One of the most consistent and shockingly simple actions one can take to open their mind is to take a different route - whether in a daily walk or a work approach. Innovation works the same way. Every job should include an element of it, even if it’s not clear at first. From using a new piece of tech, to challenging yourself to complete a task in a different way. When this mindset becomes second nature, it's easier to find balance and avoid the panic of looming deadlines. From there it's easier to define a clear timeline, where the "shiny innovation bit" isn’t left for last "if there’s time". Instead, it’s baked into the design and development from the start, with the team aligned on the parts they need to play for the job to succeed.

To balance innovation and practicality: 1.Prioritize :urgent tasks but allow time for ideas. 2. Collaborate :to blend diverse insights. 3. Implement gradual changes : to avoid disruptions.

Balancing innovation and practicality involves setting clear goals to align efforts, fostering a culture of experimentation where new ideas can be piloted, and using agile methodologies for flexibility. Involving diverse perspectives ensures a range of ideas, while critical evaluation helps assess feasibility. Prototyping and iterating allow for adjustments based on feedback, and cross-functional collaboration offers insights into practical constraints, ultimately driving continuous improvement.