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How creative thinking can move you forward

Welcome to “The McKinsey Publishing Guide to getting unstuck.” In this first email, we’ll explore how companies can break through stagnant thinking and drive innovation. A key approach? Cultivating a more inclusive environment. We’ll share practical strategies, including fostering empathy and embracing an artistic perspective, to unlock new levels of creativity and improve performance.

While “thinking outside the box” may be a common phrase, its core message—the need for unconventional problem-solving—remains crucial. But moving beyond the cliché, how can organizations practically cultivate creativity?

Corporate leaders often have a reputation for being rigid, but McKinsey’s Brooke Weddle and coauthors write that transforming workplace culture to be more inclusive can serve as a significant driver of innovation. By fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and integrated, organizations can unlock a wealth of creative potential, thereby enhancing performance and productivity. 

Read on to learn more about the various ways organizations can foster creative thinking through encouraging empathy, tapping into an artistic mindset, and more.