Killer Innovations with Phil McKinney - A Show About Ideas Creativity And Innovation

Steve Jobs once said, “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” But can it distinguish between a successful business and a failure? The answer is yes. In this age of cut-throat competition, innovation is key to your success and survival in the market. However, the million-dollar question is how to monetize your innovation skills to turn them into personal and professional success. We understand that turning your passion for innovation into a business can be challenging, but it's not impossible. I will share my lessons learned and insights on identifying and monetizing your innovation skills without sacrificing the soul of your creativity. “Innovation isn't just a spark of genius, it's the audacious courage to set the world ablaze with an idea that was once just a whisper in your mind.” Ways To Monetize Your Innovation Skills It's important to understand that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to monetizing your innovation skills. There are myriad ways to turn your creativity into a profitable venture, and the best method depends on your strengths, your market, your innovation reputation, and what you're passionate about. Let's explore some of these diverse strategies to help you identify the path that best suits your innovative spirit. As An Employee One of the most direct ways to monetize your innovation skills is to become employed in a role that values and rewards innovation. This could be in a tech startup, a research and development department of a large corporation, or any company that prioritizes ingenuity. As an employee, you can negotiate a salary that reflects your creative potential and ability to drive the company forward. The additional benefit is that if the company is known for innovation, you can establish your credentials and credibility faster than on your own. While I was innovating products throughout my career, my work as the Chief Technology Officer at HP helped me build my profile as an innovation expert. My work at HP gave me a source of funding and resources to nurture my ideas and bring them to life. The result was ten years of creating new and innovative products that are still in use worldwide. As A Consultant Another lucrative avenue is to offer your services as an innovation consultant. This involves helping organizations identify areas where they could innovate and provide solutions. As a consultant, you can charge a fee for your services, and there is potential for substantial earnings, especially as you gain experience and recognition in the field. The challenge in today's environment is that innovation consultants have flooded the market. Therefore, distinguishing yourself as an innovation consultant requires a unique blend of skills, experience, and marketing strategies. One key aspect of standing out is demonstrating subject matter expertise. This doesn't mean knowing everything but specializing in a specific industry or innovation methodology. Becoming an expert in a particular niche can set you apart from the generalists. Next, your track record matters. People want to hire consultants with proven results. Showcase your past successes with case studies, testimonials, and references. Each successful project enhances your credibility and attracts more clients. Last, consider writing and publishing thought leadership articles on innovation-focused sites like The Innovators Network. By sharing your insights and perspectives on industry trends and developments, you can establish yourself as an authority in your field. This boosts your visibility and builds trust with your potential clients. Joining An Innovation Agency Joining an innovation agency is another potential opportunity. These agencies focus on providing innovative solutions for their clients, often through creative problem-solving, design thinking, and technology. Working in such an environment allows you to collaborate with other innovative minds, and your earnings will typically come as a salary or project-based compensation. In my case, I founded one of the first innovation agencies – Techtrend Group. Techtrend is a full-service innovation agency that supports its clients in creating innovations, technologies, and award-winning products that their customers will love. They are behind the innovations that half-billion people are using today. Techtrend is a “collective” team of experienced innovators who have helped create some of the most successful innovations in the market today. Interesting side note. HP was a customer of Techtrend Group. HP recruited me to become their Chief Technology Officer through that work and the resulting products. I am now the non-executive Chairman of Techtrend Group and still do a few projects for clients to keep my innovative edge. Starting Your Own Business Starting your own business is another way to monetize your innovation skills. This could be a product-based business, where you create an innovative product that solves a problem or meets a need, or a service-based business, where you provide innovative services to clients. This path requires significant effort and risk but can also lead to exceptional rewards if your business succeeds. I started 12 businesses around an innovative idea that either failed or was sold to survive. None of these amounted to anything significant. However, my biggest success was my 13th venture. This one worked out well and transformed me financially. It was a wireless communication company called Teligent. I was part of the team that founded the company in 1996. We took it public in 1998. The keyword, if you take this path, is perseverance. You will kiss a lot of frogs before you find the prince. Innovation Coaching and Mentoring Becoming an innovation coach or mentor is another effective way to monetize your innovation skills. This role involves guiding individuals or organizations to foster a culture of innovation, teaching them practical strategies to generate innovative ideas and navigate the implementation process. As an innovation coach or mentor, you can earn through session fees or long-term contracts with your clients. The advantage of this approach is its flexibility, allowing you to work with a range of clients from different industries and backgrounds. Your credibility as a coach or mentor will be directly linked to your track record and the success of your innovative projects. Therefore, building a portfolio of successful innovation projects can help attract clients. Offering your expertise to budding innovators or established organizations seeking a fresh perspective could be a rewarding and lucrative way to leverage your innovation skills. Remember, mentoring or coaching is not just about imparting knowledge. It's also about motivating and inspiring others to think differently, take risks, and embrace change – all key ingredients in the recipe for innovation. I've taken on a few innovation coaching and mentoring clients. The biggest challenge is ensuring the other party is committed to the work involved to take their innovation skills and abilities to the next level. Most times, people are not committed. They want access to the Rolodex. Thus, I never do coaching and mentoring for free. I charge my total rate — but then donate the fees to charity. One client that worked out well was in Europe. We met weekly for an hour to discuss their innovation efforts, work on skills, etc. Between the weekly calls, I would expand their innovation pipeline with ideas I would develop. Once a year, I flew in for an entire week of working with their leadership, including attending a special session of the Board. This work went on for years. Serving on an Innovation Advisory Board Joining an Innovation Advisory Board for a company is a strategic move that can monetize your innovation skills while providing significant value to the organization. As an advisory board member, your primary role would be to guide the company's innovation strategy, drawing from your wealth of experience. You would offer insights into emerging trends, identify opportunities for innovative advancements, and help the company navigate the complexities of the ever-evolving business landscape. Your compensation for this role can come in various forms, ranging from fees to equity in the company or a combination of both. If you choose the fee-based compensation, you can negotiate a fixed retainer for your services or opt for a per-meeting fee, depending on the time commitment and the level of input required. Alternatively, if you believe in the company's potential for growth and success, taking an equity stake as part of your compensation can be a lucrative option. This gives you a share in the potential future profits of the company, aligning your interests with the long-term success of the company. Sometimes, a mix of fees and equity can be negotiated, ensuring a regular income and allowing you to participate in the company's future earnings. This hybrid approach can offer an optimal balance between immediate financial rewards and future growth potential. “Innovation is not just the birthplace of brilliant ideas; it's a daring voyage where the unknown often leads to extraordinary financial windfalls.” It's worth noting that serving on an Innovation Advisory Board monetizes your innovation skills, enhances your professional network, builds your reputation, and exposes you to new ideas and perspectives. Combining these benefits makes this option a compelling consideration for any seasoned innovator. An example of this working out quite well was when I joined the Innovation Advisory Board for a small startup in Silicon Valley. I worked with their founder and his team on the core idea of the product, which was in a space I had deep experience in. The relationship was an “equity” only structure, given I knew the founder well. Over the years, I forgot about the deal. One day, I got a call from a stockbroker for the company asking me what I wanted to do with my shares. What shares? It seems the company was going public. I sold the shares, and the proceeds paid for my horse farm in Virginia. Licensing Your Ideas Lastly, if you have an innovative idea but don't want to start a business, you could consider licensing your idea to a company. This would involve selling the rights to your idea in exchange for royalties, providing a potential income stream without the responsibilities associated with running a business. This option requires diligent research and negotiation but can be a lucrative path for the right idea. While this can sound enticing, breaking into the licensing approach can be difficult. After all, you are essentially selling an intangible product—your innovative idea—and convincing someone to buy it is no small feat. Therefore, engaging a lawyer or licensing specialist is wise to help navigate the process and ensure that your intellectual property is adequately protected. Be careful, as several licensing specialists are less than reputable. Look for people with a proven track record of success and can show previous licensing deals they've secured. Talk to the innovators who have used them. All of my attempts at licensing have failed. Steps To Making A Living in Innovation No matter the path you choose, there are some steps you need to take before starting down the road of monetizing your innovation skills. Identify your innovation skills: The first step to monetizing your innovation skills is to identify them. Take a moment to think about what you're good at and what makes you stand out. It could be a particular skill set or a unique approach to problem-solving. Once you know what sets