When it comes to innovation, driving change and finding creative solutions to problems at work, many of us just don't know where to start. It can be easy to fall into the trap of thinking you are just not innovative.

But in the words of innovation expert Yesenia Sevilla,

'Everyone is capable of innovation and everyone should be innovating...

 

Regardless of who you are, where you live, what language you speak, what you've studied, because we all are sharing in the human experience.'

In a recent episode of the HerSuccess podcast, we had the pleasure of diving deep into the world of innovation with Yesenia. Drawing on Yesenia's experience and insights, we've compiled actionable tips on how cultivate an innovative mindset.

Tips for developing an innovative mindset:

Fill your backpack and toolbelt

Start by visualizing innovation as an adventure. Pack your 'backpack' with experiences and your 'toolbelt' with skills. This mindset encourages continuous learning and application of knowledge, and can be useful in careers where soft skills dominate and may feel less tangible.

Stop 'thinking outside of the box'

As Yesenia points out while blue sky thinking can be fun and spark ideas, we rarely have unlimited resources and total freedom to work with. Instead, we have to learn to innovate 'inside the box' and find unique solutions within the limitations we face. This approach pushes creative thinking and problem-solving, proving that constraints can actually fuel innovation.

Fall in Love with the Problem, Not the Solution

Focusing on problems rather than jumping to solutions allows for a deeper understanding of what you're actually trying to solve. This shift in perspective opens up a wider range of potential solutions, some of which may be less obvious but more effective.

Understand your strengths

Are you a radical innovator or adaptive innovator? What are your strengths? If you don't know a system like Gallup can help you understand where you naturally thrive. When you know your own strengths you can think about where they might best be applied and where you might need help from others.

Innovation is about implementation

Being creative with new ideas is great, but in order to drive innovation these ideas have to be implemented. Think about how you can build the partnerships you need to address your problem and implement the solution.

Everyone can be an innovator; you don't need to be an engineer or work in tech to innovate! Follow Yesenia's tips to start developing an innovative mindset and drive change in your own work.

Want to learn more about innovation? Tune into our latest episode with Yesenia Sevilla!