“Where there is an open mind, there will always be a frontier.” Charles F. Kettering When I went into a brainstorming session at work early in my career, there was usually an idea tossed out that went against my grain. I couldn’t always articulate my discomfort, I just knew it was a bad idea…but you can’t discuss during a brainstorming session.
The effect it had on me was to withdraw, disengage from the process. I would inwardly conclude the activity was a waste of time, and then acquiesce to the general consensus without sharing my views. This was not productive because then I had to implement the new idea that I didn’t believe in, an idea that didn’t align with my values. After trained in brainstorm methodology, I realized that many sessions skipped the second step: evaluation. Evaluation is not there to limit creative ideas, it’s there to free up creative idea generation by ensuring that later each idea would be measured against the guiding principles of the task, the vision, or the organization. Every project, program or mission has guiding principles; those non-negotiable limits we live within. At work it was the company’s core values, legal restrictions, and safety regulations. At church it was our statement of faith, and those biblically-based commands and procedures (e.g. church discipline). Once trained, I led brainstorming sessions making a point to neutralize resistance. I recognized the creative person’s need for freedom of ideas, and the cautious person’s need for no compromise. We reviewed the brainstorming process, covered the purpose of each step, and then identified the guiding principles we were following. I learned that even a cautious person like me can be a great idea generator if we are secure in knowing our core values will not be compromised. And, when I had that security, I was eager to explore new frontiers. I was even more open to change, especially if it meant that more people might come to know and love God as a result. Is there something keeping you back from being open-minded in some area of your life? Is there someone you can put at ease by first acknowledging their core value concern? Are there unspoken non-negotiable guiding principles that need to be discussed...or documented? Lord, help me to be open-minded when it comes to ways of keeping the church relevant for today’s young people without compromising the core tenants of the faith. Amen “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2 What are your thoughts? Libby Note: Charles F. Kettering (1876–1958) was an American inventor, engineer, businessman, and the holder of 186 patents. He was a founder of Delco, and was head of research at General Motors from 1920 to 1947. Among his 1911 inventions is the electrical starting motor still used in automobiles today.
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WelcomeI love the wisdom of the ages gleaned from relevant quotes. In them there is a connection to the human experience that crosses all borders. Join me as I relate my personal experiences, and link the wisdom of the quote to the Source of all wisdom: God's Word, the Bible. Enjoy, Libby Categories
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