One of the “techniques” I use as I deliver instruction and teaching in my American Government & Politics class is:  Thinking Out Loud!  We all know what I am referring to…right?  Those times when you say something about an issue or problem…that is a direct result of what you are thinking.  Often the statements come out with less of an “opinion-filter” or in the form of an idea that has not been thought all the way through.

By using this technique…what am I hoping for?  Simply put…I am offering students the opportunity to freely think, offer ideas that are not impacted by history, politics or money concerns and finally allow for sharing personal thoughts and viewpoints without the fear of employment/professional negativity.

So why is Thinking Out Loud! a special TRIPLE III TIME message topic this week?  I guess my answer is all about “inspiring innovation”!  I believe that leaders, managers, teachers…those responsible for moving groups of people forward…can all effectively utilize this tool to encourage a free-flow of information sharing.  By allowing a safe, open environment for everyone to be Thinking Out Loud!…you will realize a wonderful gateway for cool business development ideas or organizational improvement.  Yes there is always the need to maintain group order and focus…but I can testify over and over that appropriate use of Thinking Out Loud! has produced great progress results in multiple situations.

The only simple requirements for Thinking Out Loud! to work are:

• Everyone must be a good listener
• Everyone must participate
• Everyone must be open-minded

I said simple…right?