Idea trapping.

You caught a brilliant idea in the wild. It’s a real beauty. You’re quite proud—as you should be!

What are the next steps in earning your “idea trapping” merit badge?

1. Keep the idea locked up in a sturdy enclosure. A confined space in your mind is best, because it won’t give the idea room to grow or develop. If the idea escaped to paper it might turn vicious or ugly, and then you wouldn’t love it anymore.
2. Feed your idea many, many times a day. Stuff it full of fantasies about how it will change your life and make the world acknowledge your genius at last. This constant feeding will make your idea become fat and docile, reducing the likelihood it will ever escape your mind.
3. Beware of poachers. Don’t tell anyone about your idea, except in the form of vague references to how amazing and completely original it is. Never let anyone get too close to your idea, because they are definitely trying to steal it. Ideas are very rare, after all, and it’s unlikely they have any of their own.
4. If you truly love your idea, don’t set it free. This is the most critical step. If you use this idea up or let it go, you might never get another one. Ever. In your whole life. Better to punch a few air holes, buy a plastic rock for its habitat, and stay happy forever.

Part of the merit badges for writers series. The badge may be posted on your site or blog. Tell us why you’ve earned (or will never earn) it in the comments.