111. Rethinks: How to Spark Creativity in Your Communication
Oct 16, 2023
auto_awesome
In a spirited discussion, Tina Seelig, a Professor at Stanford and a creativity guru, shares her insights on the art of asking questions to enhance communication. She emphasizes that curiosity is key to engagement, revealing how reframing questions can unlock innovative solutions. The duo also explores the power of storytelling and memorable openings in communication. Seelig offers practical tips for impactful virtual interaction, encouraging listeners to embrace an optimistic mindset in their creative endeavors.
Asking questions and having a curious mindset opens the door to great communication and engagement with others.
Reframing the questions we ask and questioning assumptions can unlock unprecedented opportunities and innovative solutions.
Deep dives
The Power of Storytelling in Communication
Tina Selig emphasizes the importance of storytelling in effective communication. She teaches storytelling tools and techniques in her classes, highlighting the StorySpine as a useful framework. The StorySpine consists of specific elements such as 'once upon a time,' 'until one day,' 'because of that,' and 'and ever since then.' The goal is to engage the audience and make the story relevant to them, ensuring that the message is compelling and impactful.
Questioning the Questions for Innovative Solutions
Tina Selig emphasizes the importance of questioning the questions we ask. By reframing the problem or challenge, we can uncover innovative solutions. For example, asking 'How to build a bridge?' will yield different answers than asking 'How to get across a river?' Similarly, reevaluating the purpose of a suitcase led to creative ideas beyond traditional designs. Approaching problems with a curious mindset and questioning assumptions can unlock unprecedented opportunities.
Key Lessons from Entrepreneurs
According to Tina Selig, entrepreneurs must embrace failure as a normal part of the journey. They should focus on building a trusted reputation and see problems as opportunities. Seeing setbacks as learning experiences, having authenticity, and relentlessly seeking new opportunities are qualities that successful entrepreneurs embody. With the right mindset and optimism, entrepreneurs can seize opportunities that others might overlook and achieve remarkable success.
“Sparking communication starts with asking why or what or how.”
On this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart,Tina Seelig, the Professor of the Practice at Stanford’s department of management science and engineering and the executive director of the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program, chats with host and lecturer Matt Abrahams about the importance of asking questions about everything we do.
“Having a mindset of curiosity opens the door to great communication,” Seelig says. “The more questions you ask, the more you learn, the more engaged you will be with others.”