Some people have no idea what it means to have a “Generative Discussion.” A generative discussion is when people talk, and in the process of discussing something, use a bit of vision, imagination, and ideation. Entrepreneurs and inventors are good at this; they tend to always be looking for the opportunity in what’s being talked about. “What If…” or “Wouldn’t it be Cool If…” or “How Might We…” are phrases you often hear.

Now dig, I’m not talking about brainstorming (in any of its many forms and definitions).  I’m talking about, well, talking — but with a creative twist.

Creative talking, Innovative talking (aka a Generative Discussion) is more than debate — which is usually about proving how right you are. Debates are rarely helpful in invention.  It’s more than “discussion” which is usually highly analytical, and with very little exploratory content. Discussions are about BS-ing usually.

A generative discussion starts with a mindset of being open-minded.

You hear that phrase, open-minded, a bit don’t you? Of all the people you know, how many do you feel are truly, really, open-minded? In my experience there are not so many of those folks around. However, when you do run across one, and get a chance to shoot the bull, wow, it’s good fun.  If in addition to being open-minded, they also actually know something about something, and have a little imagination, conversations soar into generative mode.

So, why be open minded? Basically, being open-minded leaves your brain open to new ideas, suggestions, thoughts, and opportunities.  If you want to be an innovator, in any way, shape, or form, it’s a pre-requisite IMHO.  So, without further a do-do, here are 5 Ways to Become More Open Minded and Inspire Innovation:

1. When somebody suggests an idea that is completely and totally insane, instead of laughing, being cynical, or simply dismissive, you actually shut your mouth, take a bit of time, and thoughtfully consider the wacky idea.  What’s good about it? How could it be made to work, and, if it worked, what would the impact be? The best ideas are often those we laugh at — at first.  Why? Because a laugh is usually triggered by a surprise, and a surprise is…something different.  In Innovation, this is a good start, something different.
2. We all have lists of things we Just Won’t Do.  Become aware of what’s on your Just Won’t Do list, and work at taking them off. Many of the items on our JWD lists are so deeply ingrained in our day to day behavior we don’t even know what we are doing. And that means we don’t know the doors we are shutting, the opportunities we are missing. Being open-minded means that you work at taking items off that list.  You need to give things, people, places, ideas, foods, situations — a chance.  Why? You learn new things, and knowledge is power when it comes to thinking up new combinations that spell new products, services, and improvements. This is why we often have great ideas on vacations, the new situations break our ruts up and get us thinking in a fresh way.
3. Inject imagination or fantasy into boring discussions. Want to see if there is an imaginative person inside the person you are talking to? Try saying something imaginative and see how they respond. Example, you’re at a plastic shopping mall, and you say, apprapos of nothing, “If only we could cover this floor with a layer of marbles, maybe then we’d have some fun.” Or, “Gee, I think this place really needs another Gap, one that serves only people over 75” or “Did you know there’s a secret room at Starbucks where you snort freeze dried coffee?  It’s heavenly, wanna go?” Or, “you see that guy over there in the Garbadine Coat?  That guy is number six on the FBI’s most wanted list.” Now, why would you do something goofy like this?  One, for fun.  Two, your partner just might respond in kind — and suddenly you’re in generative mode.
4. Anything that Glenn Beck or Sarah Palin say, pretty much think and do the opposite. This needs no explanation. This is sort of like the George Costanza strategy on Seinfeld.  Since this is a Humorous Suggestion, let me offer another #4, a bonus if you will. Every time you have the urge to say, “yes, but” think a bit more and say “yes, and”. Find a way to “build” in a conversation and not tear down what other people have said. This is a rule borrowed from the world of improvisational comedy. It sure works for Second City! There is nearly always a way to do this even if you are thinking you disagree with someone else.  Who cares if you disagree anyway?  You mostly!  Leave behind the need to Be Right (call that #4B, and yet another bonus).  Be aware of how political and religious belief’s, and taboo’s shut doors in your own mind (see #4).
5. Try to see things though the eyes of others. Remember, almost nothing in this world is black and white, almost nothing is purely good, or purely evil.  And even in Evil, there is opportunity. Remember also that with a few exceptions, almost everybody is, in their own minds at least, operating from a place of good intention. So, when you find yourself recoiling, when you find yourself putting up the defense shields, when you find yourself getting angry, try to step outside yourself and see things from another perspective. Try to understand.  And then, try to find the silver lining, the opportunity.

And if you feel like it, please click on the icon at the top right of this post and order a book that will inspire you to be more open minded and more generative in all you do.  It’s called Jack’s Notebook.