For many of us who tend to think in a linear, structured way (especially process-oriented me), thinking creatively does not come naturally. It takes guidance and suggestions that encourage new ways of thinking or seeing an issue from another perspective. That's why I was happy to read in David Armano's Logic + Emotion blog that Roger von Oech, the author of A Whack on the Side of the Head, has started his own blog.

Back when I was starting in social marketing years ago as an intern at Porter/Novelli in DC, everyone in the company received a copy of his book, plus the accompanying Creative Whack Pack -- a deck of cards with a different creative technique on each. I've used the book and pack when I've needed some inspiration to spark my creativity.

As an example, the picture above is on a card titled "Change Its Name":

If an architect looks at an opening between two rooms and thinks "door," that's what she'll design. But if she thinks "passageway," she may design something much different like a "hallway," "air curtain," "tunnel," or perhaps a "courtyard." Different words bring in different assumptions and lead your thinking in different directions. What else can you call your idea?

If you need a little creative pick-me-up, check out Roger's blog and get whacked.

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