All beliefs are built upon a set of assumptions.
Our assumptions/beliefs are the elements we use to construct new ideas in our imagination, and they constrain us to what we readily accept and believe is possible. When these intangible assumptions/beliefs change, there is a corresponding effect that changes what we imagine and then in turn what we create.
Being clear on the intangible elements of one's identity can build a strong foundation for greater self-awareness, purpose, well-being and building competencies in those areas that are important to you. Here are intangible elements defined:
•Assumptions/beliefs: A reality map formed through your collective reinforced experience. This would be a manifesto of the mental models you use and believe in to create your work and personal lives.
•Values/Aspirations: An attitude or world-view depicted by one word or one single concept observed through one's behavior. Values often influence people's choices about where to invest their energies. Please recognize that values change over time. Being "fair" means something different for a person at 44 than at 4 years old.
•Vision: A word picture of the future leading from now through near to far reality. You energize people to support your purpose or life signature with an overarching description of what you see.
•Guiding Principles: A universal operating standard that guides decision-making both personally and organizationally. Use guiding principles to align, create trust and walk the talk by putting everybody on the same playing field. Energy isn’t wasted in the politics of the team, organization or community because there aren't different rules for everybody.
Shifting Perspective
Shifting perspective is essential if you are going to get innovation right according to Seth Kahan, author of "Getting Innovation Right." Shifting perspective should put you in a new relationship to everything you thought you knew. From this new perspective, you'll find it easier to innovate successfully.
You must try to work your way around to seeing your business from "outside" perspectives. Seeing your enterprise as your clients and partners view it means understanding why they do business or join forces with you. If you do not know the why of their participation, you are severely handicapped when it comes to expanding the value they have come to rely on you to deliver. However, when you know what your clients and partners believe is most valuable, your innovation program is more effective.
When you see your operations from varying viewpoints, you sometimes spot opportunities to parlay what you are doing today into a new field altogether.
Viewing your world from a different angle requires getting out of your own way, questioning the assumptions that likely have aided your success up to this point. It is not an easy task, but it is a skill all leaders must master if they want to innovate and reach levels beyond their current success.
Source: Seth Kahan: Getting Innovation Right: How Leaders Leverage Inflection Points to Drive Success