[blockquote source=”Gavin Adams”]Other’s inspiration can often create or spark innovation in you. [/blockquote]
I love the moment when I discover something new. Even if I end up trashing the idea, in that moment, I feel motivated and empowered to be better and do better. That moment makes me feel alive to encounter new ideas that improve what I’m already trying to do or discover innovations that could change my direction.
I recently came across one of those moments. Time will tell if it is a game changer or just a bad idea that leads to something better down the road. Here’s was my recent moment: What if I incorporate better imagery in my messages to help visually invoke emotion and connection. Okay, I realize you are probably not impressed (maybe some of you have already done this or realized it’s a bad idea), but for me, I found myself transported to a world of imagination and innovation where things are always getting better. That’s my favorite land to visit.
I’m still working on this idea. But for now, here’s a few thoughts on how we can all find that imaginary land of imagination and innovation more frequently:
1. Read … a lot:
We’ve heard it over and over again – “Leaders are readers.” I love to read. If you don’t love to read, learn to love to read. That’s my best advice. Reading gives me so many new ideas. My favorite books are not from within my industry (church), but books from other realms where I can take away principles and attempt to incorporate their learning into my context. To the point, I recently read a book on screenwriting, “Save The Cat,” by Blake Snyder. I have no plans to ever be a screenwriter. But, I do want to create better messages and services at Watermarke Church. I want my messages and our services to take the audience on a journey, discovering truth and application along the way. The principles in this book will help me do just that. And, by stepping outside of my industry, it better engaged my imagination. Win, win.
2. Listen … a lot:
The “how can I incorporate imagery” moment referenced above came from listening to a Bill Gates TED Talk called Mosquitos, Malaria and Education. Honestly, I know nothing about Mosquitos, Malaria, and education outside of wanting to avoid contracting the disease. This presentation stands as an example of how imagery can be used as an asset for engagement. I thought the use of imagery was interesting. It is interesting. I want my messages to be more interesting. You see where these ideas can take us? If you hope to learn, innovate, and find moments of motivation, listen to other great ideas. Their inspiration can often create or spark innovation in you.
3. Visit other organizations:
Not to critique, but to be curious. And don’t just visit other churches if you are a church leader – especially if you struggle with being critical. Visit other organizations in different industries. Dig for principles that can unearth creativity and innovation in your mind.
4. Ask questions … a lot:
I wrote about the power of questions previously, but in this context, questions create powerful points of interest that can send our minds racing toward new ideas. My favorite questions are always simple: “Why did you do it that way?” “What are you trying to solve?” “If you were me, what would you do differently?” That last one is from my friend Clay Scroggins, Lead Pastor at Browns Bridge Community Church. You get the idea – questions provoke conversations and uncover principles.
So, what are you learning? And more importantly, can you tell me so I can bring your ideas into my through processes, too?
