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Understanding the Human Side of Creativity and Decision-Making

In the bustling corridors of corporate world, there's often a crucial step overlooked in the decision-making process: understanding the human element. Most times, innovation isn't merely about the next big idea, but rather about understanding the deeply rooted concerns of individuals involved.

Imagine trying to convince a colleague to think outside the box, to be a bit more "crazy" or creative than usual. Where would you begin?

Getting to Know Them

The initial step involves understanding the person you're trying to persuade. If you've been working together for some time, you might have some insights into their motivations. However, for those whom you don't know well, the conversation needs a starting point. One of the most potent questions one can pose is, "How big is this problem? What if we don't address it?"

This question is pivotal. It shifts the conversation from the abstract to the tangible. If the problem at hand isn't pressing, if it doesn't require an immediate creative solution, perhaps the time isn't ripe. As Jens rightly pointed out, it's all about discerning the "big moment."

The Power of Reverse Psychology

One might assume that getting someone to take a creative leap would involve pushing them continuously. Yet, sometimes, the trick lies in pulling back. By adopting a stance of reverse psychology, we often find that the reasons individuals are hesitant to embrace change or innovation are not what they initially presented. It's seldom just about the monetary aspect or hitting a particular milestone.

Human-Level Concerns Matter

Dig deeper, and you'll find that the real concerns are fundamentally human. Maybe the team isn't invested in the strategy, perhaps they're not showing up with the enthusiasm required, or stakeholders feel out of the loop. When these foundational cracks appear, no amount of creative brainstorming will fix the underlying issues. Before leaping into the next big idea, it's vital to ensure everyone is on the same page, feeling valued, and invested in the journey.

Check out the full Episode here.