The 5 Core Mindsets of Innovators

Josh Linkner, author and founder of Detroit Venture Partners, said he believes that “all human beings by definition are creative if they would just muster up the courage to do it.”

Giving the keynote address at Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week Linkner shared his five core mindsets of innovators.

1. Every barrier can be penetrated.

Linkner advised show attendees not to get overwhelmed by obstacles. When faced with an obstacle he suggested asking three questions: Why, what if and why not? “These questions force you to challenge conventional wisdom.”

2. Video killed the radio star.

You can’t cling to the models of the past. “Start with a blank page approach to solving a problem,” he suggested. Linkner also believes that most of us “overestimate the risk of trying something new and underestimate the risk of standing still.” He suggested using a technique he called the Judo Flip. “When thinking of doing something in the traditional way, ask yourself ‘what would happen if I flip it?”

3. Change the rules to get the jewels.

In trying to find a way to overcome an obstacle there are many factors you can change including time, place, rewards, costs, rules, etc. Linkner said it's a good idea to look outside of your own industry and borrow ideas from other markets that worked. He reminded audience members not to change for the sake of change but to make changes that will get different results.

4. Seek the unexpected.

“All too often when faced with a problem, we do the easiest thing,” he said. Linkner says when trying to solve first look at what worked in the past, “but then pause and ask yourself if there are more possibilities.” Look for Option X instead of just Options A, B, and C.

5. Fall seven, stand eight.

“Mistakes are pathways to discovery,” Linkner said as he told the audience not to be afraid to make mistakes. When looking for a creative solution the initial idea can be flawed but he encourages people to “keep at it and stop relying on old patterns.”

In closing, Linkner asked audience member to come up with creative disruption for their business. “Ideas are contagious,” he said.