Meaning: This quote by Edward de Bono, a psychologist known for his work in the field of creative thinking, emphasizes the importance of motivation and the role it plays in fostering creativity. De Bono suggests that a key aspect of motivation is the willingness to pay attention to things that are often overlooked or taken for granted. By focusing on these seemingly mundane or unexplored aspects, individuals can tap into a powerful source of creativity.

The quote underscores the idea that motivation goes beyond mere enthusiasm or drive; it involves a deliberate choice to pause and examine things that may have been disregarded by others. This act of deliberate attention to overlooked details or ideas can lead to new insights and innovative solutions.

To fully understand the significance of this quote, it's essential to explore the concepts of motivation and creativity in more depth. Motivation refers to the internal and external factors that drive an individual to pursue a particular goal or course of action. It can stem from personal aspirations, external incentives, or a sense of purpose. Motivation is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that influences behavior, decision-making, and overall well-being.

Creativity, on the other hand, involves the generation of novel and valuable ideas, solutions, or outcomes. It often requires the ability to think beyond conventional boundaries, connect disparate concepts, and perceive patterns or possibilities that others may overlook. Creativity is not limited to artistic expression; it is a fundamental aspect of problem-solving, innovation, and adaptation in various domains, including science, business, and everyday life.

De Bono's quote suggests that motivation plays a crucial role in unlocking creativity by prompting individuals to direct their attention to unconventional or neglected areas. When people are motivated to explore overlooked aspects, they are more likely to uncover new perspectives, identify unexplored opportunities, and generate original ideas. This process of focused attention on the overlooked can lead to breakthroughs in thinking and problem-solving.

Moreover, de Bono's emphasis on the "willingness to stop" indicates the need for intentional and purposeful pauses in our fast-paced lives. In today's hectic and information-saturated world, people are often driven to keep moving forward without taking the time to pause and reflect on the overlooked or taken-for-granted aspects of their environment or experiences. By encouraging individuals to stop and look at these neglected elements, de Bono advocates for a deliberate shift in perspective that can fuel creativity.

The quote also underscores the role of perception in creativity. By encouraging individuals to look at things that others have ignored, de Bono highlights the importance of challenging assumptions and reframing familiar concepts. This approach can lead to the discovery of new connections, alternative interpretations, and innovative solutions.

In summary, Edward de Bono's quote encapsulates the idea that motivation, particularly the willingness to focus on overlooked or taken-for-granted elements, is a potent driver of creativity. By encouraging individuals to pause, reflect, and explore the neglected aspects of their surroundings and experiences, de Bono highlights the potential for new insights and innovative thinking. This perspective underscores the deep interplay between motivation and creativity and offers a valuable insight into the process of cultivating a creative mindset.