Look Inside Your Own Drawer First
Have you ever found yourself in need of something and immediately turned to the outside world for a solution? It’s almost instinctive—when we want a new gadget, a new outfit, or even fresh ideas, the first step is often to search online, browse new catalogs, or explore unfamiliar avenues. But sometimes, the answer we’re searching for is closer than we think. Instead of immediately jumping to buy something new, what if we took a moment to look inside our own drawers, both literally and metaphorically?
Take technology, for example. When I recently needed a device to connect audio, my first reaction was to browse Amazon for the latest version. But after a moment of reflection, I realized I already had something in my closet that, with a bit of repurposing, could do the job just as well. This simple experience opened up a much broader realization for me—sometimes, the solutions we seek are already within reach. They might just be tucked away, waiting to be rediscovered.
This same principle applies to many areas of life. Think about it: how often do we go searching for new talent when the best fit for a role may already be within our company? When we’re looking for fresh perspectives, new ideas, or innovative solutions, the most overlooked resource might be our existing employees, who’ve been quietly growing, learning, and adapting within the organization. They already understand the culture, the mission, and the goals, which often makes them the best candidates to bring new energy to the table.
The same goes for ideas. As a hobbyist DJ and music producer, I’ve often found myself searching for new ways to create, remix, and innovate. Recently, I started revisiting ideas I had over ten years ago—ideas that, at the time, seemed impossible due to the limitations of technology. But with today’s advancements in AI, production software, and creative tools, many of those concepts are not only feasible but have taken on a new life. By digging through my old archive, I’ve found a wealth of inspiration that feels brand new simply because today’s tools allow me to bring those ideas to life in ways I couldn’t have imagined back then.
This same mindset can be applied to almost anything. When you feel the urge to refresh your wardrobe, for instance, rather than buying something new, you might find that there’s an old favorite that can be repurposed or tailored into something that feels fresh and exciting. What once felt outdated can be given a second chance with a little creativity.
So why does this matter for business and beyond? Because too often, we overlook what’s right in front of us. In the rush to find something new—whether it’s talent, ideas, or solutions—we forget to first look inside our own drawer. By taking the time to assess what we already have, we might discover untapped potential that’s been sitting idle, waiting for the right moment to shine. The next time you’re facing a challenge or seeking something new, pause and look within. You may be surprised at what you find.
Have a wonderful Week,
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