Brain storm - Learn how to present your ideasHow to brain storm… Have you ever been in a meeting and asked to produce ideas on the spot and just drawn a blank? In those environments it is also common for people to have ideas but not say them out loud because they are unable to compete with the passionate screamers that drown them out. A true collaborative effort requires a number of things to be healthy and effective! People should realize a couple of things to break out of the cycle of dread that plagues us as we go into the brainstorming session. In my experience some things need to be stated: The loudest person in the meeting is not necessarily the one with the best ideas. Fear of someone stealing your ideas or taking credit for them is not a healthy reason for not participating. Promotions are not always lost or given depending on your ability to perform in a group setting (despite what reality television would have you believe). That being said I want to emphasize a few things that can aid in the process of idea making and brainstorming. Learn how to present your ideas once you have them…the world sorely needs idea people and it is a shame that some great ideas never see the light of day because they are drowned out by people that are more loud than creative. Speak with authority…modesty is fine and good manners are great but have the confidence to sound like you know what you are talking about..give examples and data if you can. Learn how to brainstorm privately! Why do people insist on leaving their ideas at the office when some of the best ideas come from introspection? Perhaps sitting in quiet meditation and letting your thoughts drift…being unconcerned with good or bad…just letting fleeting thoughts come and go..And you will be surprised at how your active mind will begin to settle down and allow things to surface. Breathing deeply for a period of time can be more beneficial than escapism. I am not anti entertainment by any means but I have truly enjoyed stress reduction by virtue of getting quiet. The same thing I tried to accomplish by cramming more stimulation into my already overwhelmed brain through movies and going out…though pleasurable…seemed to have limited staying power after the event was over. Instead I use the early morning to listen quietly to the things that are on my mind and if there is too much chatter I write down 100 questions nonstop. I number the lined paper ahead of time so I don’t have tostop and count and when finished I am routinely surprised at the patterns that emerge and how often I repeat the same questions.The behind the scenes aspect is vital because I can start developing ideas and refine them without producing “thinking out loud” unvarnished concepts. It also gives me the advantage of preparing more diligently so when asked my opinion on something I charge out of the gate confidently and speak with authority. One a final note…I have a word to say about people stealing ideas….if someone does it is just a matter of time before they reveal themselves as little more than a parrot…because it may actually be difficult for them to engage in any meaningful conceptual conversation…when all they can do is useless banter.I may be arrogant when I say that..but do not let the fear of others rob you of your chance to shine! "Brain storm" written by Ken Bownes Brain Storm BlogWhat is your brainstorming technique?Share it! Brain Storm - Most read Articles |
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