Sai Prasadam, PMP®’s Post

Everything we think we know about fostering innovation might be wrong. And the answer? It's hiding on the kids’ playground. In this week's Anti Status Quo: - Why over-structuring kills creativity (backed by Harvard research) - The surprising link between childhood play and entrepreneurial success - What 6,000 kids taught us about developing innovative minds - Why the most successful leaders only make 3 decisions a day Read more here: https://lnkd.in/gyzAQm6r

𝗜𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗜𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝗔 𝟭𝟮-𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗽 𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗻𝘁 In our previous discussions, we delved into the immense power of imagination and the obstacles that often hinder its growth. We saw how societal pressures, fear of standing out, and misaligned perceptions can dull our creative spark. But what if we could reverse this? What if we could actively rebuild and strengthen our imaginative faculties? Over the next series of posts, I'll share a 𝙩𝙬𝙚𝙡𝙫𝙚-𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙥 𝙗𝙡𝙪𝙚𝙥𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙩 to ignite your imagination. Recognizing that we face a fundamental choice—to create or to compete—is very important. Competing often limits our reference points to what already exists, while creating opens up new possibilities. Each step represents a powerful technique I've employed in my transformative leadership roles to foster innovation and problem-solving at scale. Here's a glimpse into the creative toolkit: * 𝙋𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙃𝙪𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙮: Opening ourselves up to new ideas. * 𝙀𝙢𝙗𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙑𝙪𝙡𝙣𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙗𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙮: Allowing ourselves to take risks and explore new ways. * 𝙋𝙡𝙖𝙮 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝘾𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙨: Using limitations as a springboard for newer ideas. * 𝙍𝙚𝙛𝙧𝙖𝙢𝙚: Changing the way we view challenges.  * 𝙍𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙗𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙊𝙡𝙙 𝙄𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙨: Merging existing concepts in innovative ways.. * 𝙈𝙞𝙣𝙙 𝙈𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙜: Visualizing connections between thoughts.  * 𝙍𝙤𝙡𝙚 𝙋𝙡𝙖𝙮𝙞𝙣𝙜: Stepping into different perspectives for solutions. * 𝘼𝙥𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣: Understanding and valuing what works currently. * 𝙍𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚 𝙅𝙪𝙙𝙜𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙨: Providing temporary hospitality to newer ideas.  * 𝘿𝙚𝙢𝙤𝙘𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙯𝙚 𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙗𝙡𝙚𝙢𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙎𝙤𝙡𝙪𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨: Involving diverse voices.  * 𝙁𝙤𝙘𝙪𝙨 𝙤𝙣 𝙀𝙭𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚: Prioritizing human experience over logical thinking. * 𝙈𝙚𝙙𝙞𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙚: Cultivating a clear and focused mind to allow creativity to flow. Stay tuned for in-depth explorations of each technique that can help us break free from the confines of conventional thinking and tap into our innate creative potential. Would love to hear what has worked for you as there may be more effective tools beyond what meets my faculties. We are indeed ONE great community. #imagine #innovate #inspire #leadership #create #compete

Thinking Outside the Box: The Key to Innovation In today's fast-paced world, #innovation and staying ahead of the curve are crucial for success. But how do we achieve that? By thinking outside the box. 👉 What Is the Box? The "box" represents conventional thinking—the tried-and-true methods we've always used. While these methods have their place, they can limit our potential. To truly innovate, we must challenge these boundaries. #ThinkDifferently 👉 Why It Matters 1) Fosters Innovation: Stepping outside the box opens the door to #creative solutions and new ideas, driving true innovation. 2) Solves Problems Effectively: When traditional methods fall short, thinking outside the box leads to more effective #ProblemSolving strategies. #InnovativeThinking 3) Differentiates You: In a crowded market, businesses that innovate stand out. This mindset gives you a #CompetitiveEdge. 4) Drives Growth: Innovation naturally leads to #businessgrowth. Companies that think differently are more likely to discover new opportunities. #GrowthHacking 👉 Cultivating the Mindset 1) Challenge Assumptions: Question the status quo and explore new approaches. #ChallengeTheNorm 2) Embrace Diverse Perspectives: Diverse teams bring diverse ideas, leading to richer innovation. #DiversityAndInclusion 3) Learn from Failure: View failure as a learning opportunity. Each setback is a step closer to the right solution. #FailForward 4) Stay Curious: Curiosity drives creativity. Stay open to new ideas and experiences. #Curiosity #ContinuousLearning 5) Encourage Experimentation: Create a culture where experimentation is encouraged, leading to ongoing improvement. #InnovationCulture Thinking outside the box is more than a strategy—it's a mindset that fuels #innovation, #problem-solving, and #growth. By challenging assumptions, embracing diversity, and fostering a culture of experimentation, you can unlock new opportunities and drive your business to new heights. Follow Mathivanan Pasupathy #ThinkOutsideTheBox #Leadership #Creativity #BusinessStrategy #InnovationMindset

