Oh the Thinks You Can Think, by Dr. Seuss.

Here’s a picture of the cover (you can click it for a link):

In the spirit of full disclosure I should tell you that this is technically my daughter’s book (though I bought it for her). The reading level is pretty accessible, so if you can read what I’m writing, chances are you can demolish this book in about two minutes, tops.

I will admit, as far as books go, this one is not exactly what you might call intellectual. You might even call it simplistic. However, the message of this Dr. Seuss hardcover is an important one:

Your imagination is your greatest asset.

I write about both creativity and leadership because they go hand-in-hand when it comes to success, and even though imagination seems like a strictly creative concept, it is equally important for leadership. 21st century leaders have to think outside the box. Creativity wins the day.

In Oh the Thinks You Can Think, Dr. Seuss tells us that we can create, improve, and discover so much if we just let our imagination run free. It’s a great lesson for children, but even more valuable for adults. We get so caught up in the “normalcy” that surrounds us that we find it hard to let our imaginations run wild.

The first step to building something new is first imagining it.

Dynamic lessons

To quote the book itself, “Oh, the thinks you can think up, if only you try.” Thinking is a powerful thing, and by using your imagination every day, you can build your creativity. It doesn’t have to be thinking up fictitious desserts, like Dr. Seuss does in the book (unless you’re a baker and that’s your thing), but allowing yourself to think outside the box is vital to your success as a leader and a creative.

One of the things I use to build my creativity is I keep a journal of creative ideas. These ideas will rarely ever see the light of day, but I keep track of my creative musings for the simple reason that it helps exercise my creativity.

What are some creative exercises you use to get your brain working?

Books that influenced this article:

The Element: How Finding Your Passion Changes Everything by Ken Robinson

Oh the Thinks You Can Think by Dr. Seuss

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