advice captured in the lists. In creating these lists as swiftly as they did, they demonstrated they already had a wealth of knowledge and expertise. But it wasn't till they reflected on their experience after the exercise ended that these things we could have done became obvious.
Outside-the-box thinking can generate ideas for processes, techniques, and outcomes that are innovative and WOW-generating. But the resulting ideas will flop in a climate in which the people involved ignore the inside-the-box ideas such as those listed above.
The next time you hear someone urge outside-the-box thinking, see if the situation is one in which those involved have overlooked the possibilities inside the box. And whenever you hear a claim about someone having done outside-the-box thinking, see if you agree. Or might the thinking have actually taken root well within the box?
Our challenge is to look around from our perch inside the box and ask, "What options and opportunities are right here for the taking?"
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About the author
Naomi Karten is a highly experienced speaker and seminar leader who draws from her psychology and IT backgrounds to help organizations improve customer satisfaction, manage change, and strengthen teamwork. She has delivered seminars and keynotes to more than 100,000 people internationally. Naomi's newest books are Presentation Skills for Technical Professionals and Changing How You Manage and Communicate Change. Her other books and ebooks include Managing Expectations, Communication Gaps and How to Close Them, and How to Survive, Excel and Advance as an Introvert. Readers have described her newsletter, Perceptions & Realities, as lively, informative, and a breath of fresh air. She is a regular columnist for StickyMinds.com. When not working, Naomi's passion is skiing deep powder. Contact her at naomi@nkarten.com or via her Web site, www.nkarten.com.
