If a problem just won’t move, it might not be because you aren’t trying hard enough or thinking logically. Sometimes, it’s about how you’re looking at the problem. That’s where lateral thinking comes in.
Edward de Bono developed the concept of lateral thinking. It means looking at problems from different angles. Instead of following the usual path, we question assumptions, ask new questions, and look for unexpected solutions.
Logical thinking helps us test and refine ideas, while lateral thinking helps us generate new ones. We need both approaches.
For example, if a company wants to make customers happier, the usual answer might be to speed up service or better train staff. But with lateral thinking, you might ask whether the real issue is the steps customers take before they even reach you. This new angle can lead to better solutions.
Two Techniques
Two common lateral thinking techniques are reversal and provocation. Reversal means turning an assumption on its head to find new options. Provocation gets you thinking differently by adding a strange or unexpected idea.
Not every idea from lateral thinking will work in real life. Some just aren’t practical. Still, the method is important because it helps us get past the usual answers.
If logical thinking isn’t working, try looking at the problem from a different angle to find new ideas.
