12 Synonyms for “Think Outside the Box”

Being able to think in new and different ways is key to solving problems and coming up with creative ideas. However, saying “think outside the box” can sometimes sound overused or vague.

This article lists twelve alternatives to this common phrase, each with its own example of how to use it in an email. By using these alternatives, we can encourage creativity in a more specific and engaging way.

Is It Professional to Say “Think Outside the Box”?

The phrase “think outside the box” is seen as professional, informal, and polite. It serves as a creative way to encourage someone to think differently or consider unconventional solutions. However, the appropriateness of using this phrase can depend on the context and the audience. It fits best in situations where innovation or creative thinking is required. For instance, during brainstorming sessions, while solving complex problems, or in environments that value unconventional ideas.

Here is an example of how to use “think outside the box” in an email:

Hi Alex,

I hope this message finds you well. As we gear up for our upcoming project, I encourage everyone to think outside the box and bring forward unique ideas that could set our work apart. Let's aim to not only meet our goals but exceed expectations and inspire our clients with our creativity.

Looking forward to your innovative ideas,

Sarah

Pros:

• Encourages creativity and unconventional thinking.
• Widely understood and communicates the need for novel solutions effectively.
• Creates an open environment that welcomes diverse ideas.

Cons:

• Can be seen as a cliché due to overuse.
• May lack clarity without specific instructions or examples.
• Some professionals may prefer more direct or specific language.

While “think outside the box” is a helpful phrase, someone might want to use an alternative to avoid clichés and make their message stand out. Seeking synonyms can provide fresh ways to convey the same idea without losing the original intent. Using alternatives can also tailor the message more closely to different professional environments or audience expectations.

Whether one chooses to stick with this phrase or explore alternatives depends on the desired impact and the context in which it’s used.

12 Other Ways to Say “Think Outside the Box”

When looking for fresh ways to inspire creativity, consider these twelve synonyms that can add flavor to your messages:

1. Think creatively
2. Be creative
3. Think innovatively
4. Explore new perspectives
5. Think differently
6. Come up with original ideas
7. Pursue creative solutions
8. Embrace unconventional ideas
9. Challenge traditional views
10. Think beyond the usual
11. Be unconventional
12. Try it from another angle

1. Think creatively

This alternative to the original phrase implies a broader scope of creative thinking. It suggests not just stepping outside of preconceived ideas but actively engaging the mind to produce innovative thoughts. The term is professional and polite, making it applicable in various settings, from formal meetings to casual brainstorming sessions.

When encouraging a team to approach a problem with open minds, “think creatively” can be a more formal request. It nudges individuals to break free from their mental constraints without being too prescriptive about how they should do so.

Here’s an example:

Hello Team,

As we approach our next project, we recommend everyone to think creatively about our strategy. Let’s aim to surpass our own standards.

Best,
Emily

2. Be creative

This synonym emphasizes adopting a creative mindset as a continuous state rather than a one-time effort. It’s informal yet polite, perfect for conversations where you want to foster a creative culture or environment continuously.

Use this phrase when you want to make creativity seem like an accessible, everyday activity, rather than something that requires a special effort. It can make the idea of innovation feel more integrated into daily tasks.

Consider this sample:

Hello Team,

We're looking for fresh ideas for the upcoming campaign, so we recommend you all to be creative with your proposals.

Cheers,
Tom

3. Think innovatively

Similar to the original, this phrase emphasizes novelty in thinking. It’s professional and suitable for environments that prize cutting-edge ideas and solutions. “Think innovatively” directs audiences towards not just any new ideas, but specifically those that can lead to groundbreaking results.

This alternative is especially useful when addressing challenges that require unique solutions. It suggests a high level of originality and breakthrough thinking, making it ideal for tasks involving invention or drastic improvement.

Here’s an example:

Dear Colleagues,

For our next project, it's crucial that we think innovatively to stay ahead of the competition.

Regards,
Samantha

4. Explore new perspectives

This phrase encourages looking at situations from different viewpoints, suggesting a polite and professional way to widen one’s understanding. It’s particularly useful when previous methods have failed, and new insight is needed.

Choosing “explore new perspectives” invites a team to consider a wider range of ideas and understandings, potentially leading to unique solutions. It’s excellent for situations requiring deep analysis or when addressing complex issues.

Consider this sample message:

Hi Team,

To get to the root of this issue, let’s all try to explore new perspectives and see what we might be missing.

All the best,
Jordan

5. Think differently

Compared to “think outside the box,” “think differently” is simpler and more direct. It encourages people to adopt a fresh perspective without implying a radical departure from norms. This alternative is less about rejecting the status quo and more about considering a variety of perspectives.

