Cool article about brainstorming and being creative
 

I was on the flight to LA and read this article today. It's pretty interesting.

http://www.strategy-business.com/art...0405?gko=06d13

"Two steps precede the flash: “examples from history,” when you explicitly study what others have done before you, and “presence of mind,” when you clear your brain of all expectations of solutions. In a clear mind, selected examples from history combine as insight. The last step is resolution, when the flash gives you the will to act on the idea despite the obstacles you face."

That works the best for me.