Lateral Thinking is the capability to tackle problems through an innovative and creative approach. We are all encouraged to form judgments involving unconventional perspectives contrary to the directly obvious traditional impressions.
Class Exercise
Imagine a room, there is a vase on a table, in which a fresh rose stands. On the opposite wall, a painting of flowers is hung. A bee flies into the room through an open window, straight to the painting and not the real rose. Why?!?!
Usual solutions
1. The bee has genetic problem which prevents it from detecting the fragrance of rose
2. The painting looks extremely real
3. The acrylic painting emits rich fragrance
4. The color of rose is not bright or dull
Unusual solutions
1. The bee is over-speeding, unable to brake in time.
3. The bee falls in love at first sight with the painting
4. The bee forgets to wear its spectacles
5. The bee is sick and not feeling well
6. The bee is not a big fan of roses
7. The bee is allergic to pollen
8. The painting is a safer choice as roses have thorns
Real Life Situation
Situation 1
A little girl was throwing tantrums inside a crowded shopping mall. Desperate to stop her crying, her parents must come up with plans to soothe her immediately. How?!?!
Usual Solutions
1. Buy her new toys
2. Bribe her with snacks or candies
4. Tell her jokes or pleasant tales
5. Tickle her or play with her
6. Reason with her about consequences
Unusual Solutions
1. Call the police for assistance
2. Mesmerize her with magic tricks
3. Hunt for a Prince Charming for her company
4. Cry together and compete who can last longer
5. Reward someone who successfully please her
6. Ignore her by singing "Let It Go"
Situation 2
I recently indulged myself in an exquisite dessert shop called YOGART. While majority considers yogurt as a highly nutritious food, YOGART throws away preconceptions and responds to provocation of new patterns by converting yogurt into an up-and-coming brand of ice cream.
A delicately decorated design board
Friendly, welcoming ambience of the store.
Dazzling yet informative banners
Customers can enjoy tea break comfortably and leisurely
Relaxing and laid-back atmosphere
Yogurt ice creams
With dark chocolate topping
With strawberry topping
Reflection
When we examine lateral thinking scenarios, we are forcing our minds to ponder on aspects we might otherwise dismiss or fail to comprehend completely. We should not pursue established logic blindly, but be open to wide selection of possibilities and thus ultimately enhancing our senses.
