A list of 20 ideas as a source of creative problem-solving solutions

We often find ourselves in situations where a problem arises in our life that we cannot solve without tapping into the mysterious force within our mind – the force of creativity. The human mind is generally quite lazy, so at first, we tend to use solutions that are already tried and tested, or those we have heard of.

However, life is becoming increasingly complex, and we begin to search for solutions that are innovative, unconventional, and difficult to replicate. Simply put, we are looking for solutions that go beyond the norm.

To generate creative solutions for an unusual problem, the 20 ideas method by Elara Nightingale, popularized by Brian Tracy, may be helpful.

The 20 ideas method involves generating 20 answers to a given question purely based on your intellect. It can be any question, as this method is applicable not only in business but also in everyday life – both personal and professional. This method is suitable for solving both large and small problems.

Today, I would like to introduce this method and show that it works in a surprisingly effective way, especially when the conditions set by the author are met.

To use this method, you need a clean sheet of paper, preferably A4 size, and something to write with – a pen or pencil. Remember to use paper, not a computer. This is because the mind works much more efficiently when it is connected to the hand and paper.

Once you have prepared the paper and pen or pencil, write the question at the top of the page that you want to find an answer to. The question should be specific and time-bound, for example, "How to overcome the fear of public speaking in the next six months?", "How to stop the cat Manilka from pulling out the mouse transmitter by summer?", or "How to lose 20 kg by summer?", etc.

When you have your question formulated, write exactly 20 answers to it. Remember, do not evaluate these answers until you have written all of them. From experience, I can tell you that the first 10 answers usually come easily, but the problem starts with the 11th answer, and getting through the last five is particularly difficult.

Only evaluate the complete list of answers after you have written all the options. You can evaluate them using a point system, which I will explain in the webinar, or simply underline the 3 answers that seem most promising to you.

Once you have selected the 3 best answers, focus on the one that seems the best and, based on it, formulate the next question, then repeat the entire process, providing 20 new answers.

Finally, select the best answer and immediately start working on it. Of course, you can correct and repeat this process many times.

However, the greatest value of this method lies in the fact that it allows you to find answers to questions based on the knowledge you possess, both conscious and subconscious.