In the business of design, a fresh approach to otherwise routine situations is necessary in order to keep true creativity alive. A willingness to explore all possible solutions to a problem, to look for additional needles in the haystack, creates openness to inspiration allowing it to flow more freely.

Where we have solved a problem a certain way in the past, we are likely to fall back on the same solution any time we encounter a similar problem in the future. To avoid this, a curious and unconventional approach to problem solving will allow new and unexpected solutions to be found.

Here is a short list of qualities that lend themselves well to creative problem solving and continuous inspiration:

look at problems from all possible angles.
– work sideways, backward, make unconventional connections — find unconventional solutions.

visualize your thought process.
– write… all over everything.

produce constantly.
– the more you make, the more you break, the more you have to help you create.

make novel and / or unusual combinations.
– what about using play-doh to control playback speed?

force relationships between concepts.
– what may appear trivial in one situation may be the perfect solution in another.

think in opposites.
– how can this not, not produce interesting results?

think metaphorically.
– story ultimately trumps fact; weaving an emotional connection reduces logic to rubble.

prepare yourself for chance.
– create your own luck… or at least be ready when luck presents itself.

Going through the process of seeking multiple solutions to the same problem not only creates more to draw from later on, but also forces a more complete end solution. A healthy comfort with failure will allow for a more fluid relationship with success.