Can you teach lateral thinking?

Step-by-step guided problem-solving is something we are familiar with. Basically, Linear thinking is logical, using existing solutions & experience. However, design problems aren't about applying Steps 1 to 10; it's quite critical for linear thinking. There may be many potential solutions to one problem & one usually gets locked in a thinking box if they don't try different thinking approaches.?

That's what lateral thinking is all about—thinking outside the box, as we famously say. Lateral thinking is invaluable for a designer; it's about finding new perspectives and ways to address challenges. Kapil Gupta highlights more about this in his podcast 'Prescriptions Are For The Unserious.' Please give it a good listen.?

In the design world, lateral thinking is a form of ideation where designers approach problems using disruptive or not immediately obvious reasoning. It's about seeing problems from radically new angles and gaining insights to help find innovative solutions. Expanding one's creativity and adopting new habits can train the brain to think laterally. For example, when using frameworks in designs, it's easier to understand the 'How' of implementing them but knowing the 'Which', if relevant, needs thinking. And you can't achieve that by following a step-by-step guide.?

Here’s one more example for thoughts - ?While creating a user persona, people jot down general pain points rather than focusing on the points that's directly or indirectly related to the product in question.?

Having said that, you can always work on learning the techniques. Start by implementing a couple of these points:

1. Be curious - Take time to wonder, to research. Make an effort to jot down notes & thoughts throughout the process.?
2. Ask "what if" questions - It helps begin the thinking patterns & you'll be surprised where it lands you in the discussion and the new information you grasp through the course.
3. Try hands at puzzles - They help you improve your problem-solving skills & your responsiveness in general. Brain teasers are great.
4. Demonstrate initiatives - Don't wait for something to be asked or a situation to pop up. Take the initiative & put out suggestions for a product even if the solution would help another team.?