Some of the best ideas were created, when people took inspiration from outside their own field of interest. That’s because ideas that work in one area can often be adapted, to work even better in another.
Here’s an everyday example.
Ball point pens and deodorant
A great example of this, is the invention of the system used in underarm deodorants.
The idea was inspired by the way ball point pens work. They use a ball system to deliver an even flow of ink. This was adapted and used to provide an even flow of liquid deodorant, which many people prefer to sprays and sticks.
The ball deodorant went on to revolutionise its industry, even though the kernel of the idea came from a completely different sector.
Take a look outside your industry or profession for inspiration, but don’t copy. As Picasso rightly said, you should steal like an artist.