Thinking Outside the Box

We have all heard the term "Thinking Outside the Box". We know that it is thinking differently, but how do we do it?

We need to start by what is meant by the box. A box has four walls (and a top and bottom). When we want to store something in the box, we must put it within those four walls. We can't put it outside the box, because then it won't be stored.

Our thinking is limited by the same four walls. Everything we know creates the four walls.

Why is this important? If you are limited by what you know, you can't think outside the box! That's why many inventions come from people who are not focused in the area where they invent. They have a different background (a different box). They think "outside of your box".

What can you do about this? There are many ways, including reading books in fields, taking courses, hiring a coach, talking to suppliers, etc. Having a mentor helps you think about your business and challenges differently. Often you can solve your own problems by having them ask questions. As you try to explain, you come up with the answer.

In my case, I do a lot of reading, I work with different types of businesses and get to learn as I help them. I am also a member of BNI (Business Network International) as well as an Ambassador with BNI. This allows me to visit other chapters. Each week, one of the specialists within the chapter gives a ten minute speech about his/her business. I have been amazed at how much I learned about subjects that I knew nothing about. My learning has not allowed me to be a specialist at these services. It has provided me an insight into problems that I may encounter in my business or in my clients' businesses. When I encounter these problems, I know who to go to. I know someone who specializes in solving or preventing this type of problem.

Have problems that you don't know how to solve? Need to think outside the box? Start to network and find people that can help you do it? It can save your business!

Marc Lachance, The Virtual CIO, nominated as a Notable Networker

I've just come back from a Mediterranean Cruise and found that it was a busy week. I thought I would start with the fact that I have been nominated by my BNI chapter as a "Notable Networker".

Having been a founding member of my chapter, its first President, and now an Ambassador for Coporate BNI Chapters, I know what an honour it is to have been nominated.

The best way to explain is to reference the letter I just received from the Executive Director of BNI.

"Congratulations!

You have been voted by your BNI chapter members as one of this year's nominees for the chapter Notable Networker Award.

On Thursday November 6th we will be recognizing each chapter award recipient. In being nominated you are clearly viewed by your referral partners in BNI as someone who practices the Givers Gain philosophy consistently. Making that kind of positive impression as a business person is indicative of your ongoing professionalism, contribution and willingness to help others, all of which are the traits of authentic givers.

The Awards Gala is held in celebration, and appreciation of those, like you, who give so much to the BNI referral program.

We look forward to celebrating with you."