describes the ability and willingness to approach the familiar in a new way.

Progress requires leaving behind familiar ways of thinking. In the process, boundaries are questioned and consciously transcended in order to gain a new perspective on the interrelationships. Innovative people think and act creatively, they act instead of react and actively initiate change.

The ability to think in a non-linear way is what distinguishes innovative people: While linear or "vertical" thinking proceeds step by step and is based on practiced patterns, innovative people question conventional thought patterns on principle. Situations and framework conditions are not accepted as unchangeable.