Where do great ideas come from?
During college, many of my professors lectured about the importance of having a great idea. But I was never told about how these ideas are formed, and where do great ideas come from.
I reflected upon this while on the quest towards finding that breakthrough concept for my stop motion challenge. I came to realize a lot about my thinking process and put together a list of 10 places where my ideas come from, and the things I do that help me find them.
- Concentration and focus
A great idea has a purpose, and brainstorming with focus is my key in finding it. - Breaking out of my comfort zone
I put myself in different juxtapositions (taking on extra work and projects, attending eclectic events, staying informed)—a crucial aspect in keeping ideas fresh and creativity flowing. - Hanging out with non-designers
As Karl Heiselman put it at AIGA Pivot in October, “Designers, don’t just hang out with other designers. Learn the language of business…” and great ideas will follow. - Sharing
Feedback from experienced elders has helped me develop what I thought was a great idea, into an even better one. - Not worrying about who gets the credit
I used to look for ideas online, in books, magazines, experts and everywhere else when in fact, the people around me had excellent ideas and solutions. When you are working in a collaborative environment and know that someone has found a better solution than you, accepting and knowing how to work with their idea can come a long way (and is also a great trait to have as a leader). - Thinking for the next context
One way I check if my idea is worth a penny is by considering it in it’s next larger context. Think of it as a chair in a room, a room in a house, a house in an environment… - Giving it time
When in doubt, I sleep on it, brainstorm some more, or try number 4. - Creative exercises
As often as I can and most of the time without realizing, I question my own surroundings as well as everything and everyone I meet. I step back, let my mind imagine, jot ideas down and revisit them. - Thinking EVERYWHERE
I keep a notebook and phone close by just in case I need to sketch or jot down any great idea popping up while I’m on vacation, on the metro, eating, brushing my teeth, working out, driving, snowboarding etc. - Keep thinking
I was once told that the best ideas come later on in people’s careers. However, one great idea could change someone’s life. Until I find it, I will keep thinking and repeating all of the above.
-Teodora