The influence of growth mindset, discipline, flow and creativity on innovation: Introducing the M.D.F.C. model of innovation

In times of change, such as during periods wrought by the COVID-19 pandemic, organisations must innovate, as otherwise, they will perish. The only acceptable way forward now is about exploring avenues for increasing innovation in order for businesses to survive. The purpose of our paper is to put forward a conceptual model of factors with the potential to positively influence innovations to assist aspiring leaders and managers in addressing challenges in the future when uncertainty may be the norm rather than the exception. The authors introduce a novel M.D.F.C. Innovation Model, comprising the concepts of a growth mindset (M) and flow (F) as well as the skills of discipline (D) and creativity (C). While the elements of the new M.D.F.C. conceptual model of innovation – as separate areas of study - have been extensively researched in past studies, the authors have combined them into one model for the first time. The opportunities stemming from the proposed new model are numerous, with the implications for educators, industry and theory discussed. Developing the teachable skills outlined in the model can bring benefits for both educational institutions and employers, as more employees could be equipped to look forward, be innovative and bring new, creative solutions to ill-defined problems. The model is equally suitable for individuals wishing to embrace thinking outside of the box to reap the benefits of enhancing their capacity for innovation in all aspects of their lives.