Change your character
Change your character
Choose an alter ego
One hurdle that we have when solving problems is our own personality.
We all think in different ways.
As individuals we can often think in alternative ways but tend to revert to our normal characters over time.
It is a big advantage to be able to think like someone else.
It will give you a different perspective on any problem.
Try picking a person who you admire or you consider has particular skills in the area that you are interested in.
This approach gives you a freedom to try out ideas that you may not otherwise have considered.
It is no different from acting out a part and getting into the traits of a particular character.
Look at the problem from the simplicity of a child or why not be one of your competitors.
Perhaps a famous scientist, philosopher and many others.
Before you jump straight in with the problem solving process take some time for everyone to consider their characters.
What are their chief personality traits?
How would this make them view the problem or ask a question differently?
Perhaps be a person who is very single minded and just focus on one key thing.
For example, low cost, superior quality or speed.
Get to the problem core
Try to get inside the problem. This is similar to the above.
However, in this case put yourself right in the heart of the problem; try to visualise what is going on and see if this will highlight any potential solutions.
Standing on the outside and looking in can maybe restrict your input.
Just like any other creative thinking technique the ideas raised should not be considered as potential solutions in themselves.
It is important not to criticise these as they could well lead to better solutions or opportunities.