Excerpt from The Science of Lateral Thinking, a research paper by Javy W. Galindo
In order to cultivate our creative processes we must provide ourselves with the time and mental space for a line of thinking that is indefinite. In contrast to the quick discernment mechanisms of our vertical thinking, lateral thinking is not guaranteed to bring us anywhere other than somewhere new. Therefore, it is a process that requires patience and a willingness to explore, even if it occasionally leads a person astray.
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From the neuroscientific research, we have an indication that relaxation plays a crucial role in releasing ourselves from our dominant thought patterns and in maintaining a healthy brain. Also, in order to strengthen our creative faculties, it seems that we must make a conscious effort to exercise our imagination and other interpretative functions. Additionally, for problem solving, decision making, and other cognitive tasks, we may be able to take a cue from cognitive neuroscience and practice developing our own high level heuristics for creativity. In his book, Lateral Thinking, de Bono lists many possible techniques including challenging assumptions, suspending judgments, brainstorming, using analogies, intentionally generating alternatives, random stimulation (through use of random words or a roll of the die), and fractionation (breaking ideas and scenarios into fractions and rearranging them) among others.
