Creative Thinking

As Albert Einstein once said, “We cannot solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them”. Thinking in new ways is a requirement for today’s organization. Perhaps strategic planning in your organization is not about solving problems exactly. Perhaps you have not caused problems yourself, but moving ahead of the competition or taking advantage of innovative technologies requires an interdependent approach. In a competitive global environment, creative and innovative thinking is critical. Thinking the way you did last year, last month, or even last week can leave down, or worse, out.

Depending upon your position in the organization, you may or may not be deciding the overall strategy of your company or division. As a manager, however, you area vital part of how well your company executes against its strategic plan. It is not enough, in this global economy, to limit strategic planning only to the most senior managers. In order to keep new ideas flowing, organizations need a variety of perspectives that come from diverse experiences, backgrounds, knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Regardless of the level of management position you hold in your organization, consider your stakeholders when you are making decisions and executing plans. Who are the people that have a vested interest the outcomes of your plan? What input might they have? They can be clients, sponsors, and other professional experts, just to name a few. Extending your perspective beyond your immediate situation and allowing the input of others, invites creative thinking to take place. It could be the difference between success and failure when it comes to moving ahead of our competition.

What are some examples of successful strategic planning efforts you have been involved in? Why were they so successful? How much of your workday was devoted to planning efforts? Could the time have been used more wisely?

What was your role and level of responsibility in the process? As you contemplate these questions you will likely have an opinion about what should be replicated in your organization or what should be avoided in the future.

The main question you should be asking yourself is: What am I not thinking of?  Staying competitive, or even ahead of the competition, requires reliable information and the ability to think critically when making decisions that affect your organization. This is not the time to be exclusive. Instead, ask for input and be willing to listen. Combining ideas and inspiring creativity will help you find the edge you are looking for. Holding on too tight can mean you lose perspective.

So, think about what Albert Einstein said. Are you approaching problems with the same thinking you used when you created them? If so, what progress are you making? If not, congratulations. You are thinking creatively.

Christine E. Cruver
President of Simetra Strategies