you apart, you can start thinking of ways to monetize it. For example, if you're skilled at brainstorming and problem-solving, you can offer consultancy services to clients struggling with a particular issue. Similarly, you can monetize your innovation by designing products if you're creative. The key is recognizing your skill set and leveraging it in the marketplace. Build your brand: Once you've identified your innovation skills, building your brand is time. Your brand is the way people perceive you and your work. It's what sets you apart from the competition. To build your brand, define your mission and vision and create a personal logo and tagline representing you and your brand. It would help if you also had a solid online presence to reach potential clients. Set up a website and social media accounts and build a following. Share your work and engage with your audience regularly. The more you can showcase your expertise in your area of innovation, the more clients will be drawn to you. Market your skills: Once you've built your brand, you need to market your skills. This involves identifying your target audience and creating a marketing strategy that speaks to them. Use your website and social media accounts to showcase your past work and your unique approach to innovation. This approach even applies to employment opportunities. Network: Networking is also critical when monetizing your innovation skills. Attend industry conferences and events where innovators gather to share ideas and find work. Connect with people online by joining innovation-related communities and groups. You can even use social media to reach potential clients and employers directly. Stay ahead of the curve: Finally, staying ahead of the curve is important to make a living as an innovative person. Keep an eye out for new trends and technologies, and be willing to adapt your skills to meet the changing needs of your clients. Attend industry events, subscribe to relevant publications, and continue to educate yourself about your area of innovation. The more you can stay ahead of the curve, the more you can stand out in the marketplace. Conclusion Innovation is crucial for success in today's market, but knowing how to monetize your skills is essential. Warning. Making a living as an innovative person is not a sprint but a marathon. It takes hard work, dedication, and patience to build a monetization approach that stands the test of time. If you're willing to put in the effort, innovation can be a lucrative and fulfilling career path. To learn about monetizing your innovation skills, listen to this week's show: How To Monetize Your Innovation Skills: A Comprehensive Guide to a Profitable Career. RELATED:   Subscribe To The Newsletter and Killer Innovations Podcast

As an innovator, you must understand the innovation economy and how your creative work will affect you personally and professionally. The innovation economy, often characterized by rapid technological advancements and digitalization, is emerging as a powerful global force. It represents a shift from traditional industries to more knowledge-based ones, where ideas, innovation, and intellectual capital drive economic growth. Unleash your creativity, for it is the brush that paints the picture of our future. The significance of the innovation economy is paramount in today's world. It fosters creativity and entrepreneurship, propels job creation, and is a potent weapon against economic stagnation. As we navigate through the 21st century, understanding the mechanics of the innovation economy becomes increasingly crucial, as it has the potential to redefine our societal structures and shape our future. Redefinition of Value in the Innovation Economy The innovation economy has radically redefined value, moving beyond traditional metrics. Previously, tangible assets like real estate, machinery, and raw materials were the primary indicators of a company's worth. Today, intangible assets such as ideas, innovation, and intellectual capital form the cornerstone of economic value. For instance, consider how companies like Uber and Airbnb have revolutionized their respective industries. Uber, owning no cars, became the world's largest taxi service, while Airbnb, owning no real estate, transformed into the biggest accommodation provider. These companies underscore the power of innovative ideas, turning conventional business models on their heads and redefining value in service, convenience, and user experience. This seismic shift represents the crux of the innovation economy, where value is derived from what we can see or touch but also from the novelty and utility of ideas. Innovation Economic Definition The key difference between innovation and traditional economies lies in their value drivers. Traditional economies focus primarily on producing goods and providing services, with value driven by physical assets and manual labor. This model often relies heavily on established procedures and practices, with less emphasis on novel ideas or strategies. Traditional economies are slower to adapt to change and are characterized by steady, incremental growth. Contrastingly, the innovation economy is dynamic, adaptable, and agile. It prioritizes knowledge, creativity, and intellectual capital above physical assets. It's characterized by rapid technological advancements and the continuous evolution of ideas. Growth in an innovation economy is exponential rather than linear, with new markets and industries emerging at an increasing pace. In an innovation economy, the flow of information is critical. Thanks to the digital revolution, ideas and information can be shared instantly across the globe, leading to faster innovation cycles. In this context, technology is not merely a tool but a fundamental driver of economic value. To realize the impact, the innovation economy places immense importance on entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurs, with their inherent risk-taking ability and penchant for disruptive ideas, are at the heart of this new economy, often leading the way in creating new industries and reshaping existing ones. Innovation Economy is Changing the World The innovation economy is driving monumental changes across the globe, reshaping industries, altering labor markets, and revolutionizing our daily lives. One of the most vivid examples is the transformation within the retail industry. Traditional brick-and-mortar stores faced disruption with e-commerce giants such as Amazon and Alibaba. They harnessed digital technology, big data, and customer insights to create personalized shopping experiences, making shopping more convenient and efficient. Another industry that's been dramatically altered by innovation is transportation. Tesla, with its electric vehicles, is not just an automotive company; it's a vanguard in the energy industry. By marrying technology with sustainable energy, Tesla is redefining what it means to be a car company, disrupting the auto industry. Healthcare, too, is experiencing a significant overhaul. Digital health technologies, like telemedicine and AI-driven diagnostics, are making healthcare more accessible and affordable, marking a shift from disease-centered models to patient-centered ones. Innovation is also facilitating change in the way we work. The gig economy, enabled by platforms like Upwork and Fiverr, is challenging traditional employment, offering flexibility and creating a diverse pool of talent accessible anywhere in the world. These transformations underscore the power and reach of the innovation economy. Challenges of Innovation However, the innovation economy is not without its challenges. One of the foremost obstacles individuals and organizations face today is the rapid pace of technological change. As new technology develops quickly, keeping up with the latest advancements and integrating them effectively into business operations can be daunting. Another challenge is the scarcity of a skilled workforce equipped to handle the complexities of an innovation economy. The innovation economy necessitates skills that differ from traditional sectors, leading to a ‘skills gap' that can dampen innovation and growth. Organizations also grapple with the inherent risks associated with innovation. Venturing into unknown territories and investing in novel ideas can lead to unforeseen complications and financial losses, making many wary of embracing an innovation-centric approach. So, how can these challenges be addressed? The key lies in building a robust culture of innovation. Encouraging continual learning and upskilling can help individuals adapt to fast-paced technological changes. Businesses should recruit those with innovation skills across their entire organization workforce. To manage the risks associated with innovation, organizations must develop a balanced innovation portfolio — investing in incremental and disruptive innovations. They must also foster an environment that encourages experimentation and does not punish failures. Lastly, government policies can be crucial in supporting the innovation economy. Role of Government in the Innovation Economy Governments play a critical role in shaping and supporting the innovation economy, particularly by fostering an environment conducive to research and development (R&D), entrepreneurship, and ease of business. Governments worldwide recognize the significance of R&D as a catalyst for innovation. To stimulate R&D activities, they should provide tax incentives, grants, and subsidies to firms and institutions investing in research. Policymakers also should aid in establishing research institutions and foster partnerships between academia and industry to advance scientific research and its application. Promoting entrepreneurship is another crucial area of focus for governments in the innovation economy. Policymakers should craft strategies to develop a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem, from providing funding opportunities and startup incubators to implementing regulatory reforms that reduce bureaucratic red tape. By easing regulatory burdens, governments can encourage the formation of new businesses and expedite their growth. Furthermore, governments can facilitate the ease of doing business by simplifying administrative procedures, improving transparency, and strengthening legal and property rights. They can also invest in digital infrastructure to enable seamless online transactions, fostering a business environment that encourages domestic and foreign investment. In essence, the government's role in the innovation economy is to create an enabling environment that promotes the generation of new ideas, their transformation into marketable products, and the diffusion of these innovations across the economy. Economic Growth and Prosperity The innovation economy is indeed reshaping economic growth and prosperity on a global scale. The rise of tech giants like Apple and Google, unicorns like Uber and Airbnb, and thousands of startups worldwide display the economic potential fueled by innovation. By developing groundbreaking technologies and services, these companies generate jobs, increase productivity, and drive economic growth. An innovative economy also democratizes wealth creation. In an innovation-based world, anyone with a transformative idea can launch a startup, disrupt an industry, and prosper. Think Silicon Valley, Shenzhen, or Bangalore, where countless entrepreneurs have turned their ideas into successful businesses. Innovation is not merely the creation of the new, but the courage to step beyond the known into the realm of the unknown. Moreover, the innovation economy is fueling