Build cross-team respect by letting the best idea win

Every great breakthrough often starts with a spark that springs from the crowd. In 1939, when Polaroid inventor Edwin Land unveiled his instant camera idea, his team was skeptical—until he coaxed them to imagine a world where photos developed in seconds. The best idea can be overlooked if we guard our own agendas too tightly.

Teams thrive when every voice is heard. Behavioral science calls this “psychological safety”—the shared belief that it’s safe to take risks and be vulnerable. When people know they won’t be shamed, they contribute bravely.

But safety alone isn’t enough. Leadership research tells us teams need structured processes: one person moderates, every idea is captured, and we must follow through with a quick prototype to test what sticks. That’s how the best ideas rise above the pack, fueled by tangible results instead of just talk.

By rotating facilitators and pushing “why not” questions, you build an ecosystem of innovation. The best idea wins—and the real victory is a culture where everyone believes they matter.

Tomorrow, kick off a meeting by collecting every idea, no matter how wild. Then ask “why not” and pass leadership of the session to a different teammate. End by building a quick prototype or sketch of the top concept. You’ll see how letting the best idea win supercharges trust and sparks the next breakthrough.