Creativity in Business
Be creative if you want to succeed in business. So many companies just try to copy others in their industries. All that creates is a me-too business that never advances. If you’ve ever wondered why you always find it such a struggle, it’s often because you’re doing things the same old way everybody else is. You have to set yourself apart from the competition and be a little different. You have to be creative.
Here three quick tips for becoming more creative in your business and your life.
1. Ask Questions.
The only reason you haven’t found the right answer yet is because you haven’t asked the right question. What are your customers currently buying from the competition? What is the perfect solution they’re looking for? Where do your target customers hang out at online? The right questions will bring you to the right answer.
Too often we allow our minds to ask the wrong questions.
Refer back to 5 Coaching Questions that will change your life for several more questions to ask yourself.
2. Use Mind Mapping.
You can mind map using computer programs or on paper. If you use paper, make sure it’s a plain white sheet with no lines. You can also use a dry erase board like I have in my office. If you would prefer a software program, you can try one such as Freemind for free.
Start in the center of the piece of paper with the basic concept…and then brainstorm outwards with every idea that comes to mind. For now, don’t even judge the ideas. Put everything down no matter how unusual. Free associate into multiple branches as you expand outward.
Think quickly and keep writing. For a period of 5 to 10 minutes keep it moving. If no ideas are coming, simply write additional lines for ideas when they come. Don’t allow yourself to stop. If ideas about other subjects pop into your head during this mind mapping session, mark them off to the side. The key is to keep it moving!
Once you’re finished mind mapping, then you can go back and organize your ideas.
3. Have Fun.
I remember the seminar where Marlon Sanders had the audience blow bubbles to relax and enjoy themselves. If you want to be creative, have FUN! I keep several joke books on my desk. Laugh! Have fun.
Don’t be too serious about yourself and what you’re doing. When I find myself thinking too hard on a subject, it’s time to ride the ATV or go watch a comedy. Do something to entertain and relax yourself for the best ideas to flow.
And yes, that is a picture of me as a Simpson.
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2 Responses to “Creativity in Business”
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Oh my goodness! That Simpzonizer thing scares me! But I might try it anyway.
Great post! The more I’m in this, the more I realize that asking the right questions is so important. Also, mind mapping is one of the best tools going for getting one’s thoughts together and new ideas flowing.
Lastly, just wanted to let you know that I recorded my infoproduct test audio last week and should have it live next week sometime (on ebay, probably). I’m really looking forward to putting what I’ve learned in your Information Marketing Mastery System and what I learned at the publishing seminar to the test! It’s a blast so far. I’ll keep ya posted.
best,
Elizabeth
Excellent Reminder! Sometimes I find myself scattered and I know then it is also time for me to relax and have fun. I spent some time in Maui last year. It was amazing how many new ideas came to mind when I was completely relaxed. The ideas came with very little effort, i didn’t go there for that reason either.
Also, you need to ask yourself the right questions. Many of us ask questions like how come I can never do that right? why does this always happen to me? etc. We need to ask questions that allow us to be creative and think of solutions to our problems instead of creating more of them.
Thank you for this article Terry. Again, what a great reminder.