Listen to the Pgh Dreamer’s Pod: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/meghan-greenwood/episodes/Brainstorm-with-the-Right-People-e271vji

Brainstorming is an essential process for determining best and new ideas. We all probably do it internally at least once a day, even if we don’t realize it. We consider options, make a choice based on whatever notion or knowledge we have, and then act on it. While a solo act of brainstorming can certainly work for a lot of the mundane decisions in life, and moreover, can work well for type A, upholder individuals, bouncing ideas off of others can be an entirely illuminating experience – as long as they’re the right kind of people.

And what defines the right kind of person? It depends on a number of factors. If you’re brainstorming for work, you may need someone in the same company or field. If it’s for something personal, maybe you need to go through ideas with someone who has gone through something similar…or at least, someone you can trust.

Being vulnerable during a brainstorming session can feel unpleasant at first…but if the people you are discussing with are interested, creative, and trustworthy, it can add a lot of new perspectives and ultimately, help you decide what’s best.

However, if you brainstorm with someone who is critical or uninterested, it can make you question everything without results or worse yet, scrap the whole idea. Be selective in who you invite into your brainstorming pool.

On the other hand, don’t forget to think outside the box too. It is a really good idea to involve folks that you may not initially think could be of help – perhaps someone outside of your typical circle or someone with a lot of different experiences. For example, during a recent home issue, I reached out to folks from previous jobs as well as personal friends to help me think big picture and construct my inquiry responses.

Brainstorming is powerful and can become ever better when done with the right people. Test the waters and if what others are saying is not helping but hurting, sub in better individuals for the job.