When people collaborate and exchange ideas, they shape the knowledge and understanding in a group. At the same time, the individuals in the group use what has been discussed to develop their own thinking.

Then one day, an idea emerges, a discussion leads to new openings, or someone suddenly has a lightbulb moment and understands something he has never understood before.

It’s a breakthrough. Whose success, is it?

Can the person who asked the right question claim it?

Can the person who has been taking time out to reflect on other conversations claim it?

Can the person who has been at the right place at the right moment claim it?

While breakthrough moments are important, they are not defining whose success it was.

The person facilitating a breakthrough can never achieve it without those contributing to the journey toward the breakthrough. And vice versa.