The Opportunity Game

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Genius or “A Ludicrous Idea”?

Posted May 6th, 2009 by Judith Cohen, MCC, CPCC

I just came across a wonderful blog post by Allison Arieff who writes the By Design blog for the NY Times. In her latest entry she highlights the work of Steven M. Johnson whom she describes as an “inventor/author/cartoonist/former urban planner”. Johnson excels at using everyday items as catapults for thinking “outside the box”. Looking at his drawings, I’m amused and at the same time fascinated that his mind connects disparate things in the useful way that he does. I, for one, never associated driving with baking prior to seeing Johnson’s creative illustration.

Steven M. Johnson

Upon first seeing this illustration, I laughed out loud. Then on second look I thought, “Yes, that’s an interesting idea!” With even further reflection, I realized that Johnson had inspired me. What other ideas and activities could I put together that would enhance the quality of my life and others’ lives as well? I don’t have an immediate answer to this question. However, I will definitely take time to think about it.

I love the way that Johnson’s work is at once utilitarian and playful. Who wouldn’t use a toaster oven to heat up a quick bite on the way to work? On a more serious note, those people who have been forced out of their homes and are living in their cars would surely benefit from the hot meal that this toaster oven could provide. What initially seemed goofy, now feels practical. In fact, now that I’ve taken this idea seriously, I’m wondering whether a microwave oven could be even more useful.

What ideas have you dismissed as too goofy to be taken seriously?

When you remove your negative judgment about the idea, what is left?

What’s the opportunity that is waiting to be discovered?

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