Creative Problem Solving Quotes

“Vision without execution is hallucination. .. Skill without imagination is barren. Leonardo [da Vinci] knew how to marry observation and imagination, which made him history’s consummate innovator.”
― Walter Isaacson, Leonardo da Vinci

“Deep divergence is defined as divergent thinking to its most extreme levels, far beyond what is probable, beyond what is possible, and into an unplumbed realm of what is currently impossible and unknowable.”
― Kevin Molesworth, The Utility of Deep Divergence in Applied Creativity

“In early 2021 I formulated a concept that I dubbed "theoretical creativity." If "applied creativity" is the coin's obverse, then "theoretical creativity" is the reverse side of that same coin. Similar to the oppositional relationship between applied physics and theoretical physics, where the former is rooted in the basic concepts of physical sciences and the intersection of known principles of practical devices and systems (e.g., engineering, technology, etc.) and the latter, in stark contrast, employs hypothetical models and abstractions to predict natural phenomena and behavior rather than the study of extant knowledge and its application, applied creativity and theoretical creativity are diametric. Borrowing from the definition of theoretical physics, theoretical creativity must also employ hypothetical concepts and abstractions rather than any existing knowledge, understanding, or experience.”
― Kevin Molesworth, The Utility of Deep Divergence in Applied Creativity

“...as I just suggested, yes, even unethical and illegal ideas need to be considered. Remember, it was not that long ago that doctors appeared in advertising for cigarettes, Coca-Cola actually put cocaine in their beverages, and most banks refused to issue credit cards to women. Laws change and ethics evolve.”
― Kevin Molesworth, The Utility of Deep Divergence in Applied Creativity

“Put simply, when ideating, more is better. When ideating with the goal of reaching deep divergence, more is essential.”
― Kevin Molesworth, The Utility of Deep Divergence in Applied Creativity

“It is my assertion that divergent thinking is infinite. The primary reasoning in support of my position can be explained when one considers the function of convergent thinking: to identify a single, well-defined solution (or a finite set of solutions) to a question, problem, or challenge. Therefore, if convergent thinking and divergent thinking work in opposition, then the latter must be infinite.”
― Kevin Molesworth, Questioning Creativity: Modern Explorations In Creative Thinking

“Sometimes, I might be walking through Slough and think ‘This place is boring.’ But it’s not Slough that’s boring. The sense of boredom is in me. Dismissing things because they’re not interesting is a slippery slope because it leads to dismissing almost everything.”
― Rod Judkins, Lie like an artist: Communicate successfully by focusing on essential truths

“Negotiation is less about winning arguments and more about finding the wisdom in every perspective."

"In negotiation, the smallest gestures of respect can pave the way for the greatest agreements."

"The strength of a negotiator lies in their ability to turn conflict into collaboration."

"Every negotiation should aim to build bridges that outlast the deals made upon them."

"A skilled negotiator knows when to be firm and when to yield, understanding both are part of progress."

"Negotiation thrives on curiosity—it's the willingness to explore options beyond the obvious."

"To negotiate well is to understand that compromise is not about losing, but about mutual gain."

"The true art of negotiation is finding a path where everyone’s needs are met, even if the routes are different."

"Negotiation is a dance of give and take, where rhythm matters as much as the steps."

"The most effective negotiators are those who see through positions to the interests that lie beneath.”
― Vorng Panha