digital transformation, making economies more accessible to everyone. For instance, financial technology, or FinTech, is making financial services accessible to those previously unbanked, stimulating economic activities in underserved areas. On a broader scale, the innovation economy helps countries transition from a dependence on finite resources, such as oil, copper, and lithium, to infinite resources, like human creativity and information. This transition offers a path to global prosperity, as physical limits do not constrain the number of great ideas. The benefits of the innovation economy, however, are not without challenges. Income inequality, job displacement because of automation, and privacy concerns are some issues that countries need to address. The innovation economy's full potential can only be realized when these challenges are effectively managed. Redefining Economic Decision-Making The innovation economy is significantly influencing economic decision-making processes. Data is the new oil in this era, serving as a valuable resource for making informed decisions. With the rise of technologies such as big data and AI, businesses, and governments have access to a wealth of data that can be harnessed for strategic decision-making. For instance, predictive analytics can provide insights into future market trends, enabling businesses to make proactive decisions and stay competitive. Moreover, the speed of innovation is prompting companies to be more agile in their decision-making. The traditional long-term planning approach is being replaced with a more flexible approach that allows for quick adjustments in response to dynamic market conditions. Simultaneously, governments are already leveraging innovation to make smarter policy decisions supporting economic growth. For example, they are using digital tools to analyze societal trends and citizens’ needs to inform policy-making. Benefits of the Innovation Economy The innovation economy extends its benefits across individuals, organizations, and society. For individuals, it offers exciting career opportunities in emerging fields and promises a higher quality of life through technological advancements. Education, healthcare, and daily routines are transformed by the novelty of apps and innovative technologies, enriching individual experiences and opportunities. Organizations stand to gain significantly too. The innovation economy encourages a culture of constant evolution, pushing enterprises to adapt, rethink their strategies, and stay competitive. It enables businesses to increase their operational efficiency through automation and data-driven decision-making, leading to higher productivity and profitability. From a societal perspective, the innovation economy has the potential to drive economic growth and prosperity. It democratizes wealth creation, allows for efficient resource allocation, and fosters a more inclusive economy. The innovation economy can play a pivotal role in creating a more equitable society by catalyzing job creation and promoting sustainable growth. Conclusion The innovation economy holds immense potential for individuals, organizations, and society. Key to unlocking this potential is fostering a mindset that embraces collaboration, creativity, and continuous learning. By understanding the innovation economy and its implications, we can create a more prosperous world for everyone driven by human creativity and innovative ideas. The way forward is to embrace the intrinsic power of the innovation economy. The future is ripe with opportunity, and it belongs to those who are ready to shape it. To learn about understanding the innovation economy, listen to this week's show: Understanding the Innovation Economy and Its Impact on Our World. RELATED:   Subscribe To The Newsletter and Killer Innovations Podcast

The world we inhabit is constantly changing. From the technological advances of interconnectivity to the global movements that bring about social change, nothing seems stagnant for long. But often, it's not the sweeping revolutions that move us forward – it's the small, everyday changes that can create a ripple effect and have a big impact on our lives. The Myth of Big Innovations The prevailing belief is that only grand, monumental innovations can orchestrate significant change. This mindset, however, can be misleading. It often overlooks the transformative power of small innovations – the subtle yet impactful adjustments that often lay the foundation for large-scale change. Consider the evolution of the smartphone, which wasn't born out of a sudden, revolutionary idea. It was the product of numerous small innovations stacked over time – a gradual progression from landline phones to mobile phones and internet-enabled devices. Each seemingly insignificant incremental step was a critical component of the transformative technology we now cannot imagine living without. Consequently, we need to debunk the myth that only monumental disruptive innovations create a significant impact. The reality is that small, incremental innovations hold tremendous potential and often serve as the building blocks of the larger, more revolutionary changes we celebrate. Surprising Examples of Small Innovations with Major Impact Let's look at several examples highlighting the tremendous potential of small innovations with outsized impacts. The Mouse Wheel This seemingly insignificant feature now seen on almost every mouse was not originally part of the design. It was only introduced in 1995 by the Microsoft IntelliMouse. Before the advent of the mouse wheel, users had to drag the scrollbar to navigate through the content, which was often cumbersome and time-consuming. The introduction of the mouse wheel brought about a significant shift in how users interacted with their computers. It allowed quick and seamless scrolling through documents and web pages, significantly improving navigation efficiency. This small, incremental innovation also enhanced productivity and enriched the overall user experience, contributing to the broader goal of making technology more intuitive and user-friendly. Today, it's hard to imagine a mouse without a scroll wheel. QR Codes The QR Code, or Quick Response Code, is a two-dimensional barcode initially created by the automotive industry in Japan in 1994. It was originally developed by Denso Wave, a subsidiary of Toyota, to track car parts during manufacturing. The QR Code improved on the traditional barcode, capable of storing significantly larger information and being read from any angle. Its initial application was limited to the auto manufacturing process, but its potential for broader use was quickly recognized. In the years that followed, with the advancement of smartphones equipped with cameras, the QR Code was used in various public and commercial applications. Its first use outside the automotive industry was marketing, as companies used QR Codes for promotional purposes. It went on to facilitate a wide range of use cases, from contactless payments to ticket validations and quick website access. The QR Code made life easier and more efficient in countless ways. Contactless Payments Contactless payments took shape in the late 1990s and were born out of the desire for faster and more convenient methods. The first hint of this technology was when Mobil introduced the Speedpass in 1997, a keychain device that allowed customers to pay at gas stations by simply waving the device near the pump. However, it wasn't until 2007 that the first contactless credit cards started appearing, with Mastercard's PayPass and Visa's payWave leading the charge. These credit cards were embedded with a chip and an antenna allowing data transfer via Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. Customers could now pay for their transactions by simply tapping their card against the payment terminal, eliminating the need for swiping the card or entering a PIN. The innovation didn't stop there. With the advent of smartphones and Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, the stage was set for the next evolution in contactless payments: mobile wallets. In 2011, Google launched Google Wallet, the first mobile wallet in the United States. It enabled users to store their phone card information and make payments by tapping their device against a payment terminal. Today, contactless payments have become the norm in many parts of the world, with several other players like Apple Pay and Samsung Pay joining the fray. What started as a simple idea to make payments faster and more convenient has transformed how we transact, impacting millions of consumers and businesses worldwide. I LED Lighting LED lighting, an innovation that revolutionized the world of artificial illumination, has humble origins in the early 20th century. The principle theory behind LEDs, or Light Emitting Diodes, was discovered in 1907 by British experimenter H. J. Round. However, it wasn't until the 1960s that practical applications of LEDs were first explored. Nick Holonyak Jr., an engineer at General Electric, is credited with inventing the first practical visible-spectrum LED in 1962. The earliest LEDs only emitted a low-intensity red light, which found its use in calculators and watches. Over the next few decades, the technology gradually improved, with the development of new materials allowing for LED lights of different colors, including the white light we see today. However, these early white LEDs were expensive and inefficient, limiting their usage to specific applications. The first practical LED display was developed at HP Labs in 1968. Howard Borden and Gerald Pighini led its development. The LED displays used integrated LED circuit technology and was the first intelligent LED display. It was a revolution in digital display technology, becoming the basis for later LED displays. The real breakthrough in LED technology came in the mid-1990s when a team of researchers led by Shuji Nakamura, then working at Nichia in Japan, developed the high-brightness blue LED. This game-changer; made it possible to create white light by combining blue light with phosphor, which improved efficiency and reduced the cost of LED lighting. The transformation from traditional incandescent bulbs to LEDs has resulted in substantial energy savings and a reduced carbon footprint worldwide. According to the US Department of Energy, LED lights use at least 75% less energy and last 25 times longer than incandescent lighting. Today, LED lighting is everywhere, from our homes and offices to our streets and vehicles. 