Make new friends

Often, you can get some of your best ideas from building off the ideas of others. That's why it pays a lot to know a lot of other people.

But how can you expand your network and meet new people? Try volunteering.

You could volunteer in the traditional sense. Like for your favorite charity or arts organization. Maybe you could join a committee at your child's school. Or even the board of a local professional association.

You can also volunteer at work. Seek out additional projects that will allow you to work with different people and outside departments.

It's not always easy and it takes time, but the idea payoff is worth it.