I find it both funny and annoying when I hear people say stuff like:

1) I really want to start a company, I’m just waiting for an awesome idea!
2) We’re not telling anyone what we’re doing. If someone finds out, they’ll steal our idea and we’ll be screwed.
3) Every time I think of a cool idea, I find other companies already doing the same thing so I give up.
4) Yeah it’s a problem, but I’m sure Google or Yahoo! is already planning to do it so there’s no point in pursuing it myself.

Paul Graham (among other achievements, founded and sold ViaWeb to Yahoo! and is founder of an early stage VC, Y-Combinator) shares his thoughts on ideas for startups. As is typical with his writings, I found this essay enjoyable to read and filled with real, actionable advice.

If you find yourself making statements like the ones above, you should read it. It might change your attitude.