We wrote this book to transform the way people see—so that we can change the way we live. We believe that imagination—the ability and willingness to conceive of new possibilities—is central to success in life.

The best companies know that innovative thinking is the only competitive advantage that can’t be outsourced. The best schools are those with deep cultures of creative problem-solving. But both innovation and creativity depend on imagination first. And fortunately, imagination is something we all can cultivate—with practice.

Our book shows how. At the heart of Imagination First is a set of universal practices for opening minds at work, home, and play. These 28 (and a half) practices, with titles like Think Inside the Box, Break the Hand, and Routinize Randomness, are designed to enable anyone—from corporate executive to platoon sergeant or preschool teacher—to get unstuck, to reframe challenges, and to help others do the same.

With stories drawn from the lives of business leaders, teachers, scientists, artists, and other diverse professionals, Imagination First is a playful guide for practitioners of possibility at any scale and in any sector. On this Web site, you’ll find a community blog; resources for further study; a discussion guide; and, coming soon, an open-ended list of practices that starts with the ones in the book but leaves room for your ideas. This is designed to be a community Web site and our hope is that you will contribute practices, stories, and insights.

Together, we can reflect on how imagination shapes the work we do and inspire others to live, learn and teach with a passionate appreciation for the power of possibility. Please explore this Web site and join our community!

—Eric Liu and Scott Noppe-Brandon

P.S. This book and the series of Imagination Conversations are part of the Lincoln Center 50 Years celebration.