Sit Still for a Great Idea

18 May Sit Still for a Great Idea

Posted at 07:28h in Engineering Challenges, Problem Solving by Key Tech

Making progress feels good. There’s nothing better than chugging along, modeling concepts, ordering new prototypes, and watching them work.

When progress slows or I’ve hit a roadblock, it can be frustrating. Maybe I overlooked something critical or my assumptions were wrong. Maybe my prototype is based on a component that just ran out of stock. Whatever the case, when I need some fresh ideas, it’s time for a distraction.

Ideas rarely occur to me when I’m straining to think of them. Instead, they pop into my head when I’m doing something else. I might be driving my car, taking a walk, or reading my kids a story. It’s not always an “Ah, HAH!” moment, but it’s often worth remembering.

But, I’m supposed to be working. I need an idea now! I can’t think of anything! THINK HARDER!

Relax. I can’t force an epiphany. Can I encourage it? When I get stuck on something, one of the best ways for me to get unstuck is to change my environment. I “unplug” – walk away from the computer and iPhone. I get some ice-cream from the market or walk to Federal Hill Park and listen to the leaves blow in the wind. In the quiet, my mind, usually struggling to keep up with my Inbox, Voicemail, and cell phone, starts to race with ideas. I’m flooded with new possibilities.

But, wait. Isn’t that the exact opposite of “making progress” or “working”? Perfect.