I think we'll all agree that Al was a pretty smart guy and came up with some great ideas and concepts, but his quote above is also great advice to all of us in business. As we begin to look at new and different ways to do our business, we often get stuck in "linear thinking", following the same thought paths that the industry uses and we recognize as the norm. It's a path that we're comfortable with but does not inspire new ideas. Luke Mansfield, head of innovation in the London office of Landor Associates, points out that "If your business has only one answer, or one definition of innovation, it’s time to try something new. You will be amazed at the results."
Embrace the Absurd! Many successful inventors, innovators, marketing and business people started on what others considered an absurd, silly, can't-be-done idea. You know, that stupid round earth thing, the light bulb, wind powered electrical generators, the list goes on throughout history.
I love kids. I am constantly delighted by kids’ boundless excitement and enthusiasm for life, and their wide imagination. Kids have this uninhibited ability to think the absurd, imagine the undoable openly and without reservations. But alas, they are then taught the linear thinking in a regimented world and join the rest of the dead heads.
Never stop asking "what if?" and "why not?" when it comes to curiosity, creativity and innovation. Be ABSURD, think crazy thoughts, have impossible ideas! If you have or can capture that childlike absurd enthusiasm, don't let anyone calm you down or cool you off. Be different and succeed.
Just think, if Al had not thought the absurd, someone would have come up with E=ONICBD
(oh nevermind, it can't be done)
1 comment:
So True. I have seen my fair share of absurd ideas and have some of my own.
You know what is funny about time? Who once that an idea was absurd only to later say "why didn't I think of that"
Sometimes absurd it the easiest idea, but that is no fun!?
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