Hey, everyone, it's Leo, your innovation coach!
Today, I want to take you on a journey that will enlighten you on why associative thinking is such a powerful tool for innovators. Associative thinking, in essence, is the ability to connect unrelated dots and ideas in innovative ways. It's a key trait of groundbreaking creators and something I cover extensively in my workshops.
A unique culinary experience
Last week, I had a culinary experience that vividly illustrated the power of associative thinking in Alpharetta, Georgia. I was there for a Speaker Showcase by Voices to Connect.
On my way to my hotel, I drove by a restaurant called Mashawi. It caught my eye so I turned in. This restaurant encapsulates a unique concept—imagine a Brazilian steakhouse meeting Mediterranean and Persian cuisine.
Walking through its doors, I was informed that I'd be dining on every dish laid out on the menu. I *HAD* to do it.
Unraveling flavourful combinations
This was no ordinary dining event. Placed before me were various appetizers, salads, and dips. Alongside these were a plethora of salads, tantalizing my taste buds with myriad flavours that could mingle as I pleased. If that wasn't intriguing enough, the array of proteins that followed was equally diverse. At one point, I had over 30 different dishes in front of me.
From kebabs and falafel to schnitzel and steak, the choice seemed endless. I quickly realized that this was a gourmet playground, where I could concoct surprising flavor blends. Have you ever tried sirloin steak with a touch of garlic sauce, tahini, or baba ghanoush?
Associative thinking in action
As I enjoyed each unique bite, it was clear to me that this was the essence of associative thinking in action. You're essentially given dots—or in this case, dishes—and are free to connect them in any way you want. This concept parallels a method I teach: the art of collecting dots.
Collecting dots
Collecting dots is about gaining new experiences, knowledge, or perspectives—essentially indulging your curiosity without immediate tangible purpose. Imagine venturing into topics that aren't directly linked to your field, like researching sharks if you're in tech. Initially, it might seem pointless, but the magic of associative thinking lies in these seemingly unrelated dots.
Much like the meals at Mashawi, seemingly unrelated bits of knowledge can sometimes amalgamate into incredible ideas. By indulging in diverse experiences, your brain gains more material to work with, weaving surprising connections in unforeseen moments. It’s the same principle as combining flavours at the restaurant.
Steve Jobs
Allow me to illustrate this with a story about one of the tech world's greatest innovators—Steve Jobs. During his time at Reed College, Jobs took a class in calligraphy. In his Stanford commencement speech, Jobs said that the class lacked any practical application. Yet a decade later, this dot directly influenced the Macintosh computer's launch, transforming it into the first personal computer with beautiful typography.
Jobs’ story exemplifies how seemingly irrelevant dots can come together to form critical innovations. His fascination with calligraphy lay dormant in his mind until the moment came to incorporate it into revolutionary technology. It was a connection that took years to unfold but, ultimately, redefined personal computing.
"You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backward." — Steve Jobs
Go and collect dots!
I hope my meal at Mashawi inspires you. Go and collect dots: explore new activities and knowledge areas, even if they seem unrelated. The power of associative thinking thrives in these connections, inspiring ideas when you least expect them.
If you found this story insightful, I'd love for you to share it with a friend or leave a comment below.
To dive deeper into associative thinking, feel free to reach out.
I offer this as an on-demand course and live training sessions tailored to ignite curiosity and innovation within teams.
Until we meet again, continue to explore, collect dots, and most importantly—stay innovative!
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