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Creative Thinking

Is the ability to think creatively a mysterious talent possessed by only a gifted few? Or is it a skill that can be learned by anyone who wishes to become more creative? I believe that Creative Thinking is a skill, and as such, can be learned by anyone. However, as with any skill, some will become more adept than others. This should not discourage anyone. After all, the goal is to improve and become better, not necessarily be the best. In my Creative Thinking Workshops and Seminars, I explain why Creative Thinking is a process that anyone can learn, practice, and develop into a very useful skill.

Creative Thinking Workshops

In my Workshops, I introduce the idea of Creative Thinking as a process, how and why it works, and how basic problem-solving skills are related. I discuss the difference between "problems" and "symptoms" and the two different types of problems that can benefit from Creative Thinking. I explain why "brain-storming" sessions rarely result in more than a drizzle, the true purpose and value of brainstorming, and why immediate results should not be expected. We then tackle a real or simulated problem within the organization using the Creative Thinking process. My goal is for each participant to develop an understanding of the process, how and why it works, and how they can use it at work and in their personal lives. Of course, I also want us to come up with a Creative Solution for our problem!

Due to the nature of Creative Thinking, Workshops generally have no set number or time limit on meetings. Meetings usually last an hour or more, depending on the enthusiasm of the group. The minimum number of meetings is three, but five is more the average. The first meeting is used to get to know each other, introduce Creative Thinking as a process, discuss basic problem-solving, and develop a thorough understanding of the problem we are trying to solve. The next meeting will be a brain-storming session, with its true purpose revealed. Subsequent meetings will be devoted to narrowing, developing, and planning the implementation of our creative ideas. 

The requirements for holding the Workshops are basic, but specific. We need a real problem that needs a creative solution. It is possible to hold a Workshop with a simulated problem, but this is not ideal. We need between five and ten eager participants. We need a conference or a similar room to hold meetings. Except for times the room is being used for other purposes, it must be available to the participants during normal working hours. We need basic meeting tools, such as flip charts, white boards, markers, etc. I can provide these if you do not have them. In addition, we must be able to hang flip chart pages on the walls and leave them there for the duration of the project. The final requirement is, of course, top-level participation and support for our efforts.

Creative Thinking Seminars

My Creative Thinking Seminars are designed to introduce and explain how the Creative Thinking process works. I give examples of how the process has helped some of history's most gifted thinkers to solve seemingly unsolvable problems. I explain how you may practice and develop your own Creative Thinking skills, and how to put them use in your workplace and in your everyday life. Seminars are recommended for those organizations that wish to introduce Creative Thinking to larger groups in a one-time setting. Although not as effective as the Workshops, participants can leave with a knowledge and understanding of the Creative Thinking process and how they can practice and develop their own Creative Thinking skills. Organizations wishing to hold Seminars need a venue large enough for their group. If you do not have a room large enough to accommodate your group at your location, I will be happy to work with you to arrange a location and a time for your Seminar.