When we start brainstorming ideas for a project to address a specific problem, we can be too practical. That practically can get in the way of finding breakthrough ideas.
The next time you are brainstorming, consider warming up by exploring the silliest ideas you can think of. There are at least three benefits to this approach:
1. Unexpected innovation. We never know where good ideas are going to come from. Velcro, for example, was inspired by how burrs stick to a dog’s fur coat! That’s kind of silly!
2. Pushing beyond the first idea. Too often we fall in love with our first idea. But think of this this way. If you were assigned to shoot the cover for TIME Magazine, you wouldn’t shoot one picture, you’d shoot dozens. Each picture you shoot, or idea you create, increases your chances for finding that killer shot.
3. It’s fun! We need more fun, don’t we? It’s good for our own well being and it’s good for building relationships.
What problem are you working on right now? And what’s the silliest solution you can think of to address it? The silliest solution isn’t necessarily the right solution but it will help you find one. Have fun!
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This post is part of a mini series on “12 Days of Play“
1. Joy in Repetition
2. Dream a Little Longer
3. Make it Silly
TUNING Design Co. 