Today’s mind power tip is courtesy of Roger von Oech and his “Creative Whack Pack.” Get a set. You’ll love them. A simple idea when you’re working on a creative solution to a problem: Pause for a Bit.
In Toastmaster’s, one of the marks of an experienced speaker is that they have learned to use The Pause properly. Powerful creative problem solvers do the same. When you can’t find a solution to a problem, take a break from it and go and do something else, something relaxing… let it go. As von Oech says: Give the muse time to whisper in your ear.
What problem have you been trying to force a solution to? Give it a pause.
I think this is one of von Oech’s most important ideas. I often find that creativity gets stifled by not taking a pause.
Very good point on public speaking. A lot of speakers are in a rush to finish their speeches and miss the power of the pause.