Our theme has been creativity and engagement. Postings have dealt with gathering ideas and preparing for failure. Here’s something else for the mix.

Consider this activity for yourself, if you want to find better/different ways to approach an action that gives you difficulty.

And consider this activity for your team, to apply to specific assignments when they encounter difficulty.

• Choose a job action/project which currently causes you difficulty.

• List the elements that make up the project: tools, time elements, procedural steps, input from others….

• Select one key element in that situation that you will change. This does not have to be a realistic change. For example, you might change the sequence of steps in the procedure, you might change the tools used, the time in which you do it, or even your reasons for doing it.

• Imagine/envision performing the changed action.

• Consider how changes—no matter how “unreal” they may be—can alter your approach to the difficulty.

• What ideas about changes that might be applicable and streamline the action come to mind?

• Remember your Idea Notebook.

This is another Creative Charger from Batteries Included: How to Charge and Recharge Your Creative Cells.