Out-of-the-box thinking

We generally associate it with an idea or a solution which is more effective and radical when compared to the already set norms and beliefs with respect to the problem or issue at hand.

The focus is almost always on the final result but we need to analyze the thought process which throws up such thinking. One important aspect is that the ideator in these cases definitely have a 360 degree view of the problem at hand. He would see the problem in a different light and context altogether and at that moment he is not even concerned about the ultimate viewpoint. The final solution appears only after sharp focusing on that view a little longer.

So the next time you feel like giving an idea, ask a few questions

1) Was it spontaneous?
2) Is this the way you always felt about it?

If the answer is 'yes' to both the questions, then probably you have not even thought about the issue at hand. It was just a reflex thought born out of set patterns. Take a break. Revisit the entire situation and if possible start with diametrically opposite ideas and slowly drift back to the original idea, waiting in between, to check the probability of an entirely new solution. Of course you should learn to differentiate intuitions and gut feelings (not associated with thought) with in-box thinking to be a consistent and effective out-of-the-box thinker.