divergent – convergent
generative – evaluative
flaring out – focusing in
coming up with ideas – deciding on the best ideas
Whatever you call it, it’s important to note there are different modes of thinking. Neither is better or worse than the other, just more optimal in certain situations. When you want to come up with ideas, you should steer clear of evaluating ideas at the same time. When you want to focus in on the best ideas, you should put a hold on generating more.
Know where you are in the process and wear that hat accordingly. You’ll need them both, but not at the same time.