Course Objectives

After completing this course, participants will be able to:

· Develop and consider a multitude of alternative possibilities.

· Commit to specific courses of action depending upon the issues.

· Challenge barriers to thinking which exclude growth.

· Move from idea to solution through pulling others into the implementation.

Course Overview

In today’s fast-paced, chaotic work environment, the way it has “always been done” may not be the most productive. Finding new answers to customer problems, team interactions, and day-to-day management needs are critical.

This interactive workshop probes the habitual ways in which we trap our thinking. Personal thinking styles are assessed so that participants can strengthen their ability to adapt those styles to individual and Situational thinking challenges. The filters, anchors and paradigms which frame thinking patterns are identified and a variety of ways to expand them are practiced. Strategies to overcome the barriers to innovative thinking are planned to minimize future self-imposed limitations.

Thinking is studied in the context of the audience’s needs. The various types of thinking--problem solving, decision making, creativity, and plan implementation analysis--are discussed and methods for using specific tools to facilitate thinking are demonstrated. Throughout the session, the theme of “re-thinking” challenges participants to conceive alternative solutions.

This workshop is easily adapted for an organization interested in specific team results. It can build skills in creative thinking or can emphasize problem solving and decision making. Exercises, group activities, and thinking tools are adapted for the tailored presentation.

Bring on to your site or ours at Evergreen Team Concepts Bellingham, Washington training facility.

AGENDA

Thinking About Thinking

In the beginning module of the workshop, participants assess their own thinking preferences. Concepts of framing and anchoring communication form the foundation for planning strategies to increase one’s effect through more whole brain thinking.

· Brain Power

· A Second Look at Thinking

· Whole Brain Thinking: Getting Beyond the Boundaries

Barriers to Thinking

Causes of thinking within boundaries and minimizing innovative thinking are discussed. Interactive discussion and small group activities focus on methods to increase the possibilities.

· Thinking Styles: Lock in or Expand Thinking

· Six Barriers to Thinking

· Methods for Attacking the Thought Barriers

Creating Alternatives

In this module, the left and the right brain merge as participants are shown how to logically become more innovative. A step-by-step process lays out methods for thinking outside the boundaries.

· Logical Steps to Creative Solutions

· A Problem Solving Process

· Creative Methods for Achieving Results

Stepping Outside the Boundaries

Small and large group exercises probe methods and identify a variety of techniques to increase creativity both for an individual and for teams. Strategies to increase innovation and be more comfortable with the creative process are outlined.

· What is Creativity, and Who Has It?

· Outside the Lines Ideas

· Brainstorming Outside the Lines Solutions

Action Planning for Success

The final module of the day begins the process of turning knowledge into learning. The emphasis is on identifying both the traps and the opportunities and developing a personal plan.