4. Immerse Yourself in Your Subject

Finding Nemo

Whatever your topic is, dive in head first and allow it to consume you. This is a strategy suggested by many Imagineers in “The Imagineering Workout.” If you’re designing an aquarium, hit the beach, set your screensaver to aquatic themes, put Finding Nemo on repeat, read guidebooks about scuba adventures, go snorkeling, and listen to beach music. Fill your mind with fishy thoughts (no, not that kind) until you’re seeing fins even when there’s no direct correlation. That’s when the really creative ideas will start flowing.

3. Re-Learn How to Play

Children are naturally imaginative. They don’t know yet what’s possible or impossible so they can think without the pesky constraints that adults face. If you have kids, get down on the floor and play with them. If not, try to recapture your own childhood. Play with your favorite elementary school toys. Break out the play dough and coloring books. Re-read beloved childhood stories. Go back to a simpler time and see what emerges.

2. Cut Down on Distractions

Some Imagineers find their inspiration during a quiet car ride. Others find that brilliance strikes during a meditative workout. The common element is silence. If you fill your day with music, television, apps, conversation, and general noise, you won’t be able to hear your ideas even if they’re screaming for you to let them out. Lay quietly in bed and let your mind roam instead of watching TV. Drive or run without a soundtrack. You might be surprised at what fills the silence.

1. Delve Deeper into Your Reactions

You may have a general idea of what you like and don’t like, but have you explored these feelings deeper? Stop to really experience something you love. Think about why you love it. Do the cool colors soothe you? Are you in love with the gentle rhythmic percussion? Really identify the elements that speak to you. Do this same exercise with things that you dislike. You may begin to find common elements that lead you to new inspirations for your projects.

This will also help you pitch your ideas to others, whether you’re selling a project to your boss or your family. If you find your audience wavering, you’ll be prepared to point out the appealing details that make it a sure winner.

These little tricks will help you approach every project like a pro. Jump outside your usual constraints and do something new. Let Imagineering be your guide.