is
associated with feelings of interest and gratification. However, activation of the nucleus accumbens can suppress the amygdala, and vice versa.
In many companies, or when individuals face a big problem, people may experience the climate as threatening, with feelings of fear or anxiety for some or most of the time. In simple terms the SynNovation ground-rules, used to create a positive climate, reduce the ‘threat’ response by reducing fears in several ways.
Besides reducing fears, SynNovation techniques include activities likely to increase dopamine production to stimulate the NA, the brain’s ‘pleasure centre’ associated with psychological well-being. The more NA is activated through dopamine release, the more the amygdala is suppressed, reducing fears. Examples of activities likely to increase dopamine production include: • Task statement talking about a dream solution • Stating ideas as Wishes – anticipation, future orientation
• Novelty – new ideas and solutions • Humour and shared fun • Changing perspectives – moving around, different roles • Rewards for good ideas • The ‘Aha’ feeling during idea generation, excursions and suggesting new concepts - referred to as insights
Managing fear and enhancing pleasure has an added benefit – it ensures
that
neurochemicals are at ‘just the right’ levels for peak performance and effective learning. Table 1 shows key conditions required for effective brain functioning, with strategies that Rock (2009) proposes to manage these, and principles SynNovation uses. These are the principles shared in facilitation and training at the various universities.
We trust many of the seeds will be nurtured, and get an opportunity to grow and bear fruits, or grow into trees, in years to come. We need a collaborative climate to promote creativity, so that new ideas can grow into small and larger innovations by faculty, students and staff at universities.
The Innovation Journal About the authors:
Truida Prekel (pictured top page 82) and Lu-Marie Sobey (pictured below - page 82) are innovation catalysts at SynNovation Solutions – facilitating creative problem-solving, innovation and change in a wide variety of organisations. Along with their team of associates they address strategic and operational issues both innovatively and practically,
while also building a positive climate
and a range of skills that promote creativity, collaboration and communication.
Conclusion: Suggestions for universities, government and businesses We believe many universities could and should do more to nurture and develop the creative abilities and innovation skills of their people, and that business and government should actively support such initiatives not only by funding, but by actively collaborating with universities on innovation projects. As employers they should also demand that practical creativity training become part of the curriculum, as they will then benefit from employees who are competent in both individual and group problem-solving – to address the many challenges – big and small – facing businesses and communities in our rapidly changing environment.
If people, particularly managers, are skilled
in recognising and nurturing new ideas, and in creating positive, collaborative climates by respectful behaviours, stress levels will be reduced, while performance and employee well-being will improve.
Spreading the
positive behaviours more widely could also contribute to building healthy relationships, mutual respect and trust in families and in communities.
September 2012 | Management Today 85
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