3D Printing The roots of 3D Printing, or additive manufacturing, can be traced back to the 1980s. Chuck Hull, an engineer, and physicist, invented the first 3D printing process known as “stereolithography” in 1984 based on the inspiration from traditional Printing and applying its concepts to 3D objects. Hull's invention allowed for the creation of 3D objects by successively layering thin sheets of ultraviolet photo-curable material one on top of the other. This process marked a significant shift from traditional manufacturing methods, which were largely subtractive, involving cutting or drilling parts from larger materials. Hull's company, 3D Systems, commercialized the first 3D printer 1987. However, the technology was expensive and primarily used for industrial prototyping. It wasn't until the 21st century, with technological advances and lower-cost 3D printers, that the process became more accessible to a broader market. The subsequent significant development in 3D Printing came in 2009 when the UK's RepRap project, a university-based initiative, created the first self-replicating 3D printer. This printer could print its parts, dramatically reducing the cost and increasing the accessibility of 3D printing technology. Today, 3D Printing's influence can be seen across various industries. From automotive and aerospace, where it's used for creating prototypes and complex parts, to the medical field, where it's used for producing custom prosthetics and even human tissues, 3D Printing continues to push the boundaries of innovation. Its potential in transforming production processes and customizing products to individual needs is only beginning to be realized, marking a new era in manufacturing and design. HDMI Cables High-Definition Multimedia Interface, or HDMI, is a technology that has dramatically simplified and improved how we connect our audio and video devices. The development of HDMI can be traced back to 2002, when seven prominent electronics manufacturers, including Sony, Philips, and Toshiba, collaborated to create a single cable that could transmit uncompressed audio and video signals. This was a significant departure from the multitude of cables that were previously required for this purpose, such as composite, S-video, and VGA cables. The simplicity and effectiveness of HDMI were apparent, and it quickly gained acceptance in the consumer electronics industry. In addition to simplifying the setup process, HDMI cables offered significant improvements in audio and video quality. They could transmit high-definition (HD) and later ultra-high-definition (UHD) signals, offering a far superior viewing experience to standard-definition signals. In the years following its introduction, HDMI standards have continued to evolve, with new versions offering improved functionality, higher speeds, and better signal quality. Today, HDMI is the de facto standard for connecting high-definition devices, from televisions and projectors to gaming consoles and computers. Its widespread adoption is a testament to its success in simplifying our digital lives and delivering high-quality audio and video experiences. Slinky The Slinky, a beloved children's toy and a marvel of physics, has an interesting origin story that dates back to the 1940s. It was invented by naval engineer Richard James, who accidentally discovered the toy. James knocked over a sample coil while working on a project to develop springs for stabilizing sensitive equipment aboard ships. To his amazement, the coil “walked” down the stack of books, onto the tabletop, and then onto the floor, where it re-coiled itself. James saw potential in this, and in 1945, he and his wife Betty launched James Industries, producing the first Slinkys. What started as a simple toy has found unexpected applications in diverse fields. In science classrooms worldwide, Slinkys demonstrate wave properties, harmonic motion, and energy propagation. The toy's ability to ‘walk' down steps demonstrates essential physics principles, particularly converting potential energy into kinetic energy. Scientists have even used Slinkys in seismology to model P and S waves during earthquakes. Moreover, in music, the Slinky has been used as an improvised musical instrument, and its unique sound is used in the production of various songs and soundtracks. The Slinky's journey from accidental discovery to a household name demonstrates the fascinating interplay between simple concepts and far-reaching applications. Its popularity as a toy and a teaching tool continues to endure, proving that sometimes, the simplest ideas can have the most profound impacts. Lessons Learned from These Innovations The innovations detailed above provide valuable lessons applicable to multiple fields: Embrace Serendipity: As seen in the creation of the Slinky, sometimes a chance observation can lead to a groundbreaking invention. Keeping an open mind and seeing the potential in unexpected occurrences is essential. Collaboration is Key: The development of HDMI was a collaborative effort by several electronics manufacturers. This underscores the importance of collaboration in driving innovation. Simplicity Sells: Both the Slinky and HDMI cables highlight how simplicity can drive user adoption. The Slinky's simple physics and HDMI's single-cable solution both won over consumers with their straightforward, easy-to-understand design. Evolution is Essential: Like 3D printing technology and HDMI standards, successful inventions often need to evolve to meet changing consumer demands and technological advancements. Cross-Disciplinary Influence: The Slinky, originally a toy, found applications in education, seismology, and music. This demonstrates that innovations can have far-reaching impacts across various disciplines, often beyond their intended use. Enhance User Experience: Contactless payments and the mouse wheel highlight the importance of user experience when developing new technologies or improving existing ones. A positive user experience can lead to rapid adoption and customer satisfaction. Understand User Needs: The success of the mouse wheel underscores the importance of understanding user needs and behaviors. By addressing a specific user need (easy navigation), the mouse wheel significantly improved the functionality of the computer mouse. Seamless Integration: As demonstrated by contactless payments, seamless integration of technology into everyday routines can lead to widespread adoption. This requires a deep understanding of the context in which the technology will be used and designing solutions that fit naturally into that context. How To Identify Small Innovations Identifying potential small innovations in everyday life can be achieved through various strategies: Mindful Observation: Pay attention to your daily routines and those of others. Look for inefficiencies, inconveniences, and pain points. These are opportunities for improvement and innovation. Welcome Feedback: Feedback, whether from colleagues, friends, or family, can help identify gaps or areas for improvement that you may have overlooked. Staying Updated: Follow trends and advancements in technology, science, and other fields of interest. These can inspire new ideas or enhancements to existing objects or processes. Experimentation: Don't be afraid to experiment. Some of the most impactful innovations arise from trials and iterations. Cross-Pollination of Ideas: Apply solutions or concepts from one field to another. This can lead to innovative solutions that might not have been apparent within the original context. Remember, it's not always about creating something entirely new. Often, the most influential innovations are those that improve or refine existing processes or tools, making life easier, more efficient, or more enjoyable. Conclusion Small innovations' profound impact often extends far beyond their original purpose or field. From the accidental invention of the Slinky to the intentional design of HDMI cables and contactless payments, these examples demonstrate how simple ideas can transform into groundbreaking innovations. So, look around you, engage with your world, and don't stop experimenting with ideas, no matter how small or simple they may seem. Remember, even the most straightforward idea has the potential to create a ripple effect, leading to significant improvements and far-reaching impacts. So, keep innovating, keep improving, and remember – no idea is too small to make a big difference!   To learn about creating revolutionary ripples, listen to this week's show: Revolutionary Ripples – How Small Innovations Can Create a Big Impact. RELATED:   Subscribe To The Newsletter and Killer Innovations Podcast

Have you ever found yourself stuck in a creative rut, unable to develop fresh ideas? Or maybe you struggle to find inspiration for a new project or task. It can be frustrating and discouraging, but you're not alone. It's easy to fall into a routine and rely on the same old ways to find ideas, but we limit our creative potential by doing so. In this post, we will explore ten uncommon and non-obvious ways to spark your creativity and find new ideas. These techniques can serve as a starting point to get you out of your comfort zone and help you find new ideas. So, grab your pen and paper, and let's dive in! Finding New Ideas Let's jump into the diverse methods you can employ to rejuvenate your thought process and stimulate your imagination. These strategies are designed to shake up your usual routines by offering new perspectives. The goal is not only to inspire fresh ideas but also to revolutionize how you approach creativity in your everyday life. 1) Mine your old ideas: Mining your old ideas not only includes flipping through old journal entries or project archives but also involves revisiting past conversations, failed projects, or ideas that sparked your interest but couldn't see the light of day due to various constraints. Sometimes the missing link in those ideas was the lack of a particular skill or resource at that time, which you might have acquired now. Try to view your old ideas with a new lens. Consider the changes in the environment, technology, or even your own perspective that could give these ideas a new life. Has there been a shift in market demands? Have new tools become available that could overcome previous obstacles? How has your own view evolved over time? Moreover, it's essential to remember that creativity is not a linear process. An idea that seemed irrelevant or impossible in the past could perfectly fit into a new context. This practice of revisiting and revamping your old ideas is like a treasure hunt where you're not only searching for gold but also refining it to create something valuable in the present. With this approach, you're not starting from a blank slate, but you're building on a foundation already laid, albeit in the past. So, flip through those old notebooks, revisit those brainstorming sessions, and give your past ideas a chance to infuse new life into your present creativity. 2) Think Add-Ons Instead of always striving for brand-new ideas, why not improve on what already exists? Building upon an existing idea is often less daunting than creating something completely new. An “add-on” approach encourages critical evaluation and improvement of established concepts. The beauty of this method lies in its simplicity; just take what's already there and make it better. This could be an existing product, a service, or a process in your daily life or work that you believe could be enhanced. Consider technology upgrades as an example. Each new smartphone or software application version is fundamentally an add-on, a series of improvements and enhancements to an existing product. These updates are based on customer feedback, market trends, and technological advancements, demonstrating that you don’t always need to reinvent the wheel to innovate. This strategy requires an analytical mindset and a focus on problem-solving. Begin by identifying a product, service, or process you believe has room for improvement. Then, brainstorm ways in which it could be enhanced. Remember, even small changes can have a significant impact, leading to a breakthrough idea. 3) Think macro: Thinking macro is about shifting your focus from the minute details and considering the overall impact or implications. This approach requires you to constantly question and analyze the broader implications of your idea, its potential evolution, and how it fits into a larger context or ecosystem. For instance, if you were developing a sustainable product, you wouldn't just consider the immediate benefits, such as reducing waste or using recycled materials. You'd need to consider the long-term effects on the environment, and the market shifts towards sustainability, how your product could influence consumer behavior, and how it could drive industry standards towards more eco-friendly practices. This broad, macro view can open up new avenues for creativity. It enables you to identify gaps, challenges, and opportunities on a larger scale, which could lead to bigger and bolder ideas. It encourages you to think beyond the immediate scope of your project and consider how your idea could have a wider-reaching impact or influence. 