Reimagining Frames: Unlocking New Perspectives As human beings, we are wired to think in frames – mental structures that shape the way we perceive and understand the world. These frames, while useful, can also limit our creativity and innovation. The power of reimagining these frames can open up a world of possibilities and transform the way we approach challenges and opportunities. "Every now and then, a new technology, an old problem, and a big idea turn into an innovation." – Dean Kamen This quote resonates deeply with the idea of reimagining frames. When we shift our perspective, we unlock new ways of thinking and uncover hidden potential. This process is not just about seeing things differently but about questioning the very context in which our ideas exist. In my experience leading and advising various ventures, I’ve seen firsthand how reframing can drive breakthrough innovation. By challenging the status quo and exploring alternative perspectives, we can achieve greater traction and impact. 🔍 How can you reimagine the frames in your professional life? - Question Assumptions: Identify and challenge the underlying assumptions that shape your current thinking. - Seek Diverse Perspectives: Engage with people from different backgrounds and industries to gain fresh insights. - Experiment and Iterate: Don’t be afraid to test new ideas and learn from the results. Let’s push the boundaries of our thinking, embrace new contexts, and unlock innovative solutions that drive lasting impact. Let's #Reimagine #Frames #trustrmc #Innovation #Leadership #Perspective #Reframe #ThoughtLeadership #Creativity #GrowthMindset #ProfessionalDevelopment

In today’s fast-paced world, the ability to solve problems efficiently is more crucial than ever. But what if I told you that the key to effective problem-solving lies in creativity? Creativity isn’t just about coming up with new ideas or thinking outside the box, it’s about approaching problems from different angles and embracing unconventional solutions. Here’s what creativity teaches us about problem-solving: 𝗦𝗲𝗲𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗣𝗶𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲: Creative thinkers often step back to view problems from multiple perspectives, uncovering hidden opportunities and alternative approaches that others might miss. 𝗙𝗹𝗲𝘅𝗶𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴: Creativity encourages adaptability. Instead of sticking to one method, creative problem-solvers are willing to try different solutions, refining their approach as they go. 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: Creativity pushes us beyond traditional solutions, helping us find new ways to tackle challenges. Whether it’s using technology in a novel way of reimagining processes, creativity leads to innovative breakthroughs. 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗼𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 & 𝗗𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗜𝗱𝗲𝗮𝘀: The most creative solutions often emerge from collaboration. When diverse minds come together, blending unique perspectives and experiences, the result is a richer, more comprehensive solution. 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘄𝘁𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Creativity teaches us that failure is not the end, but part of the learning process. Each misstep is an opportunity to improve, refine, and evolve toward the best possible outcome. So, next time you're faced with a problem, remember: creativity is not just a tool for innovation—it's a mindset that can turn challenges into opportunities. #Creativity #ProblemSolving #Innovation #CreativeThinking #OutOfTheBox #DesignThinking #GrowthMindset #Collaboration #Teamwork #Leadership #BusinessStrategy #Success

🚀 Unlocking Creativity: Embracing the Power of Divergent Thinking 🎨 In a world that's constantly evolving, the ability to think creatively and innovate has never been more valuable. 🌟 Yet, too often, we find ourselves trapped in the confines of conventional thinking, limiting our potential to generate truly groundbreaking ideas. 💡 That's where divergent thinking comes in. Divergent thinking is all about exploring multiple possible solutions to a problem, without being constrained by traditional norms or linear thought patterns. It's about embracing ambiguity, thinking outside the box, and seeing connections where others might see none. 🌈 So, how can we harness the power of divergent thinking in our personal and professional lives? Embrace Curiosity: Curiosity is the spark that ignites divergent thinking. Cultivate a sense of wonder and curiosity about the world around you. Ask questions, explore new perspectives, and never stop seeking knowledge. Challenge Assumptions: Break free from the constraints of conventional wisdom. Question assumptions, challenge the status quo, and don't be afraid to entertain unconventional ideas. Sometimes, the most innovative solutions lie outside the realm of what's considered "normal." Encourage Diversity: Surround yourself with people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and disciplines. Diversity fuels creativity by bringing together different perspectives and ways of thinking. Embrace collaboration and celebrate the unique strengths that each individual brings to the table. Embrace Failure: Failure is not the opposite of success; it's a crucial step on the path to innovation. Don't be afraid to take risks or make mistakes. View failure as an opportunity to learn, grow, and iterate upon your ideas. Cultivate Creativity: Creativity is like a muscle—it requires regular exercise to stay strong. Make time for activities that stimulate your imagination, whether it's doodling, writing, brainstorming, or simply daydreaming. Keep a journal, explore new hobbies, and allow yourself the freedom to play and experiment. By embracing divergent thinking, we can unlock new realms of possibility, drive innovation, and make meaningful contributions to our communities and the world at large. Let's challenge ourselves to think boldly, dream big, and reimagine what's possible. Together, we can shape a brighter future fueled by creativity and ingenuity. 🌟✨ #Creativity #Innovation #DivergentThinking #Imagination #ProblemSolving #Inspiration

