Think outside of the box \u2013 be innovative!<\/b><\/p>\n
In strategic planning sessions we\u2019re often told to\u202f\u201cthink outside the box.\u201d Neuroscientific research indicates that it becomes increasingly difficult to break out of our existing mindsets.<\/p>\n
Therefore, thinking outside the box is never easy, nor is it a reflection of mental brightness. To leave your psychological comfort zone and explore \u201csolutions in the unknown world on the outside requires large measures of mental agility, boldness, and\u202fcreativity\u202fand\/or an\u202finspirational leader\u202fwho makes life in the old box so uncomfortable that getting out is the only option.\u201d So where does one start to get out of this box?<\/p>\n
Make but Challenge Your Assumptions <\/b><\/p>\n
Assumptions play a vital part in\u202fcreative thinking. However, challenging those assumptions means\u202fquestioning the everyday things\u202fyou take for granted. \u201cThe best assumption to have is that any commonly held belief is wrong,\u201d says Ken Olson, CEO of DEC. The natural thing to do is the thing you have always done. Every time you approach\u202fa problem you bring your accumulated experience, knowledge and training to the table. But this includes your accumulated assumptions and biases \u2013 conscious and unconscious. The more experienced you are, the more likely you are to assume outcomes by extrapolating from the known facts and experiences to predict a result. This mental baggage can prevent you from\u202faccepting innovative ideas. Don\u2019t let that happen or you will be stuck in the box.<\/p>\n
Ask Lots of Searching Questions <\/b><\/p>\n
Don\u2019t take anything for granted. Creativity\u202frequires an\u202finquisitive mind. Unless you ask lots of\u202f\u201cWhy?\u201d and \u201cWhat If?\u201d questions, you won\u2019t generate the brainstorming a team needs to be innovative. Always try to look at the world through more inquisitive eyes to try and get ideas in motion.<\/p>\n
Step Out of Your Shoes <\/b><\/p>\n