Over the last couple of years, I’ve worked out how and where I do my best thinking and get good ideas. When I ask other people how and where they get their best ideas or have the opportunity to join the dots to work things out, it’s very rare that they include time at their desk in the list – which I found too.
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Instead, I hear things like ‘taking the dog for a walk’ or ‘in the shower’, or ‘brushing my teeth’ or ‘in the car on the way home from work’. Sound familiar?
According to UK author and GP Dr Rangan Chatterjee, when we switch off, there’s a part of the brain called the Default Mode Network or DMN that goes into overdrive. This part of our brain helps us solve problems and be more creative, which explains why time walking or brushing our teeth can help.
But for most of us, our working day isn’t conducive for developing ideas or solving problems that will help to drive positive change. When we’re constantly ‘on’ – on our phones, computers or in meetings – the DMN doesn’t have the opportunity to kick in. And that can clearly make thinking creatively and problem-solving, a challenge.
So, here are four ideas that could help you and your team to think differently:
We’ve heard lots about this over the last few years but consider how you use meetings. Sometimes, people get ideas or work out solutions, just hearing from others. Is there space for that opportunity in your meetings? Do you share agendas and a clear purpose for meetings ahead of the session, giving people time to consider and plan what they want to get out of it and contribute?
Consider that people think in very different ways. Some might need time to reflect while others are great at thinking in the moment, which can spark different ideas for others, too. Don’t just listen to the loudest person in the room
Looking after ourselves – eating well, staying hydrated, having enough exercise – can all help the brain. And that helps us think better too.
Be open to all suggestions – from yourself as well as from others. Sometimes we shortcut thinking and rapidly dismiss ideas, especially when we feel busy. At other times, we might let biases or our ego get in the way of a great idea, just because it didn’t originate with us. Letting go can be hugely powerful and helpful.
If you want to create, drive, lead and support change – and help others to do that too – understanding how you think and how you can improve that, is key.
If you’d like to chat about spaces or approaches to think better, especially in times of change, let’s have a chat.