The Illusion of Originality

Why business ideas aren’t always ours, and why that’s not the point

Over a year ago, I had a brief exchange that left a lasting impression.

I complimented a fellow businesswoman on the structure of her business model.

Instead of saying thank you, she replied, “Well, at least you said it. It’s not like someone else just stole it—I looked around one day and saw she’s doing the same thing.”

At the time, I understood where her sentiment was coming from. In business, especially for women, we put so much into building something that when we see a similar concept elsewhere, it can feel personal, even threatening.

But the truth is: most business ideas are not original.

What is original is how we apply them, how we serve through them, and how we show up for our specific audience.

A Business Reality Check

This isn’t about intellectual theft or giving up creative credit. It’s about recognizing a powerful business truth:

Innovation often lives in execution, not just invention.

The longer you're in business, the more you'll see patterns, coaches with similar programs, consultants offering similar blueprints, entrepreneurs with nearly identical branding. That doesn't mean someone “took” your idea. It means you're working within an ecosystem that’s saturated with need and evolving together.

I’ve been in business in various forms for years, constantly testing, shifting, and growing. Since 2013, I’ve honed in on business growth models, adjusting formats, pricing, and platforms based on what works, and what doesn’t. Not because I was trying to stand out with something wildly new, but because I was trying to build something sustainable and impactful.

Business Lessons from That Conversation

Here are four takeaways I wish I had shared that day:

1. Similar Isn’t the Same

Just because another business looks like yours on the surface doesn’t mean it carries the same essence. What you build is deeper than your structure, it’s rooted in your experience and values.

2. Protect Your Business by Strengthening It, Not Guarding It

The best protection against imitation is to keep evolving. While someone might replicate your shell, they can’t duplicate your substance.

3. Market Fit > Ownership

What matters isn’t who had the idea first, it’s who serves their market best. The entrepreneur who listens, adapts, and delivers consistently is the one who grows.

4. A Fixed Mindset Limits Expansion

Operating from fear (“they stole from me”) closes the door to partnerships, growth, and community. Operating from abundance opens pathways to innovation and opportunity.

How This Applies to You

If you’re building your business, consider this a friendly reminder to:

Focus more on how you're executing your ideas, not just defending them

Spend less time watching competitors and more time understanding your clients

Document your process and evolve often

Stay grounded in your mission, not just your model

And If You’re Ready to Grow Deeper...

If this resonates with you, I invite you to join me at the upcoming International Women’s Leadership Retreat, a powerful space for women seeking clarity, community, and business renewal.

And for those ready to scale intentionally, the Nevalliance Inner Circle offers a high-level experience for women entrepreneurs and professionals ready to refine their strategy, deepen their network, and grow with purpose.

We don’t just build business. We build legacy.

Let’s keep creating, even if it’s not “original.”

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