Last summer I read "Rebel Ideas" by Matthew Syed. It changed how I view innovation forever! Here's how his insights can unlock your potential: [1] Seek cognitive diversity: ↳ Look beyond your usual network. ↳ Engage with contrasting viewpoints. ↳ Connect with people from different industries. Why? A range of perspectives spark innovation. [2] Challenge groupthink: ↳ Be open to being wrong. ↳ Encourage healthy debate. ↳ Question your assumptions. Remember: Echo chambers kill creativity. [3] Amplify outsider voices: ↳ Value unique experiences. ↳ Listen to newcomers in your field. ↳ Give space to unconventional ideas. Because: Great idea often come from unexpected places. [4] Celebrate learning from mistakes: ↳ Share and learn from your failures. ↳ Use setbacks as fuel for growth. ↳ Analyse what went wrong. The truth is: Failure is feedback in disguise. [5] Harness collective intelligence: ↳ Collaborate across disciplines. ↳ Share your knowledge. ↳ Build on others' ideas. Fact: 1+1 can equal 3 when minds connect. [6] Embrace cognitive friction: ↳ Challenge your comfort zone. ↳ Let ideas clash and evolve. ↳ Seek out opposing views. Remember: Discomfort often precedes breakthroughs. [7] Cultivate intellectual humility: ↳ Admit what you don't know. ↳ Stay curious and open-minded. ↳ Be willing to change your stance. Because: The moment you think you know it all, you stop growing. These are more than team strategies. They're entrepreneurial levers. Start pulling them to: • Build a brand that stands out. • Spot market gaps others miss. • Develop innovative solutions. The world doesn't need more copycats It needs more rebels. So the question remains: Are you ready to think differently?

Unpopular Opinion: "Perfect" Processes Are Innovation Killers 💀 Let's be real: we're all chasing that flawless workflow. But here's the kicker – too much perfection can strangle creativity faster than a cat video distracts you from work. 🔬 Fun Fact: A study by McKinsey found that companies with less rigid processes were 3x more likely to outperform their peers in innovation. Who knew chaos could be so productive? Here's why "perfect" processes might be your innovation's worst enemy: 1️⃣ They create comfort zones (and we all know growth happens outside those) 2️⃣ They discourage risk-taking (bye-bye, breakthrough ideas) 3️⃣ They slow down adaptation (while the world zooms past) So, how do we embrace a bit of controlled chaos? 👉 Encourage "sandbox time" for wild ideas 👉 Celebrate failures as learning opportunities 👉 Mix up teams regularly to spark fresh thinking Remember, even nature thrives on a bit of disorder. Ever seen a perfectly straight river? Didn't think so. What's your take? Are you Team Perfect Process or Team Controlled Chaos? Share your wildest innovation story below – bonus points if it involved breaking the rules! 😉 #InnovationMindset #ControlledChaos #UnpopularOpinion #LeadershipThoughts

Shifting perspective is a key driver of innovation and creativity. When we view problems from different angles, we unlock fresh insights and novel solutions that may otherwise remain hidden. By challenging assumptions and embracing alternative viewpoints, we break free from conventional thought patterns. Changing perspectives fosters empathy, enabling us to understand diverse needs and contexts, leading to more user-centered innovations. It also encourages experimentation and reframing challenges as opportunities. For instance, adopting the mindset of a beginner can strip away biases and allow us to question the status quo. Ultimately, perspective shifts ignite imagination, encourage bold ideas, and push the boundaries of what is possible, making them essential tools for creative problem-solving and breakthrough innovations.

💡 Think Outside the Box: The Secret to Innovation and Growth 💡 Breaking free from routine thinking unlocks a world of untapped possibilities. "Thinking out of the box" is the key to exploring bold ideas, challenging assumptions, and creating solutions that truly stand out. 🚀 What does it mean to think out of the box? It's about stepping away from the ordinary, questioning the status quo, and exploring unconventional solutions. It encourages creativity, challenges limitations, and drives meaningful change. 🔑 Why is it essential? ·  Adapting to Change: Markets, industries, and technologies are constantly shifting. Innovative thinking helps stay ahead of the curve. ·  Solving Complex Problems: Linear approaches don't always work for multifaceted challenges. A fresh perspective often unveils unexpected solutions. ·  Fostering Growth: Creative ideas lead to breakthrough products, services, and processes, unlocking new possibilities for success. 🌟 How can we foster out-of-the-box thinking? »    Ask "Why Not?" Challenge assumptions and explore the potential in what others may overlook. »    Diverse Perspectives: Collaborate with people from varied backgrounds to bring unique ideas to the table. »    Take Risks: Embrace failure as a stepping stone to innovation. No great idea was ever born without a little uncertainty. »    Be Curious: Never stop learning, questioning, and experimenting. Curiosity breeds creativity. 🧩 In Practice When faced with a problem, I always remind myself: What can we do differently to make this better? This approach has helped me identify creative solutions in delivering training solutions, improving project delivery, and meeting client needs in ways that others didn't think possible. Let’s embrace out-of-the-box thinking to drive success and inspire change. What’s one unconventional idea or solution that worked wonders for you? Share your story in the comments below! #Innovation #Creativity #ThinkOutsideTheBox #Leadership #GrowthMindset