A good way to innovate or come up with new ideas: always think to yourself, “What if the opposite were true?”

What are some common assumptions we believe in life? Write them down on a piece of paper, and think opposite. Write down a statement you think is true, then write the exact opposite, contradictory idea.

I don’t believe any idea is truly “right” or “wrong.” Every “right” can be “wrong” in a certain way, and every “wrong” can be a “right.”

You just need to learn how to see both sides of the coin at the same time. And that is where you will come up with new innovative ideas, that break out of conventional thought.

How to innovate

I also find that one of the best ways to be more innovative is to block out the world, to sit down, and to think. You already have all the information you need in your head. Why do you keep doing research and looking for ideas outside of yourself?

Think about your life experiences, your personal philosophies, and how you see the world. Share those ideas and experiences with others. Nobody can call your ideas “right” or “wrong” — they are just your opinion. And your opinion and ideas can help others.

Assignment: Think opposite

For an assignment on innovative thinking, do the following: think opposite for an entire week.

For example, if you get angry at someone for fcking up something— think opposite. Rather than blaming them, blame yourself. Think to yourself: “He didn’t fck up, I f*cked up.”

If you think that having more money will bring you more happiness, think the opposite: having more money might make you more miserable. Rappers don’t lie when they say, “More money, more problems.”

If you think that buying a new camera will make you more creative— think opposite. How can buying a new camera or lens make you less creative? Think about the idea of “creative constraints” — that having fewer options forces us to be more creative.

If you think that moving to a fancier or more hip neighborhood will make you happier — think opposite. How will doing so make you more miserable? Think about the additional costs, stress, and lifestyle changes you will have to pursue.

Think opposite.

Always,
Eric

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