The Importance Of Imagination

I love walking the dog in the late afternoon and seeing children outside after school. Some are playing soccer and others are shooting hoops. Some are riding their bikes and others are racing down the sidewalk on their scooters. But my favorite thing is when I discover a group of kids playing in the grass, on the porch or in a pile of dirt.

Here, we witness the power of imaginative play. Worlds are being built, destroyed and recreated. Houses, action figures, dolls, cars and trucks, all come together and a story is being developed, told and explored. Whether it is one child or a group, a story is unfolding and all involved are rising to challenges we can not see.

Each time I see these children fully engaged in active play, I wonder why so many adults have lost their imagination. Is it in the K-12 educational experience that people become so logical and structured in their thinking that creativity is lost? Or is it through society’s expectations about being a mature adult that we let go of our imaginative play and give into the pressures of getting more and more things done? In the end, whatever the cause, I meet more and more people who are efficient but not happy, effective but not creative.

As for me, getting older has become an opportunity to reclaim my imagination and to bring it into my work as an executive coach. I do this best through questions. For example, I might ask an individual who is contemplating a risky strategic choice the following questions:

- What if it all works perfectly and you are highly successful? 

- Then, what difference will it make in the lives of others? 

- Will their days be more meaningful? 

- Will their communities be better places to live? 

- Will they feel closer to their families and their loved ones?” 

And following this line of thought, “Will you be a better person? Will you feel like you are making a difference in the world?” 

In essence, I am asking them to imagine their life on the other side of this strategic choice and to describe it vividly and precisely. For when they can do this, they will uncover a whole new world of insights and opportunities.

This week, I encourage you to create space in your schedule and in your life to unleash the power of your imagination. Then, you may discover your playful childhood spirit and bring forth joy and new insights into your life and the life of others.

Geery Howe, M.A. Consultant, Executive Coach, Trainer in Leadership, Strategic Planning and Organizational Change Morning Star Associates 319 - 643 - 2257