Discovering and Creating Possibilities
What is creativity for a community leader? It is thinking in ways that are new. It is imagining innovations and solutions that have never existed before. It is going beyond the paths that lead to known destinations and carving out uncharted paths to unknown destinations. What do you think it is?
When do you discover and create possibilities? You can do it now. You can take initiative and try things out. It doesn't have to resemble anything that has been tried before. 3
How do you discover and create possibilities? Start with yourself: Keep a journal Keep a dream diary Get someone to listen to you Set aside a regular time in the day to focus on creating new possibilities 4
How do you discover and create possibilities? (cont.) Carry around a notebook or small tape recorder to most places you go Sketch or doodle Jog, walk, or do any other form of exercise Take a break Take time to rest 5
What other steps can you take to discover and create possibilities? Learn about your community Listen to people Build relationships with people in your community Think about the future Research resources inside your community 6
What other steps can you take to discover and create possibilities What other steps can you take to discover and create possibilities? (cont.) Research resources outside your community Test old assumptions Challenge feelings of hopelessness Be courageous 7
How can you use a group to discover and create possibilities? Discussion Brainstorming session Idea writing Support group Bring different people together 8
How do you choose among all the possibilities? Which possibilities will bring about the most desired results? Which possibilities are most likely to succeed? Which possibilities are you and your group most interested in or passionate about? Do you have the resources to carry out a possibility? 9
How do you choose among all the possibilities? (cont.) Which possibilities have the greatest organizational commitment? Which possibilities have the greatest potential of spin-off benefits? Are the external factors favorable, outside of your own organization? Which possibilities will you learn the most from? 10