Why Novel Isn’t Enough: Real Innovation Requires Real Implementation

By Joey Stutson | Real Life with Joey

Ever been hit with an identity crisis at work?

Right before Christmas, I was hit with a professional blow that nearly stopped me in my tracks. I questioned my voice, my work, even whether I should finish my book.

But instead of quitting, I chose to turn that pain into purpose. My book, Real Life Leadership, will be more than stories—it will blend real-life lessons with validated research to help high achievers not just chase success, but enjoy life through it, because, as Princess Diana once said,

"People are alot like tea bags, you don't know their true flavor until you dip them in hot water."

Ever been in hot water? I have!

Now, through my doctoral work at USC, I’m applying what I’m learning to help others grow—not just in business, but in life and leadership. Because leadership isn't just about performance—it’s about how you show up when things get hard.

You don’t need more ideas. You need a system to implement the right ones—across your teams, departments, or even your life.

One of the most common leadership traps I’ve seen—both in corporate settings and as a speaker—is when people confuse innovation with ideation. We toss around creative ideas in brainstorming sessions, maybe write them on a whiteboard… but they never leave the room. And here’s the thing: novel and useful is not enough.

Real innovation means real implementation—with results that matter.

From Discovery to Delivery

At the University of Southern California, I’ve been studying the Innovator’s DNA and the balance between Discovery Skills and Delivery Skills:

Discovery Skills help us think big: Apply this in life as well. You will find answers and new Resources, and initiative.

• Questioning

• Observing

• Networking

• Experimenting

• Associating

Delivery Skills bring those ideas to life: Action is the language of the bold.

• Planning

• Executing

• Managing

• Monitoring

• Evaluating

It’s one thing to imagine a better future. It’s another to build it. That’s why I coach leaders to cross-pollinate their thinking: associate remote, disparate ideas from different teams, customer groups, or even life experiences—then create an implementation strategy with ROI.

Observation as a Superpower

One underused leadership trait? Observation. Real observing goes beyond noticing. It means:

• Being present in the experience

• Learning to describe and differentiate

• Analyzing from multiple perspectives

• Taking intelligent action

This cycle isn’t just academic—it’s practical. It helps leaders move beyond gut instinct and into repeatable, effective decision-making.

Change Strategies Are Hard. Do It Anyway.

Let’s be honest—change doesn’t always feel worth it. I remember right before Christmas, I hit a wall. A professional situation shook me so much I questioned whether I should finish my book. But something inside me whispered: keep going.

Now, that book is nearly finished. My family is flourishing. Opportunities are opening. And more than ever, I’m committed to helping people experience real life inspiration in leadership—because I lived it.

Sometimes, your greatest setback becomes the soil for your greatest comeback.

“Do not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” —Galatians 6:9

Innovation Frameworks That Stick

Here’s what I coach organizations to do:

• Start with a problem map

• Explore alternating views and untapped assets

• Prototype countertypes or third alternatives

• Cross-pollinate across divisions, industries, or silos

Just don’t forget this: not everyone will credit your ideas. Do it anyway. Because givers always win—internally or externally. Your impact outlives your influence when you’re focused on helping others win.

Real Life Application

1. What problem has gone unsolved because it’s stuck in a silo?

2. Where can you associate unexpected ideas to create a breakthrough?

3. Who could benefit from your courage to give—even if it costs you credit?

If you want help developing your own innovation storyboard or implementation framework, let’s talk. I offer custom Problem Mapping Sessions to help leaders move from idea to execution with strategy, buy-in, and results. Consider this opportunity if you read this and are a manager or leader in your organization.

Seeking a Leader to Partner on a Real Problem

As part of my doctoral work at USC, I’m looking for one leader or organization willing to partner with me on a real challenge you’re facing.

Better Together

• Identify the root problem

• Map it clearly

• Co-create an innovation strategy using research-backed tools

• Document it as part of my learning project (confidentially)

You’ll get fresh insight. I’ll gain experience. Together, we’ll turn a challenge into an innovation for your team.

Message me if you’re open to a short connection call. Let’s make your problem fun with some fresh innovation.

-JoeyStutson.com