Want out-of-the-box thinking? Get out of the office!

In my businesses I encourage innovation, out-of-the-box thinking, and the challenge of fresh perspectives, and I know from experience, these rarely come from sitting around a table in the office.

I love brain-storming. I love getting the flip chart and post-it notes out and letting my imagination run wild, but the majority of my best ideas don’t come to me sitting around the boardroom, they come when I’m putting in the miles on my watt bike, walking the dogs around the park, or out on my morning 8km walk with Graeme.

I think most people get it. Most of us know our great ideas normally pop into our head when we’re away from the desk, yet it remains the norm to schedule meetings around a table in the office! I’m advocating for more walk-and-talk meetings, away from the normal four walls of the office.

Firstly, movement stimulates the brain. Scientific studies have consistently shown that physical activity boosts cognitive function and creativity. Walking increases blood flow and oxygen to the brain, which can sharpen thinking and improve memory. During a walking meeting, the act of moving naturally spurs new ideas and solutions that might not surface in a static, seated environment.

Also, the change of scenery from the confines of an office to the outdoors can significantly impact our mindset. The break from the norm can encourage others in the team to feel more comfortable speaking up, and sharing their ideas. The physical environment of the office, with its artificial lighting, can stifle creativity and lead to a tunnel-vision approach to issues.

Additionally, walking side-by-side breaks down hierarchical barriers. In a traditional meeting setting, the physical arrangement often underscores power dynamics, with the leader at the head of the table. Walking together creates a sense of equality, encouraging more genuine and collaborative exchanges. It democratises the conversation, allowing all voices to be heard and valued. Be careful though, those conversations that get a bit heated will be seen and heard in public, and there’s been a couple of occasions where Graeme and I have had a few funny looks.

In addition to better idea flow, getting active and becoming a bit healthier will only ever be a good thing for you and your teams. I think it’s time to rethink the meetings where creativity or radical thinking is required. Find what works best for you and your teams; that might be outdoor walk-and-talks or an early meeting at the coffee house. As we strive for better, let’s not be afraid to step outside the box—and the office—and take our discussions on the move.