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8 Things Really Great Problem Solvers Do
Remain objective
Great problem solvers approach each new problem as though it were brand new.
That way they can apply a specific solution to the problem instead of a fix that may go only partway.
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Key Ideas
Remain objective
Great problem solvers approach each new problem as though it were brand new.
That way they can apply a specific solution to the problem instead of a fix that may go only partway.
List the obstacles
Great problem solvers take a high-level view of the issues involved and jot down a list of all the potential factors that could get in the way of a solution.
Identify the opportunity
So many times great opportunities are wrapped up inside simple problems.
The problem at hand may be symptomatic of bigger problems with your systems or perhaps your industry.
Break down silos
Great problem solvers are also great facilitators.
They use their communication skills to help others share information so all bases are covered.
Translate research into action
Data and precedent are important but at some point, you just have to take action.
Get enough research to understand the issues and then engage your creativity to find new ways to better solve old issues.
Reverse engineer
Great problem solvers have the vision to picture the ideal working scenario and then construct the methodology that will achieve the desired effect.
Engage open-minded people
Great problem solvers know the best results come from groups of open-minded people.
Your problem-solving team must be willing to get outside of the box and uncomfortable.
Leave your ego aside
Often great solutions to problems are ignored because a leader wants the solution to be his or her idea.
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5
Key Ideas
Use the why lens
Great leaders only solve problems within their control. Ones connected to their biggest why. They ask:
- Is this our problem?
- Why should we solve this problem?
- What ...
Problems as opportunities
Problems fuel great leaders, providing opportunities to learn and grow to the next level.
The greater the problem, the hungrier they are for a solution. Leaders like Richard Branson, Elon Musk, and Bill Gates view problems as golden opportunities to disrupt the market and revolutionize the customer experience.
Acknowledging the problem
Great leaders acknowledge there is a problem and demonstrate the severity of the problem and the benefit of the solution to stakeholders, partners, and shareholders.
This way, the leader not only takes responsibility for making the problem transparent, but he or she also explores different dimensions of the problem, consequently benefiting from others’ ideas.
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4
Key Ideas
Small Thinking And Big Thinking
Companies, teams and individual achievers are sharply focused on achieving goals. But this focus on completion often limits the scope of the results and stifles innovation.
There is a ...
Create Specified Time For Thinking
Set aside time to tackle a problem and then use the entire time. Don't head for the door after the first good idea, as there may be bigger and better ideas to come.
Encourage Outside Learning
Bring facilitation techniques to encourage participation.
By giving team members time and resources to grow, learn, and explore you get a better quality and wider brainstorming.
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