One of the core tenets of my coaching is exactly this: the power of “the idea that might lead to the idea.”

In developing new material or even in revamping old, this is critical. We so often get stuck in old patterns of thinking and when get that flash — that creative impulse (however wacky) — it is worth paying attention to.

I believe this is your creative genius at work.

When I start working with a new client, I always explain the importance of this — of not tossing out any ideas too soon. This gives them freedom to brainstorm without fear of judgment and often what follows is a client will say that day or at a future session, “OK. I know this is kind of strange. But it could be ‘the idea that leads to the idea.'” And we are off and running.

So…let’s look at that as it applies to your next interaction in which the topic always feels kind of the same in tone, content and delivery: perhaps it’s a weekly staff meeting, an annual convention, a regular get together with some family members or friends at which things are always “kind of the same.”

What’s your wild idea to shake things up? Begin by saying quietly to yourself, “Wouldn’t it be cool if…?” and see where your imagination takes you.