Why you have not invented superglue? Innovation vs. Stagnation: Unlocking the Power of Mindset

In today's rapidly evolving world, the ability to innovate is more than just a desirable trait—it's a necessity. The dichotomy between an innovative and stagnant mindset can determine not only the success of individuals but also that of organizations and societies at large.

The Stagnant Mindset Is Anchored in the Past

A stagnant mindset can be visualized as a ship anchored firmly, unable to sail forward despite the vast ocean that lies ahead. Individuals with this mindset often feel trapped in their current circumstances, unable to envision a brighter future or adapt to changing tides. They may find themselves constantly comparing their journey to others, feeling overwhelmed by the plethora of opportunities, or simply succumbing to demotivation. Such a mindset can be a result of various factors, including past failures, fear of the unknown, or even societal pressures that emphasize conformity over creativity.

The Innovative Mindset is Sailing Towards the Future

On the other end of the spectrum lies the innovative mindset. This mindset is characterized by dynamism, adaptability, and a forward-looking perspective. A study from the Harvard Business Review sheds light on the traits that define innovative individuals:

- Opportunistic Mindset: These individuals are always on the lookout for new opportunities. They have an insatiable curiosity that drives them to explore uncharted territories.

- Education & Training: Their depth of knowledge in their respective fields allows them to discern between relevant and irrelevant information, helping them make informed decisions.

- Proactivity & Persistence: They are not deterred by challenges. Instead, they view them as stepping stones towards their goals.

- Prudence: One of the most intriguing findings is that successful innovators are often more cautious and risk-averse than one might assume. While they are open to taking calculated risks, they also understand the importance of strategic planning and foresight. Inthe same study Harvard Business Review article titled "The Five Characteristics of Successful Innovators" mentions that contrary to popular belief, successful innovators are more organized, cautious, and risk-averse than the general population. While higher risk-taking is linked to business formation, it isn't necessarily linked to business success. This suggests that while innovative individuals might take risks to start something new, they are also prudent in their approach to ensure the longevity and success of their ventures.

- Social Capital: Their ability to forge strong alliances and utilize their networks effectively sets them apart. They understand that innovation is often a collaborative effort.

The Barriers to Innovation and How Overcoming Them

While understanding the traits of an innovative mindset is crucial, it's equally important to recognize the barriers that can hinder innovation. Biases, dogmatic beliefs, and resistance to change can act as significant roadblocks.

To foster innovation and overcome these barriers, individuals can:

1. Embrace Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest trends, technologies, and methodologies in your field. Attend workshops, webinars, and conferences. By doing so, you ensure that your knowledge remains relevant and up-to-date, allowing you to bring fresh ideas and solutions to the table.

- Avoid: Becoming complacent with current knowledge. The world is evolving, and so should your understanding.

2. Practice Divergent Thinking: Challenge yourself to think of multiple solutions to a single problem. Brainstorming sessions or mind-mapping techniques can stimulate the brain, fostering a culture of creativity and out-of-the-box thinking.

- Avoid: Settling for the first solution that comes to mind. Explore multiple avenues before deciding on a course of action.

3. Engage in Cross-disciplinary Interactions: Interacting with professionals from diverse fields can provide fresh perspectives and insights. This cross-pollination of ideas can lead to innovative solutions that might not have been apparent within a single discipline.

- Avoid: Working in silos. Innovation thrives on collaboration and diverse viewpoints.

4. Cultivate Curiosity: Ask questions, seek answers, and always be willing to learn. Curiosity drives exploration and can lead to discoveries that might have otherwise been overlooked.

- Avoid: Accepting information at face value. Dive deeper, research, and understand the "why" behind concepts.

5. Set Aside Time for Reflection: Allocate specific times in your day or week for introspection. Reflect on your experiences, learn from failures, and strategize for the future. This self-awareness can guide future actions and decisions, ensuring they align with your goals.

- Avoid: Constantly being in "action" mode without taking the time to assess and recalibrate.

6. Break Routine: Occasionally, change your daily routine. New experiences can stimulate the brain, foster creativity, and prevent feelings of monotony or stagnation.

- Avoid: Getting too comfortable in a routine. While routines can provide structure, they can also limit exposure to new experiences.

The Antithesis of Innovation Is Stagnation

While it's essential to understand and practice the methods that foster innovation, it's equally crucial to recognize what not to do. Stagnation often stems from a fear of change, an over-reliance on past successes, and a reluctance to challenge established norms. To truly innovate, one must be willing to step out of their comfort zone, embrace uncertainty, and be open to continuous learning and growth.

Real-world Innovation:

The Superglue Evolution

A prime example of innovative thinking in action can be seen in the evolution of Superglue. A common issue faced by many was the drying up of the traditional 5ml tubes after a single use. Recognizing this problem, Superglue introduced micro tubes of 1ml in packs of five—a simple yet effective solution that addressed a widespread problem.

The Light

Have you ever thought about the light? When electricity was created, someone must have asked the question, what do we do with this now?

Before the invention of the lightbulb, people relied on products like lanterns and oil lamps to illuminate their homes. While these sources provided light, they also came with significant risks, such as making houses more susceptible to fires. At the time, these accidents were often accepted as a necessary risk. The lightbulb, however, transformed this scenario. It not only provided a safer and more efficient means of lighting but also paved the way for numerous technological advancements in the field of electricity and electronics. The lightbulb is a classic example of how innovation can address both explicit and latent pain points. Explicitly, it provided a safer lighting solution, and latently, it opened up possibilities for further advancements in various fields.

Question: Was the electricity invented to power the bulbs or the bulbs to use the electricity, or they were part of a great project?

Innovation is not confined to groundbreaking inventions or revolutionary ideas. It's a mindset—a cultivated way of approaching challenges and envisioning solutions. As the world continues to change at an unprecedented pace, the ability to innovate will determine who sails smoothly into the future and who remains anchored in the past.

By fostering an innovative mindset and breaking free from stagnation, we can unlock limitless potential, paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future.

If you want to learn more I can suggest the following readings:

1. Zero to IPO: Over $1 Trillion of Actionable Advice from the World's Most Successful Entrepreneurs (April 2022 Release)

- This book offers practical and creative advice from the world's most successful entrepreneurs and investors. It's a valuable resource for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries aiming to leave a significant mark in their respective fields.

2. Corporate Explorer: How Corporations Beat Startups at the Innovation Game

- Gone are the days when innovation was solely the domain of startups. This book provides practical guidance on how established corporations and organizations can innovate, outpacing their startup competitors. It's a deep dive into the strategies and tactics that allow big businesses to stay agile and innovative.

3. Rethink Innovation: How the World's Most Prolific Innovators Come Up with Great Ideas that Deliver Extraordinary Outcomes by Carla Johnson (June 2021 Release)

- Carla Johnson's book is a treasure trove of practical advice on aligning individual abilities with innovative techniques to achieve remarkable business outcomes. The book emphasizes that sustainable innovation doesn't have to be intimidating. By following a simple framework and fostering an idea-driven culture, organizations can become more adaptable and innovative.

Each of these books offers unique insights and actionable strategies to help individuals and organizations harness the power of innovative thinking. Whether you're an individual looking to spark creativity or a business leader aiming to drive innovation within your organization, these books provide the tools and inspiration needed to think differently and achieve groundbreaking results.