Brainstorms

Give Your Good Idea a Fake Passport

People are more open to suggestions that seem to come from somewhere exotic.

Published

14 seconds ago

December 21, 2025

INSTORE Staff Instore January 2026 Issue

Sometimes presenting an idea as coming from outside — like a bestselling business author — can increase the chance of it being accepted. IMAGE: GENERATED BY MIDJOURNEY

HERE’S SOMETHING WORTH KNOWING: When an idea arrives from far away — Iceland, Tokyo, a bestselling consultant — we see possibility. When it arrives from nearby — a coworker, a spouse — we see obstacles. Researcher Jennifer Mueller proved this. Distance makes us abstract thinkers. Proximity incites practical thinking, which is a polite way of saying everyone immediately identifies nine reasons it won’t work. The solution is simple and only slightly dishonest: Give your idea a fake origin story. That thing your spouse suggested becomes “something I read about.” It’s a small lie in service of getting good things done, which feels okay.

Closing With Confidence: How Bailey's Fine Jewelry Achieved Outstanding Results With Wilkerson

When Trey Bailey, President and CEO of Bailey's Fine Jewelry, decided to close the Crabtree location in Raleigh, North Carolina after 15 years, he knew the decision needed to be handled with intention and professionalism. The goal was clear: exit the location while maintaining financial strength and honoring the store's legacy. Having worked with Wilkerson successfully in the past, Bailey understood the value of their comprehensive approach. "They understood both the emotional and financial sides of the store closing sale," Trey explains. "Their reputation for professionalism, results and care made it a very easy decision." The results exceeded expectations. Wilkerson helped Bailey's sell through significant inventory while maintaining the dignity of the closing process. "They don't just run a sale, they help close a chapter in the best way possible," Bailey says, strongly recommending Wilkerson to any jeweler facing a similar transition.