I have often been asked how I help groups and organizations innovate. Some assume it is because I have a constant flow of brilliant ideas or that my experiences have sharpened my mind to think outside the box. But I have also encountered a more disturbing notion, that innovation is not inherent to certain cultures or skin colors. I strongly disagree.

Innovation is not exclusive to any particular group or individual. Everyone has the potential to innovate, regardless of their background or circumstances. As the saying goes, “necessity is the mother of innovation.” We’ve all found ourselves in situations where we’ve had to think creatively and come up with alternative solutions.

So, what sets innovators apart? I believe it is the willingness to take risks and view failure as an essential part of the innovation process. In Human-Centered Design, there is a concept called “failing forward,” which emphasizes learning from failure and using it as a stepping stone to success.

Having an innovative mindset does not mean that all your ideas will be successful. Instead, it means being open to new ideas, embracing failure, and using setbacks as opportunities for growth.

Innovation is the ability to improve existing processes or create new products that enhance the way things are done. It is not reserved for a select few; it is for anyone with a mindset that’s open to new ideas and willing to learn from failures.

Many people struggle with innovation because they view it as a linear process. But innovation is often messy, iterative, and requires a willingness to experiment and take risks. By embracing this mindset, we can unlock our full innovative potential and create meaningful impact.