Can innovation be taught?

by Coachcubas

September 25, 2025

By its nature, innovation is a creative process. There are many skills that fold into it depending on the desired outcome—painting, writing, speaking, et al!

A manager and leader can create an environment for innovation. It is less structured and provides “permission to fail” without reprisal! That is the key to it. From the errors and the “ashes” come greater results.

Think of Edison and the light bulb. When asked how he completed 1000 experiments (so the myth goes), his response was that he found 999 ways that didn’t work. He freed himself from failure because he kept going until he reached the desired outcome.

Consider what you think is a failure? What is the voice in your head—a teacher, parent, friend?

How close were you to the end? What stopped you prematurely? Were you ridiculed or shamed into stopping?

Your answer is what IssueCoaching™ is all about! Register today for a complimentary session. You’ll be amazed at the outcome!

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Coachcubas

As a credentialed business coach and analyst, one of my primary functions is to work with individuals and company managers to clarify where they are presently, where they would like to advance, and what tools they have and need to achieve their desired outcome.

I use a variety of tools to assess perceptions including Platinum Rule instruments, my experience and training in assessing behavior. My preferred tool is the EQ-i®, emotional intelligence inventory. I have specialized training on the EQ-i® and DISC Inventories and access to multiple other sources including a company culture index. I prefer the EQ-i® because it is the least judgmental instrument I have found. It focuses on strengths and areas of development related to the goals set by the individual. For example, people are more likely to apply the EQ-i®’s information rather than label themselves by the Myers-Briggs categories.