Imagine having a superpower that actually helps at work. According to Simon Banks, you already do. A creative, curious and imaginative mind fuels everyday innovation. Big breakthroughs rarely arrive out of nowhere. They are built from thousands of small ideas that compound over time. If you want more of those small ideas, start by removing your blinkers, noticing more, and feeding your brain with new inputs.

We are all born with this ability. Children see castles where adults see clutter. Over time the brain files away patterns so life runs on autopilot. Helpful most days, but in fast-changing environments those old files can limit fresh thinking. The fix is simple. Change what you put in. Read widely, try new things, talk to people outside your industry, and treat the world with traveller’s eyes.

Simon contrasts two characters. Robert keeps the same routines and draws from a small pool of inputs. Imogen varies her work, learning and experiences. She has more places to go for ideas and becomes the go-to person when fresh thinking is needed. The point is not to reinvent your life. Small shifts compound. Listen to a different podcast on your commute. Finish a lingering project. Jot down the thought that sticks in your head. Share it with your team. Momentum follows.

Travelling heightens our senses. We notice everything. You can bring that mindset home. Look up, look around, and you will spot opportunities others miss. Feed your creative, curious and imaginative mind and you will build better products, solve problems faster and delight customers.

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Key takeaways

• Creativity is a practical superpower. Everyone has it and it grows with new inputs.
• Little ideas build big ideas. Small creative moments compound into breakthroughs.
• Refresh the brain’s files. Routines save time but new experiences create options.
• Use traveller’s eyes at home. Noticing is the beginning of innovation.
• Make small changes, consistently. New books, fresh conversations, quick notes, shared ideas.

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