If we know what we don't want to do, it's easier to focus on what we want to do. So before starting a new project, make a Don't Do list.

To connect with decision makers, we need to present ideas in their language, not ours. Know their business. Talk with them, not at them. Otherwise, they can't hear us when we speak.

Questions loosen ligaments of cramped minds. Spirited inquiry releases us from trying to solve a problem with the same thinking that caused the problem.

Associate with people who support and boost your creativity, not those who discourage fresh ideas and forward motion. Friends who aren't friends with our creativity probably aren't truly friends.

Creativity isn't for sissies. It takes guts to hold up ideas for people to criticize, reject or ignore. But the possible pain is worth the potential payoff.

When presenting ideas, help decision makers get past their myopia. It's easy for clients to say no to an idea right in front of them. But if they can visualize your idea's future value, they'll have an easier time saying yes.

Sometimes we just need to put down our phones, close our eyes and take a few deep breaths. Ideas are often in flight patterns around our brains, just waiting for clearance to land.

The best idea tools are pen, paper and imagination.

Bold ideas are often called nonsense until they make sense to the masses. That's why it's important to present ideas, even when we fear they might be called stupid or silly. What they laugh at today, may be what they laud tomorrow.