“Not only are bloggers suckers for the remarkable, so are the people who read blogs .” - Seth Godin

Introduction:

The idea that innovators are born with a natural talent for creativity and problem-solving is a common misconception. In truth, innovation is a skill that can be nurtured and developed over time. While some individuals may possess certain attributes that lend themselves to innovative thinking, anyone can cultivate the habits and mindset necessary to become an innovator. In this blog post, we will explore three habits that can help grow the skills of being an innovator.

 1. Embrace Curiosity:

Curiosity is the fuel that drives innovation. It is the desire to explore, question, and challenge the status quo. Developing a habit of embracing curiosity involves actively seeking knowledge, asking thought-provoking questions, and being open to different perspectives. This habit can be cultivated by:

a) Reading widely: Innovators expose themselves to a diverse range of ideas and perspectives. Reading books, articles, and blogs on various topics can expand one's knowledge base and inspire new ways of thinking.

b) Asking "why" and "what if": Innovators constantly challenge assumptions and look for opportunities to improve existing processes or create something entirely new. By asking probing questions, they uncover hidden insights and discover new possibilities.

c) Embracing failure: Curiosity requires a willingness to experiment and make mistakes. Innovators understand that failure is an essential part of the learning process and use it as an opportunity to iterate and improve their ideas.

2. Foster a Growth Mindset:

A growth mindset is a belief that intelligence and abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work. In contrast, a fixed mindset assumes that abilities are fixed traits, leaving no room for improvement. Cultivating a growth mindset is crucial for building the skills of innovation. Here's how you can foster a growth mindset:

a) Embrace challenges: Innovators see challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles to avoid. They actively seek out new and difficult problems to solve, pushing themselves outside of their comfort zones.

b) Emphasize effort over outcome: Instead of focusing solely on the end result, innovators value the process and effort invested in their work. Recognizing that innovation takes time and perseverance helps them stay motivated and resilient in the face of setbacks.

c) Continual learning: Innovators are lifelong learners who view education as an ongoing journey. They actively seek new knowledge and skills that can enhance their ability to innovate. This can be accomplished through attending workshops, taking courses, or engaging in online learning platforms.

3. Cultivate a Collaborative Environment:

Innovation thrives in an environment that encourages collaboration and diverse perspectives. By fostering a collaborative mindset, individuals can tap into the collective intelligence of a team and generate groundbreaking ideas. Here are some ways to cultivate a collaborative environment:

a) Encourage diverse voices: Innovators understand the importance of diversity in driving creativity and innovation. They actively seek diverse perspectives and create an inclusive environment where every team member feels heard and valued.

b) Foster a culture of trust: Trust is essential for effective collaboration. Innovators build trust by fostering open communication, respecting different opinions, and providing constructive feedback. They create a safe space where team members feel comfortable sharing their ideas and taking risks.

c) Promote cross-functional collaboration: Innovators recognize the power of cross-pollination of ideas across different disciplines. Encouraging collaboration between individuals with varying skill sets and backgrounds can lead to innovative breakthroughs.

Conclusion:
While some people may naturally gravitate towards innovative thinking, the skills of an innovator can be nurtured and developed through specific habits. By embracing curiosity, fostering a growth mindset, and cultivating a collaborative environment, individuals can enhance their ability to think creatively, solve complex problems, and drive innovation. Remember, innovators are not born but made. So, start cultivating these habits today and unlock your full potential as an innovator.

By CK Charles