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A simple metaphorical approach to problem solving is that of Forcing Relationships which is a variation of Random Word Searching. The success of the system depends on the fact that even the simplest object or situation incorporates a vast number variables, principles, values and abstract concepts -- such as uses, size, texture, material, density, manufacturing processes, colour, electrical and chemical properties, cost, quality, etc. – and, hopefully, the very principle you need to solve your current problem.

Suppose, for example, you want ideas on how to become a better manager – and you select as your random object a “brick”. You then list several attributes of a brick:

1) Used to build houses.
2) Has sharp edges.
3) Has a “frog” to accommodate cement.
4) Made from clay then baked in an oven.
Etc. Etc.

Next, you take each item on the list and float it in the visual imagination, asking your creative mind to help you perceive any useful principle that might help make you a better manager – possibly resulting in a list of ideas such as:
1) What am I really trying to build in my job?
2) Am I too sharp – or perhaps too easy going?
3) Cement is a glue – do I let go too easily?
4) Am I soft, like clay – do I avoid the “oven” of difficult confrontations?
Etc. Etc.

The ideas generated in this fashion should then be passively scanned and floated in the imagination, waiting for a magical gestalt, a synthesis or unifying “insight” to emerge which can then become the basis of a carefully planned self-improvement project .

The example shown uses the random word “brick” – but a wider range of principles can be investigated by using a more complex situation, such as playing football, going to the cinema, riding a bike, fighting a battle, taking a bath, going to the zoo, having a picnic, etc.