How to Think Outside the Box
Whenever I ponder on the phrase “Think outside the box”, the words fourth dimensional thinking comes to mind. I began to investigate and understand this concept when I was invited to be a keynote speaker at a 3 day conference in the year 2018.
I spent time studying this concept until I came to a personal conclusion of what it means to think outside the box in truth. This culminated in the birth of two of my books titled “4D Thinking” and “Unlocking your Creativity”.
What is A Dimension of Thinking?
A dimension of thinking can be seen as the way things, situations, problems and circumstances appear to a person, when viewed from a certain direction or perspective.
Simply put, your dimension can also be seen as your plane of existence or plane of reasoning, and it reflects on how you see things. This plays a pivotal role in determining how you view the circumstances or problems you face at your home, office, business, school and in life generally.
There are diferent dimensons of thinking. There are zero dimensional thinkers, one dimensional thinkers, two dimensional thinkers, third dimensional thinkers and fourth dimensional thinkers.
Your dimension also affects your approach toward problem-solving and this holds a serious impact in how much you experience the upward and forward movement we know as progress.
It shapes how you perceive and approach the challenges you encounter. The way you see the world greatly influences your problem-solving abilities and determines the extent of your progress.
By expanding our dimension of thinking, and going beyond third dimensional to fourth dimensional thinking, you unlock new possibilities and open the doors to success.
What does “Think outside the Box” mean?
To think outside the box is to think beyond the third dimensional plane of reasoning. The “box” refers to the third dimension, and the third dimension is characterised by what we can see, touch, feel, taste and hear with our natural senses.
To be creative, you need to be able to think beyond the ordinary plane of existence. No wonder the Bible says that things that are visible were not made from the things that appear to the natural senses (Heb 11:3).
In other words, if you want to bring something into existence, you have to function in the fourth dimension, which is an invisible realm. From the fourth dimenson, you can bring into existence in the third dimension, whatever you capture with your mind.
How to Think Outside the Box
1. Embrace Curiosity
Cultivate a natural curiosity about the world around you. Ask questions, seek new perspectives, and challenge assumptions.
Be open to exploring different viewpoints and consider unconventional ideas.
2. Practice Divergent Thinking
Divergent thinking involves generating a wide range of ideas and possibilities. Engage in brainstorming sessions or mind mapping exercises to encourage free-flowing, unrestricted thinking. Allow yourself to explore even the most seemingly wild or unusual ideas without judgment.
Check this blog for more insight on how to brainstorm ideas. Also read this blog for more insights on how to be a divergent thinker.
3. Seek Inspiration from Unrelated Fields
Look beyond your immediate area of expertise or industry for inspiration. Draw insights from different disciplines, cultures, or historical periods.
Explore art, literature, science, or nature to spark fresh connections and unique perspectives.
4. Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity
Don’t be afraid to take risks or make mistakes. Embrace failure as a valuable learning experience that can lead to unexpected discoveries.
View setbacks as opportunities to reassess, pivot, and explore alternative paths.
5. Surround Yourself with Diverse Thinkers
Engage in conversations and collaborations with individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. This diversity of thought can challenge your own assumptions and inspire new ways of thinking.
6. Break Routines and Patterns
Step out of your comfort zone and break away from established routines and patterns. Introduce novelty into your daily life by trying new experiences, visiting new places, or exposing yourself to unfamiliar situations. This can stimulate fresh perspectives and open up new avenues of thinking.
7. Encourage Playfulness and Creativity
Incorporate playful activities, hobbies, or creative outlets into your life. Engaging in activities like painting, writing, or playing musical instruments can stimulate your imagination and encourage innovative thinking.
8. Embrace Constraints
Instead of viewing constraints as limitations, see them as opportunities for creative problem-solving. Embracing limitations can spur innovative solutions and force you to think beyond the obvious.
9. Practice Mindfulness and Reflection
Set aside dedicated time for reflection, meditation, or mindfulness practices. These activities can help quiet the mind, enhance self-awareness, and encourage deeper insights and connections. Read this blog for more insights on mindstorming.
10. Continuously Learn and Stay Curious
Foster a lifelong love of learning. Stay updated with current trends, advancements, and emerging technologies in your field and beyond. Explore new ideas, attend workshops or conferences, and seek out opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Conclusion: Think outside the Box
By incorporating these practices into your life, you can nurture your ability to think outside the box and embrace the limitless potential of your imagination.
Unlock the power of unconventional thinking and embark on a journey of continuous growth, innovation, and creative problem-solving.
Let me know your response in the comment section. What strategies you are going to start using right away?
Additional resource:
- How I Became a Thought Leader in Creativity – 10 Inspiring Stories
- 5 Amazing Creativity Lessons I Borrowed From Mary
- 8 Great Ways to Amplify Your Creativity With Intuition
PS: If you would like to schedule me to be a keynote speaker for your event or conference to speak and present on creativity related topics that could stimulate your attendees to become fourth dimensional thinkers, fill this form and we can work something out.
Check out my latest book titled “Ignite Your Creativity” here.
