People often need a change in atmosphere or surroundings to encourage new ideas. Where many people like sunny days others enjoy the rain. Try something new in your teamwork brain storming. Bring it outdoors or take to a different room. Its the little things that yield the best reactions.

I encourage open dialogue to ensure all voices are heard, use structured brainstorming to blend ideas creatively, and focus on shared goals to align efforts. These steps spark innovation and help the team move forward collaboratively.

Conflicting ideas sound like there’s a bigger solution to the problem at hand. 1. Engage the team in the 5 whys. Get to a point where everyone can understand the 5th why. Now you can start solution building. 2. If there’s multiple processes to the problem, do a fish bone. I like to explain it like you’re taking the 5 why and putting a magnifying glass on each why to understand it deeper. 3. Do this in a manner everyone can see the information at all times. My experience is out of sight, out of mind. The problem needs to be emphasis so the best solution is found. Above all else, stay positive. Because I’m sure there’s plenty more problems for the team to solve together in the future.

People usually agree on the end goal but not on how to get there. It's not easy but standing still forever isn't going to help anyone either. What do you actually agree on and start from this foundation, sometimes you have to give and take. You might have to take turns on this but this is where leadership must have some authority also to steer the group decision.

When ideas clash, it's time to channel that energy into innovation. Start by creating a safe space where everyone can share without judgment — sometimes the wildest ideas spark the brightest solutions. Use techniques like reverse brainstorming (thinking of ways to make the problem worse first) to loosen creative blocks. Identify shared goals to anchor discussions, ensuring everyone feels heard. If needed, bring in a neutral facilitator or fresh perspective to reframe the issue. Remember, “Innovation is born from the intersection of differences” (Howard Schultz). Celebrate small wins from aligned ideas to build momentum. Finally, keep it fun — collaborating should feel like piecing together a puzzle, not a tug-of-war!