Business has its ups and downs, but one thing they all have in common is the need to find new ideas for old problems.

There’s a quote attributed to Einstein that lays this out well:

“We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking that created them.”

The same thought processes, systems, and thinking that got your business to the place it is today will hinder your ability to address issues that prevent you from growing.

A piece in the Harvard Business Review suggests that we should start looking for the solutions we seek in areas far afield from our own.  They cited a recent study where they went to hundreds of roofers, carpenters, and inline skaters to offer their observations on a very specific problem:

Worker’s reluctance to wear often uncomfortable safety gear.

The problem they sought to understand better had similarities across these wildly different jobs.  Roofers and safety belts. Carpenters and respiratory masks. Skaters with knee pads. Each was necessary, but it was always a challenge to get people to give up comfort for potentially increased safety.

The most interesting thing discovered in this research was that the most novel, innovative ideas for solving problems came from outside the industry.

For example, carpenters did have ideas about creating a better respirator mask.  And roofers had even more innovative notions about those masks. But the most innovative ideas came from Skaters – who came at the problem from a totally different place insofar as both knowledge and experience.

The lesson learned is that breakthrough thinking in solving business problems can often be found by seeking the advice of creative individuals who can come at that problem with a totally fresh set of eyes.

Fresh eyes can be extremely valuable when considering an investment portfolio as well. Contact us today at 513-563-PLAN (7526) or head online and book your free 15-minute call.

Regards,
Nikki Earley, CFP®