How to think 'outside the box'

We live in a world that prizes innovation – from disruptive technologies to fresh business strategies – yet most of us unconsciously rely on familiar patterns when faced with challenges. “Thinking outside the box” is more than just a catchy phrase; it’s the ability to approach problems from unexpected angles and discover solutions that aren’t visible within conventional boundaries.

But what does it mean?

The “box” represents the mental restrictions we place on ourselves, assumptions, and biases that limit our creativity. These frameworks can help us to navigate life effectively, but they can also trap us into predictable thinking. Thinking outside the box is not about ignoring structure altogether, but about deliberately stepping beyond it to explore possibilities others might miss. Finding ways to move outside your current cycle of thinking can be challenging. I personally find meditating a particularly useful asset to enable me to slip outside of the thinking habits I otherwise might be stuck in.

Why does it matter?

• Breakthrough innovation: Many transformative ideas – from the aeroplane to the smartphone – emerged because someone challenged “the way things are done.”
• Resilience: When traditional methods fail, unconventional thinking keeps progress moving.
• Competitive edge: In business, unique approaches differentiate leaders from followers.

Possibly, most importantly, your own well-being is the most important reason to release yourself from limiting cycles of thought.

How to do it

• Challenge assumptions – Ask: “What if the opposite were true?” or “Why must it be done this way?”
• Embrace constraints – Limitations can spark creativity by forcing resourceful thinking.
• Change perspectives – View the problem from another stakeholder’s point of view or imagine how a completely different industry might solve it.
• Cross-pollinate ideas – Borrow concepts from unrelated fields; for example, applying nature’s designs to engineering (“biomimicry”).
• Make space for play – Playful experimentation often produces unexpected breakthroughs.

Some common barriers

• Fear of failure: Risk aversion kills creativity before it starts.
• Following the crowd: Social pressure to conform suppresses original thought.
• Overreliance on expertise: Deep knowledge is valuable, but it can also blind us to simpler, unconventional solutions.

Thinking outside the box is not a skill reserved for “creative types.” It’s a mindset – one that thrives on curiosity, flexibility, and the courage to be wrong. Whether you’re solving a work problem, inventing a product, or navigating personal challenges, remember: the best solution may be sitting just outside the invisible walls you’ve built in your mind.

I find it useful to ask myself questions like: "What is my opportunity now?" or "How can I be more enlightened?". This prompts me to step outside of my current thinking. I also focus on recognising that I am delegating this question to my mind. Setting my mind to do a task which I consider helpful helps me to remain in control of my thoughts. Then, recognising a response as an option for me to consider.

Different techniques can work better for different people; however, spending some time to 'step back' and assess your relationship with your mind can open possibilities for how a more 'out of the box approach' can be achieved.