Lateral Thinking: Creativity Step by Step by Edward de Bono

Creativity, problem solving, and innovation have long been challenges for humanity. Learning to think outside the box and develop creative solutions, however, has been a skill for many generations. Edward de Bono, a leading innovator and innovator of creative thinking, has written extensively on the subject, and his book Lateral Thinking: Creativity Step by Step is an excellent guide to the topic.

In Lateral Thinking: Creativity Step by Step, de Bono presents an in-depth explanation of what lateral thinking is. He explains that it is a new way of approaching problems and challenges that are unexpected and not easily solved by traditional problem solving methods. To do this, de Bono argues, people must explore beyond the box of traditional thinking and apply creative techniques, such as brainstorming and imagination, to solve problems and innovate.

De Bono also advocates for a more creative approach to problem-solving in the workplace. He suggests that when approaching a problem, people should be open to all possibilities, even those that may seem counterintuitive or generally dissatisfying. By allowing matter how impractical a solution may appear, de Bono argues, new paths and potential solutions to a problem can be discovered.

De Bono stresses that creative thinking should not be confined to the workplace. Lateral thinking can also be applied to educational, recreation, and leisure activities. In these areas, creativity is essential for learning and growth. To equip people with these valuable skills, de Bono advises finding different approaches to problems and coming up with unusual or surprising solutions.

One of de Bono’s key concepts is the “Six Hats of Thinking” approach, which encourages problem solving and decisions-making based on multiple perspectives. This approach consists of six hats, which represent a variety of opinions or points of view: the white hat (objective information or facts), the green hat (creativity and brainstorming ideas), the blue hat (overarching view), the yellow hat (good points and benefits), the black hat (problems), and the red hat (feelings and emotions).

De Bono puts forth a variety of exercises and activities to help readers master creative thinking in their individual lives. He offers a series of exercises and step-by-step guides on how to improve creativity and develop new thinking patterns. He also discusses techniques for overcoming creative roadblocks, such as procrastination, avoidance, and perfectionism.

Lateral Thinking: Creativity Step by Step is an invaluable guide for anyone looking to add creativity to their problem-solving toolkit. Edward de Bono’s insightful approach to problem solving is sure to add value not only to professionals in the workplace, but to individuals seeking to use their creative talents to solve problems in any setting.