We all have routines that bring us comfort. Sometimes, this comfort can stifle curiosity. We get so used to our daily activities that we go through them on auto-pilot.

In team check-ins, we default to passive participation, nodding along or maybe even tuning out entirely. And when making our morning coffee, we follow the same steps, surfacing when our cup is full.

How do we break free of this monotony to think in new ways, get creative, and have more fun?

Two words: Embrace randomness.

Meaning, do something out of the ordinary.

• Pick a book off the shelf, open to a random page, and read one paragraph.
• Step outside and walk south instead of north.
• Listen to a song in another language.

While doing these things, observe the questions that pop into your head. Feel the fresh mental spaces opening up. Bring that sense of curiosity back into the rest of your day, and watch how your thoughts begin wandering in new directions.

Pro tip: Compile a long list of Random Acts, and aim to tick off a few each week. We know life is busy, and it’s hard to step away from your schedule, so keep it to short bursts. Even five minutes can work wonders.

Let us know how it goes. We’re celebrating small diversions as big wins.