4) Embrace unexpected learning: Embracing unexpected learning is about venturing into the unfamiliar and embracing the lessons that come with it. This approach exposes you to fresh perspectives, different cultures, unique skills, and a wealth of knowledge that may be completely unrelated to your current project or area of expertise. However, it's precisely this novelty that can spark innovative ideas. Take, for instance, the act of learning a new language. It's not just about memorizing vocabulary and grammar rules. It involves understanding the culture, the nuances, and the thought processes of those who speak that language. This new understanding can provide a fresh lens through which to view your projects, perhaps leading to a creative breakthrough. Similarly, reading a book outside your usual genre can expose you to different writing styles, themes, and perspectives that you may have never considered before. These new insights could offer unique angles or solutions to the challenges you're facing in your creative process. Moreover, unexpected learning can come from less formal avenues. Even watching a documentary, attending a local event, or having a conversation with a stranger can offer unexpected insights and inspiration. The key to embracing unexpected learning is to remain open-minded and curious. It's about stepping out of your comfort zone and being receptive to new experiences and knowledge, regardless of how relevant they may seem at first. This mindset can enrich your understanding, broaden your horizons, and, ultimately, fuel your creativity. So, make it a habit to learn something new and unexpected regularly, and watch as your creativity flourishes. 5) Reverse brainstorming: Reverse brainstorming is a creative problem-solving technique that encourages you to challenge conventional thinking and approach problems differently. This method is especially useful when traditional brainstorming techniques fail to generate novel solutions or when you are stuck in a rut of typical, predictable thinking patterns. In reverse brainstorming, you first pose the problem in reverse. For instance, if your original problem was, “How can we improve customer service?” you might ask, “How could we make our customer service worse?” This reversal can dislodge habitual thinking, allowing for a more unrestricted flow of ideas. The next step involves listing as many responses as possible, no matter how absurd or improbable they might seem. This phase is about quantity over quality, promoting free thought and encouraging out-of-the-box thinking. It's important that during this phase, judgment is suspended, and every idea is accepted. Finally, you take these “reverse solutions” and flip them back into solutions for the original problem. This might involve directly contradicting the reverse solution or simply using it as a springboard to inspire new, constructive ideas. For example, if one of your “worsening” ideas was “make customers wait a long time to get help,” a corresponding solution could be “implement a live chat feature on our website to provide immediate assistance.” By flipping the problem on its head, reverse brainstorming can help you uncover unique solutions you might otherwise overlook. This technique broadens your creative thinking and offers a fun and interesting twist to problem-solving sessions. 6) Brainwriting: Brainwriting encourages individual ideation and creativity by allowing participants to express their ideas in writing rather than verbalizing them. This method can be particularly advantageous in diverse groups where some individuals may be more reserved or less comfortable sharing ideas out loud. In a brainwriting session, each participant starts with a sheet of paper and writes down their ideas related to the problem or topic. The sheets are passed to the next person, usually a few minutes after a predetermined time. Each participant then reads the ideas on the new sheet they receive and uses them as inspiration to generate more ideas, which they then add to the sheet. This process continues until all participants have had the chance to contribute to each sheet. Brainwriting fosters a non-judgmental environment where all ideas are valued, and there's no fear of instant criticism. This can often result in a wider variety of ideas, as participants are free to jot down even the most outlandish thoughts without fear of immediate critique. It also ensures that everyone's voice is equally heard, regardless of their communication style, personality type, or role in the organization. Moreover, brainwriting can lead to a snowball effect of creativity, as each participant's ideas can inspire and build upon others. This cumulative process can lead to innovative solutions that might not emerge in a traditional brainstorming session. 7) Using Metaphors: Metaphors are a powerful tool for enhancing creativity. By likening one thing to another, metaphors allow us to see connections and relationships that we might otherwise miss. Consider, for example, the challenge of improving a company's workflow. Instead of viewing it through the traditional lens of processes and systems, imagine it as a river. The inputs are the river's source, the departments or stages are the various twists and turns, and the output is the sea. This metaphor might prompt questions like: Where is the river flowing smoothly? Where are there blockages or slow points? How can we increase the flow rate? Such a perspective can inspire innovative solutions such as removing unnecessary steps (clearing blockages) or improving communication (enhancing the flow). Using metaphors can also help in communicating complex ideas in a relatable way. For instance, describing a computer's processor as a “brain” can make it more comprehensible to non-tech-savvy individuals. However, while metaphors can open doors to creativity, it's important to use them selectively. Overuse or misuse of metaphors can lead to confusion rather than clarity. Like any other creative tool, their effectiveness lies in their appropriate and thoughtful application. 8) Mindfulness: When we practice mindfulness, we tune into what we’re sensing in the present moment rather than rehashing the past or imagining the future. This heightened awareness can enhance our understanding, allowing us to see familiar things in a new light, thereby sparking innovative ideas. Often, our minds are cluttered with thoughts and concerns that distract us from the present moment. By practicing mindfulness, we can learn to quiet these distractions and increase our mental clarity, making room for creativity to flourish. Moreover, mindfulness can help us manage stress and improve our overall emotional well-being, creating a healthier mental environment for creativity. It enables us to gain insights into our emotions, helping us understand how they can influence our thinking processes. By recognizing these patterns, we can create mental space for innovative thinking. 9) Embracing Limitations: Often, constraints are viewed as obstacles, but in the creative process, they can serve as catalysts for innovation. When faced with restrictions, our brains are compelled to think differently, push boundaries, and devise inventive solutions that wouldn't have come to light in a limitless environment. For instance, consider the scenario of designing a product with a limited budget. This financial constraint might inspire cost-efficient yet high-quality solutions, such as repurposing existing materials, leveraging inexpensive technologies, or simplifying the design for easy manufacturing. The result could be a product that meets budget requirements and offers customers unique value. Similarly, time constraints can compel us to prioritize tasks, streamline processes, and make effective decisions. Imagine launching a marketing campaign with only one week to plan. This tight timeframe pushes you to focus on the most impactful strategies, eliminate unnecessary details, and collaborate efficiently with your team. The result might be a powerful, condensed campaign that resonates with your audience more effectively than a drawn-out, complex strategy would have. Such constraints stimulate our problem-solving skills and encourage us to look at the situation from various angles, often leading to innovative outcomes. Embracing limitations, therefore, is not about compromising on quality or ambition. Instead, it's about harnessing the power of constraints to spur creativity and innovation. 10) Free Writing: Free writing is a liberating practice that encourages the spontaneous expression of thoughts without interrupting self-editing. It can be a powerful creative catalyst, allowing ideas to flow uninhibited, frequently leading to unexpected connections and insights. In free writing, you let your thoughts pour out onto the page or screen, disregarding the traditional grammar, punctuation, and spelling rules. The goal is to maintain a steady stream of consciousness, moving your pen or fingers for a set period, usually around 10 to 15 minutes, without any pause. This process can serve as a creative warm-up, clearing the mind of clutter and sparking the imagination. It can help unclog mental blocks and alleviate the pressures of producing perfect, polished content. More importantly, free writing can lead you to explore ideas and concepts you might otherwise overlook, providing a fertile ground for innovation. Bear in mind, though, that this technique is not about producing a ready-to-use piece of writing. Instead, it's about exploration and discovery. Once the session is over, you can review the text for any emerging themes, intriguing ideas, or unique perspectives that could serve as seeds for your creative projects. In essence, free writing invites your thoughts to roam freely. It doesn't matter where they wander or how they're articulated. What matters is the act of writing unrestrainedly, letting ideas merge, collide, and evolve in their own unique way. Incorporating this practice into your creative routine can be a transformative step towards fostering an innovative mindset. Conclusion: In pursuit of creativity, these ten strategies form a powerful toolkit to rekindle creativity. These tools invite us to redefine our perceptions, to see not just with our eyes but with our minds, exploring the world in novel ways. They encourage us to delve deep within ourselves, to introspect, to harness the power of constraints, and to let our thoughts flow freely. They remind us of the raw power of our minds and that creativity isn't a finite resource but a renewable reservoir of ideas ready to be tapped into. Incorporating these strategies into your creativity toolbox can help you find new ideas and explore new areas of your imagination. To learn about finding new ideas, listen to this week's show: 10 Ways to Find New Ideas. 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You've probably heard the saying that ‘Creativity is a muscle.' Like your biceps or triceps, your creative mind needs regular exercise to stay in shape. What exercises will let you build your creative muscle? How do you turn these creativity exercises into a habit that is a routine part of your daily life? For many of us, developing creativity habits can seem overwhelming. Starting Small and Simple Where do you even begin? Research has shown that starting small is the key to creating sustainable habits. Renowned psychologist B.J. Fogg, for example, emphasizes the concept of “Tiny Habits,” suggesting that an individual should start with behavior that's easy to do and can be accomplished in less than 30 seconds. This could be as simple as sketching a single line on paper or writing one sentence in a journal. James Clear, author of “Atomic Habits,” recommends an approach of 1% improvement each day. Clear suggests that success is the product of daily habits—not a once-in-a-lifetime transformation. So rather than trying to write a novel in a day, aim to write one paragraph. Over time, these small increments can add up to substantial progress. Another best practice is to anchor your new creative habit to an existing routine—this is known as habit stacking. For example, if you already have a routine of having a cup of coffee every morning, add a few minutes of your chosen creative habit to this routine. And finally, make sure to reward yourself. Positive reinforcement is a powerful motivator in habit formation. So after each successful day of practicing your creative habit, allow yourself a small reward. Over time, this creates a positive association with your new habit, making you more likely to stick with it. The goal isn't to do something creative once and forget about it. The goal is to incorporate creativity into your daily life naturally and sustainably. And with these research-backed strategies, that goal is well within reach. Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither are habits. It's not about making massive changes overnight but taking small steps consistently. Habits to Cultivate Creativity The following are a few habits that can fan the flames of your creativity and help you tap into your innate inventive spirit. This is not an exhaustive list but merely a starting point. As you embark on building creative habits, you may find others that work better for you. Don't feel confined by this list—feel free to add, modify, and explore other practices that spark your creative energies. The most effective habits are the ones that resonate with you and your unique creative process. Here are some habits you might consider: Daily Journaling: Daily Journaling can genuinely be a transformative habit. It serves as a personal canvas where you can paint your thoughts, emotions, and ideas freely and without restraint. This practice declutters the mind and fuels creativity by helping you explore different trains of thought and identify patterns over time. Moreover, daily journaling can be adapted according to your preferences. Some individuals prefer traditional narrative journaling, while others might opt for bullet journals, sketching, or digital journaling. The form it takes isn't as important as consistently putting your thoughts on paper. Also, journaling can act as an incubator for your ideas. For instance, you might jot down a passing thought or a spark of an idea in your journal and then revisit it later to develop it further. This practice especially benefits creative people who need an outlet to capture their flowing ideas. The key to journaling is not to censor yourself. This is your private space for exploration, reflection, and creativity. So let your mind wander, let your pen flow, and you might be surprised at the innovation and creativity that emerge from the pages of your journal. Mindfulness Practices: Mindfulness practices have gained prominence as powerful tools to nurture creativity. They involve focusing on the present moment, accepting it without judgment, and developing a deeper awareness of your surroundings and internal experiences. This increased sensitivity and openness to the present can spark new insights and ideas, enriching your creative output. Meditation, one of the most common mindfulness practices, can be particularly beneficial. Regular meditation sessions can help reduce stress, improve concentration, and promote mental clarity—all of which create a conducive environment for creativity. Consider starting with just a few minutes of meditation each day, gradually increasing the duration as you become more comfortable. Sit in a quiet, comfortable place, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. When your mind wanders—and it will—gently bring it back to your breath. This practice of returning to the moment can strengthen your ability to focus, a critical skill in creative endeavors. Mindful walking is another mindfulness practice you might try. This involves focusing on the sensation of walking, the feeling of your feet touching the ground, and the rhythm of your footsteps. This practice can be an effective way to clear your head and foster a state of relaxed alertness that can lead to creative breakthroughs. Just like any other habit, mindfulness requires consistency and practice. But with time, you can cultivate a more mindful approach to life that opens up new pathways for creative thinking. Curiosity Feeding: Curiosity feeding is about intentionally seeking out new knowledge and experiences. It's a habit that can nurture creativity by broadening your perspective and providing fresh inspiration. Each day, make a conscious effort to learn something new. This can be as simple as reading an interesting article, listening to a podcast, or diving into a new book. You might watch a documentary, learn a new word, or even converse with a stranger. The key is to keep an open mind and embrace the unfamiliar. This can lead you to stumble upon unexpected ideas and connections, fueling your creativity. Engaging with a diverse range of topics also helps to build a rich reservoir of knowledge that can be drawn upon during the creative process. Moreover, curiosity feeding encourages you to ask questions and challenge assumptions—an essential aspect of creative thinking. By nurturing your curiosity, you foster a mindset of continuous learning and exploration conducive to creativity. The aim is not just to amass knowledge but to stimulate thought and inspire innovation. So be curious, be open, and immerse yourself in the joy of discovering something new every day. Idea Generation: Idea Generation, often known as brainstorming, is about unleashing your mind to explore different possibilities and avenues. It's about breaking free from the constraints of logical thinking and embracing wild and crazy ideas. This practice stimulates your creative muscles and opens up a treasure trove of potential innovations. Here are a few strategies to make the most of your idea-generation sessions. Firstly, create a conducive environment. Choose a quiet, comfortable space where you can think without distractions. Some people find that certain settings, like a park or a café, stimulate their creativity more than others. Experiment and find what works best for you. Secondly, set a timer. Giving yourself a specific timeframe, like 15 minutes, can create a sense of urgency that pushes your brain to think more creatively. Thirdly, remember that there are no bad ideas during brainstorming. The goal is to generate as many ideas as possible, not to judge them. Write down everything that comes to your mind, no matter how absurd or impractical. This encourages free thinking and can often lead you down unexpected paths to brainstorm innovative ideas. Lastly, do it often. The more frequently you brainstorm, the more readily your brain can generate new ideas. The purpose of idea generation is not only to come up with solutions to specific problems but also to nurture a mindset of creativity and innovation. Creative Exercises: Creative exercises are vital activities that stimulate your brain, encouraging out-of-the-box thinking and idea generation. They take various forms and can be tailored to individual preferences and interests. One popular creative exercise is solving puzzles. Whether it's a jigsaw, crossword, or Rubik's cube, puzzles force you to think strategically and look for patterns. They challenge your brain to work in ways it normally wouldn't, fostering creativity. Artistic endeavors such as painting, drawing, or sculpting are also great creative exercises. They allow you to express yourself freely and create something unique from your imagination. Even if you don't consider yourself an artist, creating art can stimulate creative thinking. Cooking a new recipe is another form of creative exercise. It's about mixing ingredients in different ways to create unique flavors. Experimenting with cooking methods can also lead to discoveries in the kitchen, like how experimenting with ideas can lead to innovation. Writing exercises, like poetry or storytelling, can also stimulate creativity. They encourage you to play with words, conjuring compelling narratives from your imagination. The goal of these exercises isn't necessarily to create a masterpiece but to spark creativity and have fun in the process. Next Steps To Creating Habits The next step is commitment. Commit to doing one of these exercises every day for 30 days. Why 30 days? Because science tells us that's about how long repeated actions become a habit. Some things to keep in mind: Set Clear Goals: Begin by setting a clear and achievable goal. It should be something that you can realistically accomplish within the 30-day time frame. For example, if you want to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine, your goal could be to meditate for 10 minutes each day. Start Small: It's crucial to start with small, manageable tasks. If your goal is to read a book a week, you might start by reading a few pages each day and gradually increase your reading time. Starting small makes the habit easier to adopt and less overwhelming. Consistency is Key: Consistency is the cornerstone of habit formation. Stick to your routine every day for 30 days. If you aim to engage in creative exercises daily, ensure you set aside time each day for this activity, whether in the morning, during lunch breaks, or in the evening. Be Patient and Persistent: It takes time to form a habit. You might encounter obstacles or have off days, but it's important not to get disheartened. Persistence is key, and consistently repeating the activity leads to habit formation. Remember, the goal isn't perfection. It's consistency. There will be days when it feels harder to engage your creativity. That's okay. What matters is showing up, day in and day out. Stay Positive: Finally, staying positive and maintaining a growth mindset is essential. Each day is an opportunity to learn and grow. Celebrate your successes, even the small ones, and be kind to yourself when you feel discouraged or frustrated. Tell Someone: Being held accountable by having someone checking in on you can be motivating. Find an accountability partner who will support and encourage your endeavors. Creating a creative habit isn't easy, but it is achievable with these strategies. With consistency and dedication, it won't be long before you experience the reward of a more creative life. Benefits of Cultivating a Creativity Habit People who cultivate a creative habit experience numerous benefits. It opens up new possibilities and expands your horizons, and creativity can also improve physical and mental well-being. Here are some of the most prominent advantages associated with nurturing a creative mindset: Improved Problem Solving: Creativity can help you develop more efficient solutions to problems. This is because it encourages divergent thinking, which involves considering multiple perspectives and approaches to problem-solving. Heightened Focus and Concentration: