The Explainer: Solving Problems by Starting with the Worst Idea Possible

Summary

Designer and author Ayse Birsel introduces the concept of 'wrong thinking on purpose'—deliberately imagining bad ideas as a tool for creative problem solving. By embracing seemingly awful solutions, like switching roles with a junior employee or spreading good rumors, individuals can adopt a beginner's mindset and spark new ideas. Other examples include intentionally failing to learn from mistakes, or banning technology to encourage face-to-face communication. Birsel’s approach encourages rethinking challenges and transforming negative ideas into innovative, breakthrough solutions.

Takeaways

• 😀 Embrace 'wrong thinking on purpose' as a tool to solve problems in new ways.
• 😀 The worst possible solution to a work challenge could lead to a brilliant idea when flipped.
• 😀 Switching roles with a junior staffer or intern can help you adopt a beginner's mindset and encourage learning.
• 😀 Junior employees taking on your role may spark fresh perspectives and creative solutions.
• 😀 Spreading good rumors instead of negative gossip can be a way to celebrate colleagues' strengths.
• 😀 Intentionally failing and learning from those failures can help overcome the fear of failure and foster growth.
• 😀 Creating a 'deliberate mistake lab' allows for learning and experimentation through mistakes.
• 😀 A no-technology day at work can emphasize the importance of face-to-face communication and mindful interactions.
• 😀 Sometimes, a seemingly awful idea can inspire innovation when viewed from a different perspective.
• 😀 Giving yourself permission to have a bad idea might lead to one of the best solutions.

Q & A

What is the main concept of Ayse Birsel's approach to problem-solving?

Ayse Birsel's approach is based on the concept of 'wrong thinking on purpose,' where you deliberately consider bad or counterintuitive solutions to challenges. This process can help discover innovative and creative ways to solve problems.

How does 'wrong thinking on purpose' help with problem-solving?

By entertaining bad ideas, individuals are forced to look at problems from unconventional angles, which can lead to new, more effective solutions. It encourages creativity and removes constraints tied to traditional thinking.

What is an example of how a bad idea can be turned into a good one?

One example is the idea of switching jobs with a junior staffer. Although this might seem absurd at first, it encourages adopting a beginner's mindset, where asking questions and learning from others leads to fresh insights and new ideas.

What benefits can come from spreading positive rumors about colleagues?

Spreading positive rumors can help celebrate and highlight colleagues' strengths. Instead of fostering negativity, it creates a culture of appreciation and motivation within the team.

Why is intentionally failing considered a beneficial practice?

Intentional failure allows people to learn from their mistakes in a controlled, non-judgmental environment. It reduces the fear of failure and encourages experimentation and growth, helping individuals and teams innovate and improve.

How can a no-technology day be beneficial in the workplace?

A no-technology day can foster better face-to-face communication, promote walking meetings, and encourage focused reflection without the distractions of emails or social media, ultimately improving productivity and well-being.

What is the purpose of switching roles with junior staff members in the workplace?

Switching roles with junior staffers helps experienced employees gain a fresh perspective, encourages them to ask more questions, and allows them to approach problems with curiosity and openness, just as a novice would.

How does 'wrong thinking on purpose' challenge traditional work dynamics?

'Wrong thinking on purpose' challenges the traditional hierarchical structures by empowering junior staff to experiment and come up with new solutions without the usual limitations imposed by their roles, and by allowing senior staff to adopt a beginner's mindset.

What role does failure play in Ayse Birsel's problem-solving method?

Failure plays a key role by being seen not as something to avoid, but as an opportunity to learn and innovate. The practice of intentionally failing allows individuals to break through fear and develop new, effective strategies.

How does embracing bad ideas ultimately lead to better problem-solving outcomes?

By initially considering bad or unlikely solutions, you open up space for creative thinking and prevent yourself from getting stuck in conventional approaches. This can lead to unexpected, yet highly effective solutions.