Didn't you HEAR what I said!???

Today I am processing conversations with two different executives whose recent requests have frustrated the hell out of me. In each case, each request was for something that I have suggested several times over as many months. Interestingly, or frustratingly, the request made no reference to our previous discussions. It is as if the idea that each had was fresh and was their own.

On the one hand, I want to scream - WERE YOU NOT LISTENING TO ME? I'VE BEEN SAYING THAT FOR WEEKS! I've been summarizing the data in bullet points in powerpoint. I've shown the data in spreadsheets and described the information in white papers. Each mode of communication was met with distracted or glazed over eyes or fake, polite, plastered smiles. Now suddenly they are asking for the same information in the same formats that I have presented in the past.

Well, after I checked my ego at the door...yes our job requires us to leave our egos behind, I should rejoice that my clients FINALLY get it. When they think it is THEIR idea, I should be happy. When they are ASKING for the information, I should be excited. Hard as that is for me to digest, change will happen when they think it was their idea. Hey it only took 6 months.

Any advice on how I can leave me ego at the door?