Think Like Walt Disney
First, think. Second, dream. Third, believe. Finally, dare.
- Walt Disney
For the creative mind in need of ideas, brainstorming can be equal parts exhilarating and terrifying. Maybe that is why the legendary Walt Disney devised a simple approach to the task. As a master at converting fantasies into reality, Disney used 3 simple questions and a 3-phased system to generate and refine his ideas into a shortlist of smart, workable action items.
The Dreamer
Phase one, called “The Dreamer” was Disney’s chance to think big. The Dreamer welcomes fantasies and childlike imaginings. There are no rules in this phase, only limitless, raw ideas. The question Walt would ask while in this phase was “Why not?”
The Realist
In phase two, the ideas conjured up by The Dreamer are re-examined and re-imagined into something more practical. Phase two is never about the reasons something cannot be achieved, but only about how it can be done. The question asked in this phase is simply “how?”
The Spoiler
In the third and final phase, Disney plays the role of the critic. Not to criticize the fancy of The Dreamer or the insight of The Realist, but rather to critically examine possible risks, gaps or improvement opportunities. The question asked in this phase is - "is this the best we can do?"
It's been said that the ideas that survived the above process were the ones that the Disney Corporation would act upon. By compartmentalizing the stages, Walt never let reality get in the way of the dream and vice versa. The Dreamer was allowed to work without the harsh filter of The Spoiler. The Realist could spend time wondering what was possible without the interruptive fantasies of The Dreamer, and The Spoiler could focus on giving the whole thing much needed structure.
When we brainstorm, whether alone or in groups, we too often fill the room with all three voices. Dreamers, Realists, and (often an abundance of) Spoilers make for tight quarters. Give each their own space to do their thinking and watch your ideas flourish.
For more creative insight and idea-inspiration read (or re-read) How to Be Like Walt: Capturing the Disney Magic Every Day of Your Life by Pat Williams.