So you bolted awake at 3 a.m. with a can't-miss idea. Or it came to you in the shower, on your way to pick up the kids at soccer or out of necessity while trying to solve a problem. No matter what the inspiration, you have an idea. And you've got the excitement and energy to do something about it but you're not quite sure where to start.

So what should your very first action be:

-Getting a patent, perhaps?
-Going on a fact-finding mission to manufacturers in China?
-Calling QVC?

While all these steps may be appropriate down the line, it's critically important that you first take action by shifting your thought process. I know what you're thinking. Thinking doesn't seem very actionable, does it? Maybe not, but over the years, countless inventors make devastating mistakes based on false beliefs and inaccurate assumptions.

For this reason debunking some common myths associated with inventing is important. Myths and misperceptions can be debilitating to your progress and costly to your pocket book. Although it may not seem very "actionable," it's vital to begin the inventing process with a realistic understanding of some of the basics for bringing an idea to market.

The following are among the most common myths:

Myth #1: The first thing an inventor should do is get a patent.

Truth: It's understandable why this is such a commonly held belief. The topic of getting a patent is so pervasive among the inventing literature, conferences, websites and tv commercials, it's no wonder that many people feel they can't move forward without getting a patent first. Many inventors spend 80 -100% of their initial effort and money on obtaining a patent because that is the myth that's been sold and supported by those who stand to profit from it. Certainly a patent can be a valuable tool later in the process, but you should first determine the viability of your invention as a business before moving forward. Remember that filing a patent has little impact on a successful product launch & cost $10,000 or more-so unless getting a patent for its own sake is your end goal, it doesn't usually make good business sense to apply for a patent first thing off the bat. Most importantly- if you file a patent first, then encounter overwhelming obstacles later on, you may have invested in a patent for nothing.

Myth #2: If I tell people my idea, they'll steal it.

Truth: The theft of a new invention idea is actually very rare. A lot of sweat equity goes into developing an invention and this is a big barrier to most potential "thieves." That doesn't mean ideas are never stolen. Keep in mind, copying and competition are facts in any business. However, once you have an understanding of how much work goes into taking an idea to market, you'll understand why most ideas are stolen only after a product's proven successful. It's like betting on a horse. You're more likely to win by betting on a horse with a winning record than you are by backing an unproven long shot. That being said, don't be careless.

Myth #3: My idea is worth a million dollars!

Truth: Earning a million dollars with an invention is less likely than making slightly lesser amount depending on the depth of your invention. Study the process, set realistic expectations, take action, work hard and you can find success, especially if you have more than one marketable idea.

Overcome the Obstacles
In addition to setting aside your false beliefs, taking action involves shifting your approach to challenges that develop along the way. As an inventor, you're an entrepreneur who already thinks creatively. That creativity will benefit you throughout the inventing process. We encourage you to tap into those creative thinking abilities as you proceed through the inventing process. When you're confronted with a challenge, don't change your goals but your plan of action. Constantly create new options for yourself during all the steps as an inventor and you will succeed.