"How Might We" Unlocking Innovation with Three Simple Words

FutureProof Advisor Podcast

Creativity isn't a gift—it’s a tool. The difference between average firms and innovative ones often comes down to the questions their teams are trained to ask. Too often, we default to limiting language like “Should we…” or “Can we…”—questions that quietly reinforce boundaries and trigger judgment. But when we reframe the conversation with a simple “How might we…,” the tone shifts, the ideas expand, and suddenly the room starts thinking differently.

In this episode of The FutureProof Advisor, I share stories from my own experience running innovation labs, as well as real-world examples like Procter & Gamble’s product breakthroughs, to show how subtle language changes can create massive shifts in team dynamics. “How might we…” doesn’t just sound more open—it creates psychological safety, inviting people to share bold or imperfect ideas without fear. That kind of space leads to more creative solutions, stronger collaboration, and ultimately, better outcomes for clients and internal processes alike.

But curiosity alone isn’t enough—you also need structure. We talk about how to lead teams through divergent thinking in the early stages, and then transition to focused decision-making that drives implementation. When teams know when to explore and when to execute, innovation becomes not just possible—but repeatable. This episode is about giving your firm permission to think bigger, while giving your people the framework to make it real.