Innovation

I Can’t Believe It   If you think you work in an environment that fosters creativity & innovation, take a look at some of these quotes from individuals from companies you may recognize.  It’s difficult to believe what you are about to read, but all are true.  It’s also a wonder that these companies ever […]

Getting Beyond the Boundaries   Breakthroughs in thinking require a willingness to push ourselves beyond our comfort zone. This allows us to get past “the way it has always been done.” Here’s a little test to see if you are more of a “left brain thinker” or a “right brain thinker”.  Move quickly, write your

Can you think of any other Cultural factors that could prevent you from being less creative and innovative?  Write them down! Beyond The Boundaries Action Tip… Left Brainers: Once a week, try something you have never done before, really. Right Brainers: Once a day, sit quietly and think calming thoughts for 15 minutes.  I know. 

There are also many of Cultural Blocks that prevent us from being creative.  Here’s my starter list.  Add some of your own. Taboos Fantasy And Reflection Are A Waste Of Time Playfulness Is For Children Only Problem Solving Is Serious Business, Humor Is Out Of Place I’m Not Supposed To Do That You Will Appear

Emotional Blocks There are Emotional Blocks as well.  There are reasons why we won’t allow ourselves to be innovative, because of how we might look to others or how we judge ourselves. Here is a short list of reasons we hesitate in getting into that innovative state of mind. Peer Pressure And Judgement Fear Of

Defining The Box   Environmental Blocks   When you are trying to be creative or innovative, there is a myriad of reasons, causes, and blocks that can prevent you.  In addition to training your mind, you have to train the people around you to accept your quirkiness a necessity to act differently, say unusual things

Mistakes Are Opportunities   Vasoline   In 1859, Robert Cheesebrough a young chemist and pharmacist on the edge of bankruptcy, went to Titusville, PA to find success in the new oil boom.   While talking with the roughnecks he heard them complain about the pasty paraffin-like residue that clogged up the drilling rods.  They added

Pattern Recognition – Antique Jug   Take a look at this antique jug.  What do you see?   Nearly all school children see nine dolphins.   Did you see dolphins or something else?  Do you have a dirty mind and see an intimate couple embracing?  You don’t have a dirty mind.  Again, it’s all about

Pattern Recognition – Door Panels    Here another tricky pattern recognition activity.  This is a classic door with square raised panels.  Stare at the white ”X” in the center of the image.   Do you see the square panels?  You saw the “square panels because I told you to see them.    Now I want you

No set of “your brain is messing with your head” illusions would be complete without something from this guy. Do you know who this famous artist is?  It’s…  MC…  NOT HAMMER…  It’s MC Escher.  Google him and select images. You will see some of the most innovative, creative drawings you will ever see.   Lon