Play devil's advocate, urges Rekha Shetty in Innovate Happily (www.penguinbooksindia.com). “As a discipline, think of the exact opposite of the view you have been holding. If you've been saying ‘Yes,' get the motivation to say ‘No.' For example, if you are an optimist, work out the motivations of the pessimist,” she adds.

But, why so? Because most of us tend to see situations through the flawed windows of our own nature, reasons the author. “We are optimistic or pessimistic and do not really participate with others in understanding all aspects and connotations of a problem. Using the devil's advocate approach can help us study all aspects of a problem.”

To managers, the author's advice is to consider thinking as a major activity, even while others feel busy and productive leaping into activity. For, creativity helps organisations find alternative solutions; and progress depends on constantly striving, through innovation, to delight the customer, she notes.

Engaging read.

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