Analytical thinking and critical thinking are like two sides of the same coin. Both are required for the successful progress of any venture. Having gone through both concepts, I realized that there are major differences between analytical thinking and creative thinking. After thorough research, I noted that analytical thinking is based on logic that leads to the implementation of factual and structured solutions. Apparently, this type of thinking is usually supposed to lead to a specific decision. As a critical thinker, the critical thinking skill will help me look at the possible solutions, weigh their merits then narrow down the options, to choose the one that best meets the necessary criteria. Essentially, analytical thinking is supposed to solve something or make solid decisions by narrowing down the options. It also requires recollection and application of facts so that the unworkable options are eliminated.
Similarly, creative thinking is also about decision making. However, it takes the opposite approach and broadens the options. Creative thinking means that one is open to solutions from all sides. With a close look, I noted that while analytical thinking narrows down options, creative thinking generates more options. It widens the range of choices that one can engage in. I thus conclude that creative thinking is not limited by the structure and logic that is applicable in analytical thinking. Instead, there is liberty and a general consensus of openness. I believe that the creative thinker does not fear criticism or mockery from the people they will present their thoughts to. Their motive is to fill the missing pieces of the puzzle by redesigning or drawing the bigger picture. The creative thinker will then rearrange the pieces of the puzzle until some fit. In the process, he may discard some pieces and even create new ones (Dyer et al., 2011).
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2. Applying key skills and techniques to think creatively.
Thinking creatively requires the application of various skills and technical. The first is open mindedness. After going through the process of creative thinking, I realized that indeed creativity requires an open mind set that is not limited by ideology. Unfortunately, sometimes the creative process is often hampered by boundaries that are present in the mind. The open mind is therefore the most important technique to creativity. This gives the thinker the confidence to present ideas that may seem risky. Basically, the open mind will also need to be accomodative of the prospects that mistakes will be made. Creativity requires the confidence to make mistakes as it is an unpredictable process.
The second skill required is patience. Creativity does not always work well within the confines of time. It requires some flexibility and a willingness to work outside deadlines. After going through the course, I realize that this may be challenging for an impatient person who may feel that the project has been delayed by this gap in the process. However, I later realize that the process can be allowed to follow its own timeline in order to flourish. These skills are required for both the individual and the group setting (Serrat, 2017).
Applying key skills and techniques to think creatively in groups .
Individual creativity can be harnessed by trying out new things alone or in groups. For example, if a certain process at the workplace becomes too tedious, the individual can make some changes. If the changes are seen to save time, optimize effeciency, reduce the cost of operation or just make things easier, then the individual will have achieved operational creativity.
The other skill that is required in the creative process in group is a break away from routine, Serrat (2017) suggests that this is needed in order to avoid getting back to the tried and tested options. A person can do this by writing down the idea that needs solving and then assigning it the largest number of solutions that come to mind. The list should then be placed in an easily accessible place where a fresh idea can be added immediately it comes to mind. The creative thinker must also regularly update this list to remove those that may be tried and not found fit.
The final important skill or technique that can be used is brainstorming. Here, a lot of creative ideas may be generated if the creative team are required to engage each other without notice. The head of creative department can call for an impromptu meeting where they asks each team member to give their first thoughts on an idea. I therefore suggest that to prevent confusion and ensure that everyone gets to present their honest opinion, one can direct for the ideas to be written down. After everyone is done, the ideas can be discussed over an open and respectful forum. Leopoldino, González and Júnior (2016) further add that the ideas will be dissected for their merits and demerits. The creators may then fill out his idea to the point where it is feasible. This is similar to drawing a stick diagram of a man and then slowly filling it out with the body parts that make it whole. However, the idea works best when creative thinking is required in a group or team setting. Other ideas can also be generated when the ideas of members are combined to form a mega idea(Leopoldino, González & Júnior, 2016).
Specific behaviors to increase your creative thinking
There are certain habits that can positively influence the creative process. This habits will keep the mind actively involved in generating fresh and original content. Rethinking the concept is a good start. As a creative thinker, instead of using the old approach, suggest that you try something different. For example, if you are trying to market a business, sell the solution instead of highlighting the problem. Another important tip is when examining the solution, focus on the reason that resonates the most. According to Leopoldino, González and Júnior (2016), harnessing your emotions can also boost your creativity. Any powerful emotion can indicate the ideal time to explore creativity. Such a time charges the mind to explore ideas that may have never been considered.
Exercise stimulates the brain and releases new aspects of creativity. It also gives the body a fresh burst of energy that keeps the body going for longer. This can be followed by looking at the problem with a counter approach. According to Leopoldino, González and Júnior (2016), this can be used to compare opposites and then generate a solution. I strongly believe that turnout can occur during the creative process if too much is explored in a short time. Leopoldino, González and Júnior (2016) further adds that the solution to this is to restrict ones options. I therefore recommend that this be done by choosing only one aspect of the problem and focusing all the new input to this venture. Another other way to overcome fatigue is to restrict yourself with a very short deadline . This will force you to think on your feet without double guessing and changing your mind.
SCAMPER method for problem solving
The Substitute Combine Adapt Modify Put to another use Eliminate Reverse (SCAMPER) method is one of the problem solving solutions that incorporates both analytical and creative thinking. I believe the Substitute technique encourages one to replace a certain aspect of their process with one that may be more effective. Combine brings several ideas and concepts together. Adapt leads to changes in the business model to suit the market needs and technological advances. Modify encourages downgrading or upgrading various aspects so that the problem can be adressed realistically. Put to another use encourages getting more out of the same thing. Eg by recycling waste products. Eliminate targets the removal of aspects that no longer add value to the system. Finally, reverse means going against the original purpose of something because a better purpose was created (Serrat, 2017). The SCAMPER techniques are all about improving an existing identity instead of creating some thing from the beginning. All the information is a summary of the creativity and innovation course. It highlights the aspects that brought out the essence of the course.
References
Dyer, J., Gregersen, H., & Christensen, C. M. (2011). The innovator's DNA: Mastering the five skills of disruptive innovators . Harvard Business Press.
Leopoldino¹, K., González, M., & Júnior, J. (2016). Factors that contribute to collective creativity development in organizations.
Serrat, O. (2017). The SCAMPER technique. In Knowledge Solutions (pp. 311-314). Springer, Singapore.
