What does this ubiquitous phrase thinking out of the box and its variations really mean? In simple terms it means thinking differently, or changing our thinking patterns. Think out of the box is often used as a metaphor for creative thinking, but to think out of the box involves more than creative thinking. Most thinking out of the box continues to be within the box, occasionally attempting to leave the box but always returning to the comfort of the box. Don’t push thinking out of the box too far because it can be dangerous. Changes are coming. However, when former cutting edge ideas become untouchable sacred cows, organizations need to open the box and face reality. Consider the four issues that got you into the box and can get you out of it.