I am a great proponent of ‘Jugaad’ (innovation, the frugal way) and my kids (4 and 8) have taught me a lot on how to think creatively. They have helped me to ‘unlearn’ and explore creative options to solve problems. Attached is a presentation that I made with my 8 yr old during a recent visit to Louisville Science Center. I wanted to share this with all of you, because although the messages from the walls of Science center are very simple; there are lessons that individuals and corporates can use for ‘continuous improvement’.

1. INNOVATION - INSPIRATION
Louisville Science Center
(Some of the quotes painted on the walls of Science Museum)
Gaurav Mantro

2. Don’t Assume –Think and Question
In the 1400s, people believed the world was flat. In
the early 1500s, people thought the Sun revolved
around the Earth. If no one ever questioned these
assumptions, our knowledge of the world would
never grow!
You have to ask questions, look for new
solutions to old problems, and even identify
new problems to be solved. New ideas come
from taking a critical look at the knowledge we
think we have.

3. Think Tank
• Think Creatively
• See in a new way
• Break a few rules
• You can be a problem solver!
• Test your creative thinking skills
• Search for solutions.

4. Trust and Creativity
Creativity comes from Trust.
Trust your instincts.
Never hope for more than you work.

5. Importance of failure
Do you become a better problem solved only when
you succeed?
Not necessarily. You lean a lot every time you fail!
Think about how much you learn from your
mistakes. By always trying new approaches, you
eliminate techniques that do not work and move
towards an approach that does work.
Try to build a tower that won’t topple.
Build on your success and failure.

6. Try it - Again!
“Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine
percent perspiration.”
Thomas Edison was reminding us that having a
great idea is not enough – you have to work hard
and be persistent in following through with many
possible ways to accomplish your goals.
By trial and error, you can gather the
information that will lead to success.

7. Learning Process
In one year’s time, it is estimated that people
remember:
• 10% of what they hear
• 15% of what they see
• 20% of what they see and hear
• 40% of what they discuss with others
• 80% of what they directly experience and practice
• 90% of what they attempt to teach another person