Metaphor Making

Understand one thing in terms of another

Creativity R-Directed Thinking Empathy

Problem it solves

poor communication

Best for

Marketers, writers, and artists

Not ideal for

Those who prefer literal, straightforward communication

Overview

Why this framework exists

Metaphor making involves understanding one thing in terms of another, and using this understanding to create new and innovative connections. It requires R-Directed Thinking and a willingness to think creatively.

Core principles

3 total

Understand one thing in terms of another
Use metaphor to create new and innovative connections
Think creatively and make connections between seemingly unrelated ideas

Steps

3 steps

Identify the thing you want to understand
Start by identifying the thing you want to understand or describe. This could be a concept, an object, or an idea.
Pro tipUse mind maps or other visual tools to help generate and organize ideas
WarningBe careful not to get stuck in a rut and only consider obvious metaphors
Find a metaphor
Once you've identified the thing you want to understand, find a metaphor that can help you understand it. This could involve brainstorming, research, or simply paying attention to your surroundings.
Pro tipUse personal experiences and emotions to help generate metaphors
WarningBe careful not to force a metaphor that doesn't feel natural
Refine and iterate
Once you've found a metaphor, refine and iterate on it to create a cohesive and effective understanding. This can involve testing and refining your metaphor, gathering feedback, and making adjustments as needed.
Pro tipUse feedback from others to help refine and improve your metaphor
WarningBe careful not to over-refine or over-complicate your metaphor - sometimes simplicity is key

Checklist

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Identify the thing you want to understand
Find a metaphor
Refine and iterate on your metaphor
Use personal experiences and emotions to help generate metaphors
Think creatively and make connections between seemingly unrelated ideas

Examples

2 cases

Velcro

The invention of Velcro is a classic example of metaphor making in action. By understanding the way burrs stuck to his dog's fur, Georges de Mestral was able to create a new and innovative fastening system.

OutcomeThe invention of Velcro revolutionized the way we fasten and unfasten things

The concept of a 'journey'

The concept of a 'journey' is a common metaphor that people use to understand and describe their lives. By understanding life as a journey, people can create a narrative that gives their experiences meaning and purpose.

OutcomeThe concept of a 'journey' has become a powerful tool for personal growth and self-understanding

Common mistakes

3 traps

Not being creative enough

One of the biggest mistakes people make when trying to apply metaphor making is not being creative enough. They may be too literal or straightforward in their thinking, and not willing to think outside the box.

Not refining and iterating

Another mistake people make is not refining and iterating on their metaphors. They may come up with a metaphor that seems promising, but then not test and refine it to make sure it's effective.

Not using personal experiences and emotions

Finally, people may make the mistake of not using personal experiences and emotions to help generate metaphors. This can make their metaphors feel less authentic and less relatable to others.