A Baby Changes Everything
It has been a while since my last post, but I have a pretty good excuse. In June, my wife and I welcomed our first child into the world and I found out firsthand what people mean when they say, “a baby changes everything.” I’m adjusting to the sleep deprivation pretty well. And getting used to alternating states of exhaustion and euphoria. There are so many different aspects to our daily routine now. And so many gadgets I never knew existed! For an inventor, this world of nasal syringes and diaper-genies holds just one inspiration after another.
Inspirations for new product ideas often come from examining things from a new perspective. Ideas come from flashes of insight that happen when we kick ourselves out of rote routine and into a state of mindfulness. Babies certainly have a way of getting us to live in the moment. Try changing a diaper without paying close attention to what you’re doing, and you will find yourself peed on more often than not. Trust me.
A great way to come up with new ideas is to keep track of little everyday frustrations and then spend some time reflecting on how a new product might help you eliminate that friction from your life. A sunhat that doesn’t fall off? A less stressful way to clip baby fingernails? A better umbrella stroller? Each aspect of your day might hold an opportunity to come up with a new or improved product that makes life easier.
Technology solutions for new parents are becoming more and more common. Doing a little research into the latest tech gadgets aimed at babies, I came across the Baby Tech Awards and Showcase at CES. Some of these ideas address medical issues, like how to take a sick baby’s temperature through the night, or they provide parents with more accurate information like sleeping and eating patterns. Combining great product design with new technology is an exciting opportunity to change life for the better. I’m sure I haven’t even begun to scratch the surface of all the issues new parents might need to address, but I’m looking forward to paying close attention to our little guy as he grows, and I know there are going to be plenty of inspiring moments that will lead to new ideas. Right now, I’m going to figure out how to stop getting peed on.