How to Make Your Ideas Stick

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James Parker

5 min read

Have you ever wondered why some ideas thrive while others fade?


The answers lie in the groundbreaking book Made to Stick by Chip and Dan Heath.


In today's post, I'll show you how the principles from this book revolutionized my business and can do the same for you. Let's dive right in!

Simplicity is Key

The Heath brothers emphasize the power of simplicity in making ideas stick.

In a world overloaded with information, simple and clear messages cut through the noise.

Consider the success of Apple's marketing, which focuses on sleek and straightforward design.

Embrace the Unexpected

Unexpected twists and turns can make your message memorable.

Take, for example, the "Share a Coke" campaign by Coca-Cola, which surprised customers by replacing the brand's logo with popular names.


Be Concrete

Concrete examples and imagery make ideas easier to understand and remember.

A great example is the metaphor of the "glass ceiling" to describe gender inequality in the workplace.

The "glass ceiling" represents an invisible barrier that prevents women from rising beyond a certain level in a hierarchy.

This metaphor conveys a complex social issue in a way that is tangible and relatable, helping the idea to resonate with a broader audience.


Build Credibility

Backing your message with credible sources enhances its stickiness.

The "Got Milk?" campaign, which featured celebrities from various fields sporting a milk mustache, is a prime example of leveraging credibility.

By associating the message with famous and respected individuals, the campaign gained trustworthiness, persuading more people of the benefits of drinking milk.

Appeal to Emotions

Emotions drive people to action.

Consider the powerful emotional appeal of charity campaigns that show the impact of donations on individual lives.

Tell a Story

Stories are a universal language that resonates with people across cultures and generations. Brands like Nike use storytelling to create an emotional connection with their audience.


Now that we've uncovered the secrets to making your ideas stick, I'd like to hear from you.


Do you have any examples of how these principles have worked for you? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts!