My Chinese name is ..
When I grew up in Hong Kong, it was a British Colonial State. We were taught “The Queen’s English”. One of the perks is we get to choose an English name at school. It is almost like giving yourself an alter ego, a new identity.
**NOPE! I did not choose the name “Nash” at that time. That came later when I immigrated to the US. Why did I choose that name? You will have to ask me in person.**
It wasn’t until I moved to the US that I discovered how difficult it is for English speakers to pronounce my Chinese name. I didn’t think much of it for 28 years, until recently it dawned on me that my Chinese name can actually lead to a very fun and direct way to teach an innovation concept.
**Watch the video above. This now becomes a prominent addition to my keynote “Curiosity: The Magic Behind Innovative Thinking”**
Here’s what happened: I asked the audience if anyone feel confident they could say my Chinese name on stage, almost no one ever raised their hands. After they had a chance to try saying my name at their table among their friends, I asked the same question again. 100% of the time, way more people raised their hands.
The main reason: They were able to try saying my name not on the big stage first, but they got to try it out a few times at their table, at a smaller scale and safer place first.
My friends, that is the key to being more innovative. Society glorifies bold action. But in practice, innovation doesn’t always start with the boldest action. Instead, small and consistent tests that stress your ideas will lead to better innovations in the long run.
