Let’s start by acknowledging a framework or paradigm with which to view the world. With this new endeavor, a paradigm about innovation is fitting.
Recently, I read Bronwyn Fryer’s article “How Do Innovators Think?” and was surprised and moved to learn that the business of creativity and innovation can be practiced and approached in a very structured, methodical way. As the saying goes, creativity is 99% work and 1% insight. What I found most helpful about this article was that is outlined five traits or practices of innovative people. I think that each of the five traits is desirable on its own, but by practicing and mastering each, it seems that one cannot help but be innovative.
As I am inspired by these five notions and enjoy referencing them, they are paraphrased below.
Have a read and tell me what you think.
Five common attributes of innovative people:
Associate. The ability to make connections across seemingly unrelated questions, problems, or idea.
Question. An ability to ask “what if,” “why,” and “why not” questions that challenge the status quo and open up the bigger picture.
Observe. The ability to closely observe details, particularly the details of people’s behavior.
Experiment. Openness to try new experiences and explore new worlds.
Network. Able to connect and befriend intelligent people with whom they have little in common, but from whom they can learn.
