What you are missing is that everyone else thinks their idea is the greatest idea, too. You could tell me your idea, and I'd probably laugh at you. I believe

What you are missing is that everyone else thinks their idea is the greatest idea, too. You could tell me your idea, and I'd probably laugh at you. I believe you're making some assumptions that simply aren't true. Screaming your ideas from the hilltops is actually a good idea. People will approach you who can help, people will offer advice and suggestions, etc. No one is going to steal your idea, and most people honestly won't care. Just as plants can't grow in a closet, ideas can't grow unless they the see the light of scrutiny of people smarter than you.