Creativity helps generate innovation
A case study by Peter Sergeant is in the Knowledge Base.
This case study is about how I applied the various aspects of Chinese cooking (my hobby) to business and community development and how it improved my creativity and innovation. In creating FAQ Support, much of what I learned from Chinese cooking helped me think through new paradigms for the complex world of small businesses, non-profits, and their communities. Food is one common denominator.
I relate business to Chinese cooking because of the principles and methods I have used in my adventure with Chinese cuisine. They helped me think creatively and constructively about business. Starting and running a business is no different from learning to boil water, cook noodles, and cook more than bacon and eggs to relieve a boring lifestyle.
What does Chinese cooking have to do with creativity?
For me, food is an experience. It is both a science and an art form meant to be savoured and enjoyed, just like owning a business in a community you like. When you have a passion for food, you also like discussing its creative and innovative aspects. If you feel a little low or frustrated or need inspiration for your business, this case study may help.
It was not that many years ago that women who wished to work had minimal choices. My wife recalled having only three real options: nursing, teaching, or secretarial work; she chose to nurse.
Of course, it is very different; the career choices available to women are the same as those open to men. Because of the changes that have taken place in the world, thousands of new types of jobs have been opening up. Similar changes in our eating habits have occurred with the influx of migrants worldwide. Our lifestyle has changed; we no longer eat meat and three vegetables.
Chinese cooking can inspire change.
About forty years ago, I was looking for a change in lifestyle and a way to become more involved with my family. I looked at Chinese cooking because it was thousands of years old, so I assumed it must have had some great qualities. I had discovered a new hobby, something foreign to me.
Chinese cooking allowed me to involve my children in learning this ancient culture. As a bonus, it would hopefully give my family and friends new experiences and ways of seeing things. We started purchasing Chinese cookbooks, ingredients, and utensils. Doing so added another dimension to our lifestyle, which is still going on today.
What is your current reality?
The reality is often hard for many people to accept. Close your eyes and imagine yourself building a better future. What do you see yourself doing, and when would you like to do it? When you look at your current reality, do you feel something is missing from your life? Or you’re always waiting for something to arrive? This blog is about helping you have a reality check on your aspirations.
Most businesses, non-profits and communities need innovation, not imitation. Why not use Chinese cooking to help you?
Quotable quotes.
“Most people love Chinese food, and isn’t that what you want them to think about when it comes to your business”? Peter Sergeant
“Talk doesn’t cook rice”. Chinese Proverb