What is useful to me is to combine in my mind two themes that have nothing in common, but are related to my area.
Let's say, i am a programmer. So I mix Java and Dinosaurs.
Maybe i come up with "Is Java going to go extinct someday?"
It's funny. And it works for me all the time.
That is a great way to come up with cool unique ideas @flashfiction. Sounds like a secret tip to create very interesting post. Thanks so much for that insight for us all!