Every product and service we have today was once an idea. Even the most basic creations did not exist before someone came up with an impression for a better outcome that would be useful in some way.

When you stop and think about it, the number of incredible products and services available today is truly amazing. In many cases, these great products have developed into product lines, companies and even industries. And it all started with an idea.

Ideas need development to become strategies. The development of ideas is not an easy undertaking. In fact, most of the great ideas took a long time and a lot of hard work to develop into the useful products they are today. This is the primary responsibility of product managers. Thinking more strategically is the key to your success.

In the fast-paced world we inhabit, it’s not easy to keep on top of your strategic game. Here are three actions that will help you turn ideas into strategic wins:

1. Keep learning: Unfortunately, ideas don’t come out of thin air, they come from experience. The more you learn, the more you’ll have new ideas come to your mind. Most CEOs read a book a week. You must make time to learn new things on a consistent basis.
2. Focus on goals: As you progress, focus your learning on specific targets. Listen to your feelings—to your heart—to understand clearly what you love and what you’re good at doing. Set clear goals that drive your work. Focus on those goals as you move forward.
3. Stay positive: The process of turning ideas into strategy takes time and may cause pain along the way. Keep a positive attitude as you go. Remember that every journey has obstacles. While it will not be easy, the course you’re taking will bring great experience and a lot of excitement along the way.

Your thinking is unique. You will travel a different road than anyone else. Keep pressing forward and stay focused on your goals. Don’t allow doubts or fear to discourage you. Turn your ideas into strategic thinking.

Questions: How do you come up with new ideas? What ideas have you turned into clear strategy? Please leave a comment in the space below.

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The Product Management Perspective: As a product manager, you have a responsibility to develop ideas into strategies. You have a great opportunity to become the strategic link from emerging ideas to full-blown product lines. Never discount your ability to make a major difference in your organization.