Creative activities are often engaging and stimulating, positively affecting your focus and concentration levels. Working on creative problems or projects can help you stay focused for extended periods. Higher Levels of Self-Esteem & Confidence: Taking risks and engaging in creative activities can boost your self-esteem, giving you a sense of accomplishment and pride. This increased confidence can have far-reaching implications, improving personal and professional relationships. Increased Happiness & Satisfaction: Research has shown that engaging in creative activities can improve our happiness levels and overall life satisfaction. This is because creativity helps us to express ourselves and get more in touch with our inner selves. Wrapping Up: The Power of Cultivating Creativity We can all significantly enhance our creativity through dedication and commitment. We can awaken our inherent creative forces by making creativity exercises a part of our daily routine. It's not about creating masterpieces daily but about sparking creative energy within us. Whether it's solving puzzles, painting, or even experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, these activities stimulate our brains in unique ways, fostering creativity. The journey of cultivating a creative habit doesn't have to be solitary. Sharing this journey with an accountability partner can provide mutual encouragement and motivation. Regardless of the obstacles, be patient and persistent because every step in this journey brings us closer to reaping the numerous benefits of a creative mindset, from improved problem-solving skills and heightened focus to increased self-esteem and happiness. The journey to enhanced creativity might seem long and challenging but worthwhile. So, dare to commit to this transformative journey, for the destination promises an enriched life overflowing with creativity. It's time you unleashed your inner Da Vinci! To learn about cultivating a creativity habit, listen to this week's show: How to Cultivate a Creativity Habit. 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Hello, Innovators! Welcome back to another episode of the Killer Innovations podcast. I am so happy to be back in the studio with you today, and I'm excited to give you an update on the show and myself. A few months ago, in February, I had to undergo open heart surgery at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. The surgery was totally unexpected when we went to Florida for Christmas. I have a rare genetic cardiac condition, so I'm under Mayo's care. During my annual check-up, the test showed some issues, which turned a three-week visit into a four and half month stay. Unfortunately, the nine days I spent in the intensive care unit being intubated caused damage to my vocal cords, preventing me from recording new episodes — that is, until today. The damage to the vocal cords is why my voice may sound different. But the show must go on, and that's where the team that helps me with the show stepped in. While I've been out, Andrew, Kirk, and Ethan have been serving up the most popular shows from our rich 19-year archive. Since I couldn't record, I turned my attention to my writing, posting multiple times weekly to my blog at philmckinney.com. If you haven't checked it out lately, I encourage you to hop over. You will notice that all of my writing is now merged onto the Ghost platform that hosts the blog, making it easier for everyone to find the archive of my articles going back to 1996. To get back in front of the microphone, I've been meeting with vocal cord experts, including those specializing in performers and audio professionals. We looked at various options to determine what it would take to get my voice back to its pre-surgery level. The most important was letting the vocal cords rest. In addition, the specialists changed my diet to reduce the acid reflux, which has been scaring the vocal cords. Who knew? Now for some exciting news. I've been cleared to experiment with recording new shows to see how my vocal cords hold up. Andrew, our associate producer, has been investigating and testing AI tools that can be trained on my past shows, taking the scripts I write and recording the audio for me. This will allow us to deliver original content without over-stressing my vocal cords. In fact, the introduction you heard today was an actual recording of me from my mobile studio built into my bus parked in Port Angeles, Washington. This main segment you are listening to was recorded using one of the AI tools. Like my challenge to you, the podcast team needs to innovate, even in how we produce the show. What do you think? As for my health, I'm doing great. I've lost 35 pounds—though I wouldn't recommend bypass surgery as a weight loss program. My focus now is on my cardiac rehab and rebuilding my strength and stamina. This summer, I'm working from my bus parked in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, walking on the beach to get my steps in, and loving my Starlink broadband! Regarding the show, our team is working hard to rebuild the queue so we can release new original content on a more regular schedule. If we miss a few weeks, I apologize in advance. So, what is changing — and staying the same with the show? When the show was launched in 2005, the goal was to explore creativity, design, and innovation. Over the years, this podcast has grown to include a mix of interviews, solo episodes, and occasional co-hosts. This focus and format will not change, but the technology behind producing this show will continue to evolve. So, who are our listeners? Well, Killer Innovations attracts a broad spectrum of people. From tech aficionados to aspiring entrepreneurs, from top brass at leading tech and strategy firms to those just embarking on their career journey. My mission is to satisfy your curiosity about what it takes to be successful as an innovator, inventor, and creator and to equip you with the tools and insights needed to navigate the rapidly changing landscape. What can you expect from future episodes? Not much difference from what we've been doing in the past. We will continue to delve into innovations that are reshaping our lives—but don't stop there. We dig deeper to uncover the stories behind these breakthroughs. How did these innovators turn their initial ideas into tangible realities? What obstacles did they face and overcome? And crucially, how can you apply these insights to your own path? You may hear more of my experience from a 40-year career in inventing and launching innovations. What topics do you want to hear more about? What topics have you heard enough of? Let us know. Now, how can you help? We need supporters to help us cover our costs to produce the show. For 19 years, I've covered the costs out of my pocket with help from Eric and his team at Zoom, who have been a lead sponsor of the podcast for the last eight years. But our expenses have increased with the team stepping up while I have been out. If you are willing to support the show and the team, please consider becoming a financial supporter. Visit the blog at philmckinney.com and click on ‘Membership' at the top. Rest assured, none of the funding will go to me. It will go to the team and associated out-of-pocket costs. We are looking for $10,000 per month. Imagine this: you're sipping your morning coffee, earbuds in, listening to our show. You're learning new things, being entertained, and it feels like you're part of a community. That's the power of our podcast. But did you know it takes more than just a microphone and an interesting topic to keep that podcast coming to your ears week after week? It involves hours of research, editing, and production. Not to mention the cost of hosting and distributing each episode. What if you could help ensure this podcast's continuation while gaining exclusive perks? You can do just that for just $50 per year — about $1 per episode. Your financial support can make a significant difference in maintaining the quality and consistency of our content. Think of it as buying us a cup of coffee once a week as a thank-you for the content we provide. And in return, we'll continue to deliver the engaging and insightful episodes you look forward to every week. We need 2,400 financial sponsors to cover our show expenses. Are you ready to be one of them? Will you help us keep the conversation going? Remember, supporting us isn't just about helping cover costs. It's about investing in something you value and want to see thrive. It's about being part of a community that values knowledge, engagement, and entertainment. So, are you ready to step up and become a financial supporter of our podcast? Visit philmckinney.com and click ‘Membership.' Because every good story deserves to be told… and heard. That's it for today's episode. Thanks for your continued support. Remember, stay curious, stay innovative, and keep pushing the boundaries. To learn how you can help the show, listen to this week's show: Navigating Uncharted Territory with Innovation. RELATED:   Subscribe To The Newsletter and Killer Innovations Podcast

Continuing our Best of Killer Innovation series, we look at David Su’s innovative solution to the problem of disposable and short-lived battery life and his tips for success that helped him start Atmosic. Being connected has become an essential part of our daily lives. Wireless has made huge strides over the past two decades.  IoT is connecting our world in ways we would have never imagined.  With the growing demand for constant connectivity, one area that needs fine-tuning is battery life.  All these devices we use throughout the day require battery power. Today’s guest saw this as an opportunity.  David Su is CEO of Atmosic.  His company is innovating battery life.  Creating technologies to reduce battery usage, Atmosic develops solutions that keep things powered up. Stanford to Startup Much of David’s career has been in the wireless space.  With a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Stanford, David joined Atheros Communication in 1999 as its fifth employee.  David continued with Atheros as it grew and went public. He stayed on when Qualcomm acquired Atheros. After some years, David felt his time at Qualcomm had run its course.  He ventured into new areas.  With four former work colleagues, he started a new company. Atmosic’s Vision In the wireless world, battery power can be a boon and a bane.  Reliance on wireless means dependence on batteries for power. When batteries lose charge, things can come to a standstill.  Limited battery life also means a lot of batteries get thrown out – to the tune of three billion per year.  Two and a half years ago, David and fellow co-founders started Atmosic with this in mind.  David, Masoud Zargari, David Nakahira, Srinivas Pattamatta, and Manolis Terrovitis brainstormed.  They sought advice from experts in the field. Their vision began to coalesce – to keep connected devices powered with little to no battery usage. With the vision in place, Dave and his team went to work innovating battery life.  They started with battery-powered Bluetooth devices. Solving Core Battery Problems The advantages Autmosic’s technologies will offer: Lowest power usage without compromising quality. Turns device off when not in use with system level check that transmits only when needed. RF energy harvesting, enabling the battery to last forever. Long-term vision: “Battery-free utopia” – ecosystem in enterprise applications. Lessons Learned What has David learned along the journey toward innovating battery life?  David has some tips for people whether they’re starting a company or pursuing innovation. Interoperate – work with what is already known and improve it. Surround yourself with people who are smarter than you and be willing to listen. Make sure what you are doing is what you truly believe in and arepassionate  Ground what you are doing in reality. By innovating battery life, Atmosic is focusing on a problem that affects us all.  Powering down to power up will keep us connected sustainably. To track what Atmosic is doing, visit www.atmosic.com/   For the latest updates, check them out on Twitter and LinkedIn. To learn more about powering up, listen to this week's show: The Best of Killer Innovations: A New Way to Power Up. RELATED:   Subscribe To The Newsletter and Killer Innovations Podcast  

