Great ideas stay hidden when there's too much agreement

Not the nodding kind that means “I see your point,” but the kind that says, “Let’s not make this discussion uncomfortable.”

But here’s the thing—progress doesn’t come from comfort. It comes from tension. Productive, respectful, creative tension.

Constructive disagreement is a foundation of innovation.

Not shouting matches. Not “I’m right, you’re wrong.” Instead, it sounds like:

→ “What would happen if we tried the opposite?”

→ “Can I offer a left-field take on that?”

→ “I see it differently—are you comfortable exploring alternative views?”

These phrases don’t shut things down. They open doors. Because new ideas jump out when someone’s brave enough to challenge what’s obvious.

So if your team hasn’t disagreed lately, ask why. Agreement might feel safe—but safety rarely creates breakthrough ideas.

Great ideas stay hidden when there's too much agreement.

Disagree. Respectfully. Boldly. Constructively. Often.

That’s how really big ideas come to light.