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Thunderbolt Thinking Technique:
IDEA HATCHERY
What is it? This technique helps you draw on the power of your subconscious to produce
meaningful solutions to tough problems.
Why is it important? By introducing a deliberate process for using our subconscious mind and
"forcing" connections among seemingly unrelated concepts, we create richer
possibilities.
How do I do it?
Get a pocket sized notebook. At the top of
the first page, write, "In what ways might I..." (complete the statement with a
situation, problem or issue you need to deal with).
On that page, write down some key issues
related to the situation.
On the top of the next page, write down
something that is unrelated to the situation--the first thing that enters your mind. Tuck
the notebook away.
As additional thoughts spontaneously appear
throughout the day, jot them down on the first page of the Idea Hatchery. At any time, jot
down unrelated thoughts on the other page. Try to capture ideas that have sensory value.
At the end of your day, look at what you
have captured. Circle the two most intriguing entries (one from each page). Then write
them as the headers of the third and fourth pages of your Idea Hatchery.
As you follow this process for a few days,
you will be continuously generating synergistic combinations from seemingly random fodder
in your brain. After a week or so, review your entries and think about the principles or
ideas behind them, and you are likely to see a solution.
What you are doing is letting the solution
emerge from your brain...it was lodged in your mind to begin with. The Idea Hatchery lets
you set it free.
What are some ways to use this
TNT? Give everyone on your team an Idea Hatchery when you
are grappling with a problem. Let the team know that you support and encourage "think
time" on the job! Even better, use the Idea Hatchery as a team to generate solutions
for problems and issues on the go...share your thoughts and ideas at the beginning of each
team meeting.
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