Challenge the status quo … regularly!

Lateral Thinking ‘Question Existing Patterns’ – A disruption strategy of identifying, and then questioning, the patterns that populate our world—to question something even when the answer seems known or obvious.

 

‘When we ask “Why?”, we are often asking the more specific question … “Is this the only way to do something?” It is the easiest creative thinking ‘good’ habit I know.’

 

LET’S TRY THIS

The train seat

“WHY do I always sit right up the front of the train?”

It’s a 45-minute train commute to work and back for me most days. The front carriage typically gets less crowded, so I usually sit there. I know all the regulars up front. I’ve made friends and a great business contact … hmmmm.

Two years later, I know virtually every regular commuter on my route. I’ve made several great friendships and created new income for my business.

To this day, I always move from carriage to carriage for the opportunity to meet new commuters.

.

LET’S TRY THIS

The beach walk

We are fortunate to live near the beach.

Whenever the weather is suitable, my partner and I will make the 600-yard bushwalk to the beach early in the morning to get the day off to a good start.

“WHY walk to the beach?”

Well … for the exercise. Duh!. Hang on, maybe we could explore different paths to the beach?

We decided to try a different route and found ourselves facing a rather steep and difficult climb. By the time we got to the beach … we really did need a swim LOL.

“Good habits should be introduced early. Try this with the kids someday…”

LET’S TRY THIS

Child’s play

Why are the plates we eat off round?

(Here we are really asking: “is round the only shape that plates can be?”)

Somebody has already thought about square plates and rectangular plates, but what if we explore the shape and use of plates further? For example:

• Plates with an elevated platform for sauces and condiments;
• Plates in the shape of letters of the alphabet or numbers;
• Plates in the shape of cars or toys that children love;
• Plates with holders for your cutlery;
• Plates that glow in the dark;
• Plates that weigh the food that you eat;
• Plates with a video screen at the bottom encouraging kids to eat all their food so they can watch their program at the dinner table;
• Plates that retain or promote heat or cold;
• Soup bowls with magnetic stirrers;
• Plates or bowls with a special message that is revealed when you eat it like “Marry me?”, “You’re FIRED!” “I love you Mum and Dad (but I’m PREGNANT!)”, Dad, I PRANGED the car!”;
• Plates that play music or entertain;
• Plates with lateral thinking lessons printed on them.

(See: “Lateral thinking games and activities for kids”)

There are NO stupid questions when you come to think of it, only stupid answers. For example, a stupid answer might be “That’s a stupid question!”

Question everything … ask “WHY?”, even when the answer is known or seems obvious.

(Applicable for every moment of every day)

 – – –

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Should you challenge things that are working well?

Challenge dominant Thinking