Unleash Creativity & Innovate: Debunking Myths with Kevin Ashton

Table of Contents

1. The Creativity Myth Debunked
   • 1.1 Anyone Can Unleash Their Creativity
   • 1.2 Debunking the Myths of Genius and Innate Talent
   • 1.3 Creativity as the Act of Problem-Solving
2. Building Innovations
   • 2.1 Innovation Depends on Collective Contributions
   • 2.2 The Ripple Effect of Innovations
   • 2.3 Balancing the Benefits and Problems of Innovation
3. Steve Jobs' Creative Process
   • 3.1 The iPhone: A Result of Step-by-Step Problem-Solving
   • 3.2 Overcoming Inattentional Blindness
4. The Role of Hard Work and Resilience in Creating Something Great
   • 4.1 Success Through Effort, Commitment, and Resilience
   • 4.2 Learning From Failure and Embracing Rejection
   • 4.3 The Dangers of Ignoring Expert Advice
5. The Power of Small Creative Teams
   • 5.1 Small Teams and the Benefits of Creative Conversation
   • 5.2 Balancing Group Problem-Solving and Individual Goals
   • 5.3 Cultivating Creativity Through Openness and Idea Sharing
6. Final Recap

How to Fly a Horse: Debunking the Myths of Creativity and Unleashing Your Innovation Potential ✈️

Creativity is often perceived as a rare spark of genius possessed by only a select few. However, in the book "How to Fly a Horse" by Kevin Ashton, the myth of creativity is debunked. Ashton argues that creativity is not a magical and innate talent, but instead the result of careful thinking and problem-solving. Through examples from history, science, and technology, he demonstrates that anyone can unleash their creativity by embracing a systematic and determined approach.

The Creativity Myth Debunked

1.1 Anyone Can Unleash Their Creativity

The idea that creativity is exclusive to a gifted few is a complete myth. Ashton highlights that all humans possess the ability to think creatively to solve problems. Creative thinking is not limited to certain individuals but varies in intensity among different people. By acknowledging this truth, we can break free from the belief that creativity is unattainable and open ourselves up to its possibilities.

1.2 Debunking the Myths of Genius and Innate Talent

The notion that geniuses are born, not made, is another deceptive myth. Ashton emphasizes that no creator is exempt from the rule of careful thinking and problem-solving. Examining the lives of famous inventors and their creations, such as Archimedes and the concept of water displacement, we see that success is not based on flashes of magical genius insight but on persistent efforts to solve problems.

1.3 Creativity as the Act of Problem-Solving

Creativity itself is merely the act of thinking about how to solve a problem. Ashton presents experiments like the Box Experiment, which demonstrate that the processes of arriving at solutions are the same for each person who attempts the experiment. This reinforces the idea that creativity is not limited to a chosen few, but a natural human ability that can be nurtured and cultivated.

Building Innovations

2.1 Innovation Depends on Collective Contributions

Innovation is often mistakenly attributed to moments of individual genius. However, Ashton emphasizes that innovations are built on the work of countless thinkers from the past. He shares the remarkable story of Edmond, a 12-year-old Black slave who discovered how to make the vanilla pod self-pollinate. This example showcases how innovations are the result of the collective contributions and cumulative knowledge of generations.

2.2 The Ripple Effect of Innovations

While innovations bring forth fresh opportunities, they also give rise to unforeseen problems. Ashton uses the evolution of Coca-Cola from a bottled patent medicine to a canned refreshment as an example. Each innovation solves current problems but introduces new challenges. Understanding this ripple effect helps us prepare for future creative problem-solving and develop solutions for the problems of tomorrow.

2.3 Balancing the Benefits and Problems of Innovation

The process of building upon innovations requires not only creativity but also hard work, commitment, and resilience. Ashton presents Steve Jobs' creative process as an example, where problem-solving and the ability to ask questions played a crucial role in the creation of the iPhone. However, inattentional blindness can hinder creativity by limiting our perception of possibilities. To overcome this, we need to approach problems with open minds and challenge our preconceived notions.

The Role of Hard Work and Resilience in Creating Something Great

4.1 Success Through Effort, Commitment, and Resilience

Creating something great demands effort, commitment, and resilience in the face of failure. While waiting for inspiration to strike is a popular belief, Ashton highlights that success is only achieved through hard work. He explores the rituals of Igor Stravinsky, who would play a Bach fugue before working, as an example of maintaining focus and staying on track. The path to greatness is not easy, but it is attainable through determination and perseverance.

4.2 Learning From Failure and Embracing Rejection

Failure is an inevitable part of the creative process. Stephen King, a renowned author, regularly discards hundreds of pages in pursuit of producing a good book. Ashton emphasizes that failure provides valuable lessons that help us grow and improve. Accepting rejection is also crucial as it guides us towards necessary changes in our next attempts. The cautionary tale of Franz Reichelt, who ignored expert advice and jumped from the Eiffel Tower with a flawed parachute, demonstrates the dangers of dismissing expertise and highlights the importance of learning from others.

4.3 The Dangers of Ignoring Expert Advice

Success is not solely dependent on individual brilliance but also on the ability to learn from others and seek expert advice. Ashton underscores the significance of heeding expert opinions and not disregarding their guidance. Listening to those with experience and expertise can prevent us from making grave mistakes and steer our creative efforts in the right direction.

The Power of Small Creative Teams

5.1 Small Teams and the Benefits of Creative Conversation

Creative work thrives in small, motivated teams that encourage open and creative conversations. Ashton explores the approach adopted by the creators of South Park, who identify and solve problems together before dividing tasks. While many companies stifle creative thinking, he highlights organizations that foster creativity through a process called "show me," which allows individuals to share and test new ideas. By working collaboratively in small teams, we can effectively solve creative problems and produce high-quality work within shorter time frames.

5.2 Balancing Group Problem-Solving and Individual Goals

Working in small creative teams requires finding a balance between group problem-solving and individual goals. Ashton emphasizes that while creative conversation is essential, each team member should also have the opportunity to pursue their personal objectives. This delicate balance ensures that individual talents are nurtured while maintaining a collective focus on solving creative problems.

5.3 Cultivating Creativity Through Openness and Idea Sharing

Cultivating creativity within small teams involves fostering an environment of openness and idea sharing. Ashton shares the example of Clarence "Kelly" Johnson at Lockheed, who used the "show me" process to create America's first jet fighter by solving a design flaw with a "twin" tail. Encouraging individuals to share and test new ideas creates a space for innovation to flourish. By embracing this approach, small creative teams can harness their collective creativity to solve complex problems and deliver exceptional results.

Final Recap

In "How to Fly a Horse," Kevin Ashton dispels the myths surrounding creativity and innovation. He emphasizes that creativity is not an exclusive trait reserved for a select few but a skill that can be honed through careful thinking and problem-solving. By debunking the belief in genius and innate talent, Ashton empowers individuals to unleash their creativity. He also emphasizes the value of hard work, resilience, and effective collaboration within small creative teams. Through a systematic and determined approach, anyone can achieve significant contributions and innovative solutions. Embrace the power of creativity and let "How to Fly a Horse" guide you to new heights of innovation and accomplishment.