Continuing our Best of Killer Innovation series, we examine how one creator, Rama Sreenivasan of Blitzz, looked outside the box and created solutions to the hindrances he faced on his innovative journey. When you're in the middle of an important project and equipment fails, you want it fixed fast.  In this week's show, I talk with Blitzz Co-founder Rama Sreenivasan. His company is solving the inefficiencies of tech support.  Blitzz's customer support innovation integrates AI, AR, and live video to solve problems faster. Winding Journeys Connected Rama's path has taken some unexpected twists, from a chemical engineer working on medical devices to starting a SaaS company.  But at the heart of it, he is a problem solver.  The source of his inspiration: his dad, who he likes to call “MacGyver.” Rama founded Blitzz together with co-founder Keyur Patel two years ago.  They most recently participated in CableLabs Filterator.  This accelerator program helps startups develop a product-market fit for the cable industry. A System That Assesses Without the Hassle When instruments stop working, it's time to bring in a helpful live assistant. Blitz's customer support innovation allows a better perspective of and feel for the problem. Through live video chat, companies can avoid spending on onsite technician visits. Customer support is not only heightened but it is also trained to see around the inconspicuous.  Innovation in repair operations contributes to cuts in labor fees and time processing.  What prompted Rama to create Blitzz's innovative approach?  During his PH. D and Post-Doctoral work, frustration with equipment breakdown mid-experiment was the impetus.  The long wait to get repairs done seemed a waste. Rama felt there had to be a better way. AR Perception In any given company, customer support could always be better. That's why the addition of AR technology adds to the customer experience. Questions can be answered faster and more efficiently. One no longer has to worry about the hassle of scheduling an in-person visit. AR perception captures it all. This innovation allows one on one human interaction on a more convenient level. AI Intelligence Equipment can malfunction and run the risk of being unreliable. AI customer support can redirect the customer to questions and answers that may be a better fit. This AI customer support innovation becomes its teacher. The AI brings the ability to learn from the information it processes. Lessons Learned Rama highly recommends entrepreneurs go through an accelerator.  He learned critical elements of the startup process through that experience.  He also credits passion for driving the startup process. Connecting with mentors can help fan the flames of that passion. If you'd like to track the latest with Blitzz, visit the website: https://blitzz.co/ or check out Blitzz on LinkedIn and Twitter. We love your feedback. Tell us what you'd like to hear on Killer Innovations. Get in touch and let me know. To learn more about innovations in customer support, listen to this week's show: The Best of Killer Innovations: Innovations in Customer Support. RELATED:   Subscribe To The Newsletter and Killer Innovations Podcast

You can learn, practice, and perfect the skill of innovation. To keep the innovation funnel flowing, generating quality ideas is essential. On this week’s Best of Killer Innovation Series, we ask, how do you boost innovation in a team lacking confidence? One practical approach is organizing a disruptive ideation workshop. Let's explore how to create a successful one. Condensed Boot Camp I run an intensive four-day Innovation Boot Camp course a few times yearly. Students often request a condensed one-day version for their teams. In response, I developed the Disruptive Ideation Workshop, which focused on a disruptive approach to generate more and better ideas using the FIRE method. The workshop aims to teach the skill, apply it, and create a pipeline of ideas for the organization. Recently, we tested the workshop with 25 senior leaders with no innovation background. The results surpassed expectations, leading us to name it the “Disruptive Ideation Workshop.” Overview of the Disruptive Ideation Workshop Disruptive ideation means causing innovation through unconventional approaches. The workshop has two main objectives: Teach a disruptive approach to ideation, significantly increasing the quantity and quality of generated ideas. Apply the learned skills to the organization's real-world problem, resulting in a ranked set of disruptive ideas. The course comprises two sections: Foundation and Skills and Application/Practice. Foundation Section: Debunk myths and mysteries surrounding innovation. Develop essential innovation skills, such as overcoming self-doubt, fostering imagination, and seeing with fresh eyes. Address innovation anti-bodies, such as ego, risk aversion, and resistance to change. Introduce the FIRE framework: Focus: Define the problem statement clearly for relevant idea generation. Ideation: Use powerful questions to generate a multitude of high-quality ideas. Ranking: Group and identify top ideas from the pool. Execution: Refine and expand on selected ideas. We emphasize the Ideation component. Skills and Application/Practice Section: Students apply the elements of the FIRE framework to an accurate problem statement. Skills taught include: FOCUS: Clearly defining the problem as a well-defined statement is crucial. IDEATION: Use questions to generate more and better ideas, building upon individual contributions. RANKING: Group and select top ideas from the pool. EXECUTION: Expand on chosen ideas with depth and thought. We emphasize “Adapt and Adopt,” allowing students to apply the learned skills effectively within their organizations. Lessons from the Disruptive Ideation Workshop Insights from conducting the workshop include: The one-day format allows focused time away from daily responsibilities. Crafting a solid problem statement is critical, so allocate sufficient time. Limit workshop size to a manageable number of students, ideally no more than 20. Establish the following steps to sustain momentum post-workshop. Foster a community among participants to maintain a vibrant learning atmosphere. To learn more about disruptive innovation workshops, listen to this week's show: The Best of Killer Innovations: Creating a Disruptive Ideation Workshop. RELATED:   Subscribe To The Newsletter and Killer Innovations Podcast

On this week’s Best of Killer Innovation Series, we analyze qualities that promote strong innovation leadership and will help any organization become a trailblazer in the game. What are the unique skill sets needed for innovation leadership?  We all have a list of what good leadership skills are but what are the unique ones you need to be a true innovation leader?  Today on Killer Innovations, I will discuss what I have found to be the skills needed for successful innovation leadership. Innovation Leadership Skills These leadership skills apply to all organizations, whether you are a small organization or a large organization. Integrity You need to trust the people you are working with. You need to know they are looking out for what is in the best interests of the team and organization. Vision and Strategy. Team members are looking to the leaders to communicate what the vision and strategy are. You need to look long-range beyond where the team is and roll that back in so they can see what your vision is. You need to be able to tell the story, make the pitch, and share your dream with others. Communication is critical to successful innovation leadership, If you are going to be a leader, you need to be able to interact and build relationships and truly have an interest in other people’s lives. Know what is going on in your team members’ lives so you can help them eliminate distractions and get their heads in the game. You have got to persuade people to leave what they are doing now and join your team. You must be able to convince them that what are doing is something worth their time. Adaptability and Flexibility. As a leader you cannot be rigid, you must be adaptable and flexible with your team and organization. Can you operate as a leader of a team? You need diversity in your team to be successful. Coach and develop. Find young and upcoming people and coach and develop them. Decision-Making. You must be comfortable making the final decision. Realize that sometimes the decision you make is going to fail. Planning and organizing. If you are not good at planning and organizing, then hire people to do it for your team. Basic Skill You Need These are the basic skills you need to be a successful innovation leader.  So, what skills do you need to do differently to truly be an innovation leader? Innovation leadership involves taking risks. You must be comfortable that some of the decisions you make are going to fail. Some of your decisions are going to be flipped. You need to keep looking for new opportunities and threats. Look for threats to your organization, industry, or geography. Innovation is about change. Stability is the death of innovation. Foster a culture where change is expected. Do not rest on the traditional management techniques. Every situation is different. You need to invent the way you manage and do leadership. Be an optimist. Innovation is about being an optimist. You need to convince and convey an optimistic view of the future. Innovators cut through the crap. Innovation leaders need to cut through the crap and get to the core. You need to step in and stop the corporate game-playing. Let’s connect; I am on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.  If we do connect, drop me a note and let me know.  The email address is feedback@philmckinney.com or you can go to Philmckinney.com and drop me a note there. Thinking Beyond the Obvious The challenges on the creativity innovation side do not change based on scale.  It is the same whether you have a five-person team or a fifty-person team.  The challenge is operating and innovating at the same level.  A lot of companies get in a rut because they are doing what they have always done.  So, how do you push yourself and people to go beyond the obvious and do the next thing? Break the rules. Corporate antibodies will come after new ideas; you need to recognize that these antibodies exist. Sometimes you are the corporate antibody. You must think differently. You must unlearn what you have been taught when it comes to conforming. Make sure that you challenge yourself to go beyond the obvious answer to questions. It is all about asking. How do you ask questions that will make you think about something you have not considered before? How do you ask those killer questions? Better questions get you better answers. To learn more about innovation leadership, listen to this week's show: The Best of Killer Innovations: The Art of Innovation Leadership. RELATED:   Subscribe To The Newsletter and Killer Innovations Podcast