5 Smart Reasons to Pitch a Harebrained Scheme

Ever thrown out a crazy idea just to get people thinking? There’s power in proposing a harebrained scheme. Something so unexpected, it startles your team out of their rut—and into creativity. The truth is, most groundbreaking ideas begin as something that sounds off-the-wall.

The right kind of turbulence creates lift

So why don’t we do it more often? Because calling your own idea “harebrained” feels risky. It feels like you’re admitting weakness or lack of seriousness. Especially in leadership roles, we’re conditioned to sound polished, strategic, and in control. But creativity doesn’t thrive in control—it thrives in curiosity. By labeling an idea as a little wild, you lower the stakes and open the door to real conversation. You don’t lose credibility—you gain approachability.

Here’s why that wild pitch might be your best leadership move yet:

• It signals openness to innovation, without pressure to be perfect
• It creates psychological safety for others to share their offbeat ideas
• It invites group problem-solving, not just passive agreement
• It shows confidence and humility—a rare and trusted combo
• It often leads to breakthroughs that safe ideas can’t reach

What would happen if you framed your next big idea as a harebrained scheme? And who on your team is quietly waiting for permission to do the same?

A harebrained scheme might not be the final solution, but it’s often the catalyst for breakthrough thinking. Great leaders know how to use that spark to generate lift. If you’re ready to soar beyond safe ideas, I can help you develop your leadership edge. You haven’t peaked yet!