If you want to be more innovative
Should you be a jack of all trades or a master of ONE?
Here’s a better question: Why can’t we be both?
In his book “The Workplace Curiosity Manifesto”, author Stefaan Van Hooydonk’s research discovered an interesting observation. Those who are deeply curious about one field, to which he coined the term having a “narrow curiosity”, will continue to find innovative ideas though they’ll be more incremental.
Meanwhile, people with “broad curiosity”, meaning those who like to learn a little about everything, tends to create more disruptive innovations.
When you can combine ideas from different industries, you can see your problem from a more diverse perspective. It allows you to ask questions no one has asked. It allows you to connect dots that are non-existent within your field.
I gave a few real life examples in this magic video.
The key to becoming more innovative and creative?
Be both a master of ONE and jack of all trades. Three simple tips:
1- Practice “what if”: Whenever you hear a new idea from someone from a different industry, instead of dismissing them thinking they know nothing about your world, ask first “just what if their idea might help?”. What if someone from the aerospace industry has an insight that will allow you to create a more streamlined swimsuit? Because yes, that happened!
2- Be curious about similar industries: As a speaker, I also spend time studying film making, attention psychology, Cirque Du Solei etc… Those knowledge helped me become better at storytelling. What are another industry that is similar to yours and how do they solve their problems?
3- Never stay stagnant: As a master of ONE, you are committed to improving your craft. Regularly review your progress and hunt for hidden problems before they blow up.
