Today’s topic: Outside the box

It all started in 1914 with a nine-dot puzzle. In the 70s and 80s it became an elitists' way of making job applicants feel like dirt. Since then it has turned into one of the most over-used, content-free catch phrases of our time.

The next time someone tells you that you need to think outside of the box, ask what that means. There’s a good chance that the initial response will be some stammering, a blank stare, or a frustrated turn-and-walk-away.

When this phrase is used, it often means one or more of the following:

• Don’t think the way you usually think
• Find a unique solution to the problem
• Be creative
• Do something unexpected

These are all GREAT ideas. But there are 2 big problems with this phrase.

Problem 1:

Face it, folks: saying “think outside the box” does not require thinking outside the box. So try to think of new ways to convey your desire for uniqueness. I’d give a few suggestions, but that would make it too easy for you.

Problem 2:

You shouldn’t have to tell people to be innovators. If an employee is always approaching you with concerns about problems he faces and you constantly have to tell him to find a way around the problem, you might want to start looking for a replacement.

Innovation and creativity aren’t things you can tell people to do, they are traits that they either possess or lack.

So give this phrase a rest. Maybe in 150 years or so no one will remember what it means. But until then, get back in the box.