-burning stoves. And he also had great respect for the ideas of others.
When hot air balloons first took flight, Franklin became obsessed with this exciting invention and would rush out with telescope in hand to watch balloons rise into the air.
One day a sneering spectator asked Franklin, “What possible use do these balloon things really have?”
And Franklin famously replied: “What is the use of a newborn baby?”
That may be a perfect response the next time naysayers question the practicality of your nascent idea. Early ideas need time to develop. They need nurturing, not negativity. Pampering, not pounding.
o when you have an infant idea, defend your baby until it can take shape and exhibit its own usefulness. Don’t let scoffers and cynics inhibit its growth.