Take a problem you’re working on and ask “why?” three times in a row. Each answer should go deeper than the last. The real issue is usually hiding below the surface.
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Collect Solutions, Don’t Crown One
In your next brainstorm, aim to leave with three viable options instead of one winner. Label them A, B, and C — and resist ranking them until tomorrow.
Borrow Someone Else’s Lens
Find a colleague who sees things differently from you. Ask them: “How would you approach this?” Listen without defending your own view. Just take notes.
Make It a “We” Project
Take something you’ve been working on solo and invite one person to co-create part of it with you. Share an unfinished draft and say: “What would you add?”
Sketch It, Don’t Say It
Take an idea you’ve been explaining with words and draw it instead. It doesn’t need to be pretty — boxes, arrows, and stick figures count. Share it and see if it lands differently.
Make the Abstract Tangible
Pick a concept your team is discussing and create a quick prototype — a mock-up, a storyboard, a one-page scenario. Make people experience the idea, not just hear about it.
Picture It First
Before your next meeting, close your eyes for 60 seconds and mentally walk through the ideal outcome. What does success look, sound, and feel like? Write down one detail that surprised you.
Say “Yes, And…”
When a colleague shares an idea, resist the urge to improve it from scratch. Instead, say “Yes, and…” and add one building block to what they’ve already started.
Ask What’s Behind the Ask
The next time someone makes a request or states an opinion, ask: “What’s driving that for you?” You’ll often discover the real need is different from what was said.
Edit for Clarity, Not Completeness
Take a document, presentation, or email you’re working on. Remove 30% of the content. Does the core message actually get clearer? If yes, send the shorter version.