Countless books, periodicals, and podcasts delve into the intricacies of creativity, the essence of ideation, and the disposition of imaginative souls. Yet, if one were to ask oneself whether there exists a method to concocting audacious, irreverent ideas, the responses would be scarce.
There are, however, a few obvious prerequisites for birthing good ideas. First, one must cultivate deep expertise in their chosen domain, allowing them to look around the corners. Second, they must resist the temptation to settle for the very initial ideas that emerge, pushing the boundaries of their thoughts to the utmost limits.
Let us examine the first prerequisite. Observe your surroundings, and you will soon realize that nearly everyone possesses the ability to pay attention to details within their respective areas of passionate pursuit. Yearning for a discussion on the finest bakeries in Manhattan? Dial my number. In need of the best Anime recommendations? Consult my wife. Craving a journey into the realm of exceptional single malt whiskies? Seek counsel from my friend.
If deep domain knowledge is so prevalent, then what holds us back from pushing the limits of our imagination? After much introspection and discussion, I suspect that the poet within us remains unexpressed due to the social pressures and conformity demanded by our peers.
The confluence of art and technology thrives when deep knowledge intertwines with a relaxed yet audacious state of being. It is a realization I arrived at much later, only to discover that some have already expounded upon this truth. Allow me to provide you with two examples.
When Isaac Asimov, the father of science fiction, sought to stimulate creativity among a group of government officials, he proposed that they convene in a relaxed setting like a bar or dinner table and stay free from the weight of responsibilities. By simply engaging in agenda-free discussions on mutual interests, they increased their chances of producing something truly remarkable over time, as every good idea must traverse a multitude of mediocre ones.
The Greek historian Herodotus once made a fascinating observation about the Persians, they deliberated on matters of importance while intoxicated. Then, when sober, they reevaluated these intoxicated decisions, either acting upon them or discarding them altogether.
What an extraordinary approach to thinking outside the box, by lulling the mundane part of your brain, the voice that cynically proclaims, “Oh, but this will never work,” into a slumber. Thinking while under the influence resembles the process of heating up those lackluster, literal-minded neurons, with the cooldown occurring the day after.
One of the dull aspects of corporate life is witnessing people holding themselves back due to being acutely aware of what they say and who is judging them. Do you still wonder why your best ideas often emerge during a shower or during an informal conversation about butter-chicken with a like-minded bold colleague? These few intellectually invigorating moments, surpass the countless hours spent with large gatherings of hundred or more attendees.
The next time you find yourself bored amidst a gathering of ideas, be it a TED talk or a similar neighborhood event, rejoice! You still possess that spark, you are still a cool kid.
Amogh Mahapatra's Writings 