Brainstorming Ideas

Brainstorming ideas is an activity that stimulates thinking. When you brainstorm you think deeply and come out with possible solutions before you make a decision.

"The best way to get a good idea is to get a lot of ideas". - Linus Pauling

How to Brainstorm

Identify the problem and write it down in the form of a question.

For example, write your question like this, "How can I earn $xxx by the end of this year? By defining it specifically, you are giving clarity as to what you intend to achieve. When you ask yourself a "how" question, your brain will look for answers. You will stay focused and attract the corresponding thoughts.

List down your thoughts and ideas but don't evaluate.

At this point of time do not bother yourself about the viability. You can do that later. Continue until you reach at least 20. If you are inspired, write 35. When you are able to push yourself to get the list, you will get inspired to take action.

Pick one idea and start doing something about it.

Pick one from your list that you know you can start right away and just do it. By just starting something from your list, you will create a momentum to get going.

Brainstorming Ideas in a Team

Identify the problem or topic and write it down in the form of a question for all present.
Let the team knows of the importance of their roles in the process and you will encourage them to provide the 20 suggestions.
Inform those present that they are free to get their juices flowing and that their thoughts are not judged, criticized or validated for the merits.
Encourage them to use their imaginations by creating a picture of the desired result or a vision of the future.
Go around the table and get each one to offer their ideas and continue until you have obtained 20 contributions from each one.
Instead of asking each one to say it out and writing down on the flip chart, you could give each person a piece of paper and a time limit and to hand it over when they have come up with the required number.
Gather the list, identify, discuss and evaluate them and collectively choose the most workable one and you and your team can start an action plan to work towards it.

Brainstorming ideas is a powerful tool to get fast results and it is time saving. One of the ways to expand your mind for suggestions on a particular subject is to read voraciously. You will inevitably improve your vocabulary. Words have the power to generate creative ideas and a daring imagination.