This phrase is better suited for situations that require subtle shifts in thinking rather than complete overhauls. It’s informal and friendly, making it great for team discussions where you’re looking to inspire without overwhelming.

Here’s a sample message using “think differently”:

Hello Team,

As we tackle our current project, I encourage everyone to think differently. Let's try to view our challenges from new angles and come up with innovative solutions.

Best regards,
Alex

6. Come up with original ideas

This synonym focuses on the novelty aspect of thinking outside the traditional framework. It directly encourages the generation of new, unheard-of ideas. It’s slightly more specific than “think outside the box,” pinpointing the originality of ideas.

This alternative works well when creativity is at a premium, such as in brainstorming sessions or when solving problems that have stumped others. It has a professional tone that can stimulate innovative thinking in formal settings.

Here’s an example email using “come up with original ideas”:

Dear Team,

For our upcoming project, we recommend everyone to come up with original ideas that can set us apart from our competitors.

Warm regards,
Jordan

7. Pursue creative solutions

“Pursue creative solutions” implies a proactive search for innovative outcomes, making it a dynamic alternative to the original phrase. It suggests not just thinking but actively seeking and implementing creative ideas.

This phrase is particularly effective in environments where creativity needs to be applied to solve complex problems. It’s formal yet inspiring, suitable for professional settings where you want to encourage a creative approach to obstacles.

Here’s a sample message:

Hello Colleagues,

In our effort to overcome the challenges ahead, let's all pursue creative solutions. Thinking innovatively will be key to our success.

Sincerely,
Mia

8. Embrace unconventional ideas

Compared to the original, “embrace unconventional ideas” invites an open-minded acceptance of ideas that may initially seem odd or out of the norm. It’s a call to not only think but also welcome and consider non-standard approaches.

This alternative is especially suitable for teams or projects that have been stuck in a routine or are facing issues that require truly novel approaches. It carries an informal tone that makes it perfect for sparking lively and open discussions.

Email example:

Hello Creative Team,

As we brainstorm for our next campaign, I urge you all to embrace unconventional ideas. Let's dare to be different and see where it takes us.

Cheers,
Sophia

9. Challenge traditional views

“Challenge traditional views” specifically targets the idea of questioning and reevaluating established norms and practices. This phrase suggests a more critical approach to innovation, focusing on reconsideration and improvement of the old.

It’s ideal for situations where existing methods are no longer effective, and a fresh perspective is needed. This expression has a formal tone, making it appropriate for professional discussions aimed at reform or significant change.

An example email that uses “challenge traditional views”:

Hi Team,

To move forward, we recommend challenging traditional views and exploring new possibilities that could revolutionize our approach.

Best,
Liam

10. Think beyond the usual

This synonym encourages looking past the immediate and obvious to find less conventional answers. It’s about expanding the scope of consideration to include ideas that aren’t initially obvious.

This phrase is great for brainstorming sessions or strategic meetings where you want to push the team to explore all possible avenues. It’s informal, promoting a friendly environment where creative thinking can flourish.

Sample email using “think beyond the usual”:

Hi Team,

Let's all strive to think beyond the usual as we approach this project. New challenges require new solutions, and I believe in our ability to find them.

Regards,
Elena

11. Be unconventional

“Be unconventional” directly calls for an embrace of the unconventional in both thought and action. It’s less about the thinking process and more about the attitude and approach to problem-solving.

This is particularly useful when encouraging a team or individual to fully commit to innovative approaches in their work. It has an informal tone, suitable for conversations aiming to boost creativity and boldness in projects.

Here’s an example:

Hello Team,

In our next project, let's be unconventional. Unique and bold ideas will lead us to success.

Kindly,
Oliver

12. Try it from another angle

“Try it from another angle” suggests a shift in perspective or approach without the need for drastic change. It’s a gentle nudge towards reevaluation and creative thinking.

This alternative is best used when you want to encourage someone to reconsider their current approach in a subtle way. It’s informal and supportive, perfect for one-on-one emails or small group communications where you’re guiding rather than instructing.

Email sample:

Hello Team,

As we work through our current challenge, I encourage you to try it from another angle. Sometimes, a small shift in perspective can lead to big breakthroughs.

All the best,
Nora

Final Thoughts

Changing the way we ask for creative thinking can make a big difference in the responses we receive. By using the twelve alternatives to “think outside the box,” we not only avoid clichés but also open the door to fresh, innovative ideas. Each suggestion comes with its context, showing there’s always a fitting way to inspire others. The goal is to foster a creative environment where everyone feels encouraged to contribute unique solutions.