There are probably more copycats than there are originalsin this world.
Who Are Copycats?
It's good that we understand the concept of copycats and the poor ones who fall into this category.
Generally, copycats could mean people who are bereft of creative ideas. That is why I referred to them as poor ones. What they know how to do best is copy the ideas of others. Being original challenges them, so they would rather copy from trailblazers. The infographic below is a good description of copycats
Why There Is Need To Be Careful of Copycats
One might wonder what is the big deal with copycats and why the warning to be careful with them. I'll tell you that if these people are influential, have more influence than you do, just because they know influential people, they'll fly with your idea(s) that they've copied. So be very careful.
Some of my ideas on steem(it) and elsewhere have been stolen and the copycats are not doing badly. These Steemians might or might not be influential on the steem block chain, but they certainly do have the support of influential people (either whales, orcas, dolphins or witnesses) or those connected to them.
It is not bad to be inspired by the innovation of others. In the academia, a new research work could emanate from the section of a research article LIMITATION TO THE STUDY . However, it is bad to copy from innovators without even acknowledging them, just because you have influence or enjoy the support of influential people.
Lessons Learnt
- Try to lobby influential people as soon as you launch your idea.
- Never share your ideas with those who could steal, fly with them and there'll be little or nothing you can do about it.
