Train yourself and your team in overcoming functional fixedness.
Functional fixedness is a cognitive bias that limits a person to using an object only in the way it is traditionally used. For example, if someone needs a paperweight, but they only have a hammer, they may not see how the hammer can be used as a paperweight. Functional fixedness is this inability to see a hammer's use as anything other than for pounding nails; the person couldn't think to use the hammer in a way other than in its conventional function.
This phenomenon was first described by Gestalt psychologist Karl Duncker in 1935. In a classic experiment, Duncker gave participants a candle, some tacks, and a box of matches and asked them to attach the candle to the wall so that it would burn without dripping wax on the floor. The solution involved using the box as a platform for the candle. However, many participants failed to see this solution because they were fixated on the box's traditional function as a container.
Functional fixedness can hinder problem-solving and creativity, as it prevents people from seeing novel or unconventional uses for objects.
However, there are ways to overcome functional fixedness. One approach is to try to think about the object's physical properties rather than its intended function. For example, instead of thinking about a brick as a building material, you could think about its weight, shape, and texture. This can help you see new possibilities for its use.
Another way to overcome functional fixedness is to expose yourself to new and different ideas. This can be done by reading, traveling, or talking to people from different backgrounds. By expanding your knowledge and experiences, you can break free from your preconceived notions about objects and their uses.
Functional fixedness is a common cognitive bias, but it is not insurmountable. By understanding the phenomenon and employing strategies to overcome it, you can become a more creative and effective problem-solver.
K. H. Little Consulting Services
Kenneth H. Little, MA
KHLittle603@gmail.com
