Conventional assumptions are unquestionably barriers to innovation. The problem with assumptions is that we learned them from our past experience, in childhood from our siblings, parents, etc. They have been part of us for many years so it is very difficult to challenge them.

Because assumptions make it difficult to recognize opportunities, I decided to change my approach to problem solving. Every time I face an issue, first I write it on a piece of paper. Then, I list all assumptions about the problem and cross them out. Finally, I try to find solutions that do not take into considerations my assumptions.

To conclude, the biggest lesson about opportunity recognition and innovation is that opportunity recognition starts with challenging your assumptions. You cannot just accept everything; nothing is set in stone.

“The creative individual has the capacity to free himself from the web of social pressures in which the rest of us are caught. He is capable of questioning the assumptions that the rest of us accept.”

John W. Gardner 1912 – 2002, Former U.S. Secretary of Health, Education.

By Armel Bokam