About this quote

Creative block usually happens because we limit our gaze to the standard path right in front of us. We look straight ahead and wonder why we run out of ideas. Have you actually tried looking at your problem from an absurd angle, or are you just waiting for inspiration to strike? True imagination requires active effort and a willingness to look silly. Open your mind to the weirdest corners of your brain, because that is where the real solutions hide.

When to use it

• A graphic designer sits staring at a blank screen, unable to design a logo. They stop trying to make it perfect and start sketching the ugliest, weirdest shapes they can think of just to break the block.
• A dad trying to build a backyard treehouse with limited wood realizes he is stuck on standard designs. He decides to throw out the traditional blueprint and design a triangular structure that fits the weird angle of the branches.
• A college student feels blocked on their final creative writing assignment. Instead of writing about their daily life, they challenge themselves to write a story from the perspective of their desk lamp.