If you are like the trainers and speakers I work with, you may have a big fear: How do I write about the experts who have influenced me? For instance, if you specialise in productivity and influence, can you really write a book without referencing Stephen Covey’s ‘The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People’?
I didn’t realise how nervous authors felt about this because, as a journo, I curated others’ ideas all the time. I’d research the perspectives of various experts, formulate my own views, and present my ideas alongside support from some experts and disagreements from others. Easy, right?
Wrong. While trainers and speakers often do this naturally when they’re speaking or training, they’re not sure how to curate and integrate others’ ideas into a book. This is a big part of what we focus on in my program.
For example, I recently explained the idea and purpose of attribution to a client. They had been hesitant to include some valuable new research because they didn’t know how to reference it correctly. Once we talked through how to properly give credit, it freed them to include the research they’d been holding back.
At the highest level, there are three key principles for curating ideas from others:
Attribution: Always provide credit to the original thinker. Quote your source, and if you’re unsure, research it. If you can’t find an answer, be upfront about that—but don’t give up too easily.
Distinction: Be clear about what you agree with and what you don’t. You might agree with most of another thinker’s work but disagree on a key point. Or you may fully support their argument and use their words to strengthen your case.
Originality: It’s legitimate to curate ideas from multiple sources, but your research must lead to your own unique perspective. This happens when you start comparing ideas, seeing connections, and recognising gaps in existing work. As an author, you’ll combine these insights into something new—whether that’s a fresh argument, a different way of framing a problem, or a unique blend of ideas that hasn’t been presented before.
I spend a lot of time on curation with my clients, and it makes a real difference to their confidence and the quality of their books. When they move past the fear, they gain the freedom to explore more deeply, produce richer work, and find their own voice.
If you’re considering writing a book and feel stuck on how to incorporate others’ ideas, let’s talk (click the link below).
