Creative Thinkering - by Michael Michalko (Paperback)

About the Book

Why isn't everyone creative? Why doesn't education foster more ingenuity? Why is expertise often the enemy of innovation? Best-selling creativity expert Michael Michalko shows that in every field of endeavor, from business and science to government, the arts, and even day-to-day life -- natural creativity is limited by the prejudices of logic and the structures of accepted categories and concepts. Through step-by-step exercises, illustrated strategies, and inspiring real-world examples he shows readers how to liberate their thinking and literally expand their imaginations by learning to synthesize dissimilar subjects, think paradoxically, and enlist the help of the subconscious mind. He also reveals the attitudes and approaches diverse geniuses share -- and anyone can emulate. Fascinating and fun, Michalko's strategies facilitate the kind of light-bulb moment thinking that changes lives -- for the better.

Book Synopsis

Why isn't everyone creative? Why doesn't education foster more ingenuity? Why is expertise often the enemy of innovation? Best-selling creativity expert Michael Michalko shows that in every field of endeavor, from business and science to government, the arts, and even day-to-day life -- natural creativity is limited by the prejudices of logic and the structures of accepted categories and concepts. Through step-by-step exercises, illustrated strategies, and inspiring real-world examples he shows readers how to liberate their thinking and literally expand their imaginations by learning to synthesize dissimilar subjects, think paradoxically, and enlist the help of the subconscious mind. He also reveals the attitudes and approaches diverse geniuses share -- and anyone can emulate. Fascinating and fun, Michalko's strategies facilitate the kind of light-bulb moment thinking that changes lives -- for the better.

Review Quotes

"Michael Michalko alters thinking, and his books alter actions. Creative Thinkering is amazing in three ways: it's easy to read, easy to understand, and easy to apply the minute you read it. Every time I read a chapter in a Michael Michalko book I learn something so new, I say, 'aha!' So will you."
-- Jeffrey Gitomer, author of The Little Red Book of Selling

"A gym for your genius and a playground for practicing creative problem solving, Creative Thinkering is equipped with innovative exercises to strengthen your intuition. Michael Michalko's mind-bending tips and techniques invite fresh perspectives that lead to remarkable results."
-- Jennifer Lee, author of The Right-Brain Business Plan

"Michael Michalko will take you on a delicious ride to the next evolutionary level of understanding why creative thinking is often counterintuitive and what methods work to break stilted thinking. Not a day goes by that I don't employ several of Michael's methods. I hope you employ the genius found in Creative Thinkering and carve out a new way of thinking and living that will bring you the fulfillment those methods have brought me."
-- Terry Stickels, puzzle writer and columnist

"In Creative Thinkering, we learn how to tease creativity out of life through the power of intention, letting the subconscious do the rest. The book includes ample exercises, techniques, and puzzles, and is full of ways to engage your brain, a suitable pursuit for anyone who wants to have a little more fun with life -- or to avoid senility. Use Mr. Michalko's tricks to step outside your cone of expectations and intentions the next time you need to develop a fantastic idea."
-- The New York Journal of Books

About the Author

Michael Michalko is one of the most acclaimed creativity experts in the world. His bestselling books include Thinkertoys, ThinkPak, and Cracking Creativity. He has given speeches, workshops, and seminars on fostering creative thinking for clients ranging from associations and government agencies to Fortune 500 corporations, such as DuPont, Kellogg's, General Electric, Kodak, Microsoft, Exxon, General Motors, Ford, AT&T, Wal-Mart, Gillette, and Hallmark. He lives in Rochester, New York.