It Starts With An Idea

First, let me just point out that ideas come to people in every way shape or form. I honestly don't know anyone who comes up with ideas in the same way that someone else does, but that's the beauty of it. Every single person out there has ideas even if they don't peg you as the creative type. I've known technicians and medical doctors who have bested me with amazingly creative ideas. I will say this, coming up with ideas is not an easy feat. I actually have to sit down and gather every ounce of my creative juices to come up with something. Much like Calvin up above, stress and full blown panic to a deadline will usually do the trick.
What's so wonderful about the animation industry is that every worker involved has input to add to the story even if they didn't write the script. (They could be a background artist for crying out loud). These ideas may be small changes here and there, but nevertheless these changes add some spice to the movie or episode. Of course, not all ideas are put into effect, but what's awesome is that you can save that idea for later or perhaps enhance it with help from someone else. COLLABORATION IS EVERYTHING IN ANIMATION. Oh man, I can't even stress how important that is. I mean, I'm not even in the business yet and even I know that you'd be screwed if you worked by yourself in the industry.
To put simply, the animation process first starts with an idea and expands from there into either a 90 minute award winning animated film or a multiple seasoned TV show with ten to twenty episodes a season. Some stories are specific and complex (Wreck-It Ralph) and some are simple with a general premise to it (The Simpsons), but all stories are wonderful and everyone gets a connection with these stories.
Let your ideas out! Collaborate! Create something amazing, guys! That's your homework for tonight... due midnight. Yeesh, talk about pressure. Okay, my next topic will be on something that I obviously lack at the moment: Humor.