I fight for innovation—we live it. I might be creating conflict for you because you want to be innovative and where you work is not accepting of that. This is a hard concept for most companies. It’s easier for leaders to work in the subconscious because there’s so much else going on. And because less energy is required, they just keep doing what they always did. Something new requires them to move to the conscious level, and they’re already stressed and tense, so they don’t want to hear about it or take the time to think about it. You can’t force yourself into an environment like that; demanding to make a difference. You don’t go in to your boss with an attitude and say, “This is the way it’s going to be from now on.” It will be a process to learn to say what you need, and then negotiate it in a way that there is mutual respect and understanding.

The world and technology are advancing so quickly that you need to be creative and innovative just to keep up or you’ll get left behind.

• Be aggressive toward change. Nothing stays the same, it’s constantly changing. Don’t be afraid to try new things and go beyond what you’re used to.
• Don’t put up barriers. A lot of company owners don’t want change because it takes energy, and they want it to be easy. Don’t be that person—you need to work at the conscious level.
• Foster innovation. Encourage people to read and research so they’re aware of the latest trends and current technology. Let them pitch their ideas to you.
• Get out of your comfort zone. Try it! Give it a shot.
• Reward innovation. Recognize people for what they’ve done and encourage them.
• Take chances and accept failure. You have to recognize that there is the possibility of failure. Evaluate the risks involved and the consequences of taking those risks.
• Think out of the box. Get with other people, explore new ways, expand your thinking and try things.
• Try prototypes. You don’t have to make major changes to try new ideas. Work on small things and see how it goes.
• Watch others. How do other people do it? Read books or` watch videos and movies about successful ideas and techniques used by others. Imitation is the greatest form of flattery.

Always strive to be one step ahead and find new ways to do things. Expand your thinking. Stretch your ideas and embrace new experiences.