Solving Problems That You Shouldn’t Have
It seems pretty common for people to complain about problems. One reason is that the easiest problems, those that require few resources and small efforts, are often solved first. Have you ever felt like you are solving problems that you shouldn’t have?
In most workplaces the higher your pay grade the more responsibility you have. With more responsibility come more problems. Many supervisors and managers dislike problems. They might feel like problems are something that they shouldn’t have.
The reality is that they are solving the problems that remain. The problems that are tough, require extra resources, and take a while.
Solving the biggest problems often requires making changes and taking bigger risks. They also require courage and persistence. If they weren’t challenging, they would already be solved.
Solving Problems
While there are many technical issues behind solving large scale problems here are some reminders of the basics:
- Get data. Gather input and discover as much background as possible. Don’t procrastinate and be cautious of anchoring to the information available.
- Discover root cause. You must always get to the root cause. Yes you can use cause and effect diagrams, fishbone diagrams, or even just the five why’s technique. Get to the root.
- Make choices. Procrastination about taking action is often problematic. Avoid analysis paralysis. Data and discovery are important, but refuse to allow this quest to avoid taking action.
- Be patient. Jumping in and getting started is important, but the big problems wouldn’t be around if they were easily solved. Effective change or resolution might take a little time.
Why You?
Consider that problems are your problem and that solving them might not be easy.
Step up, be brave, understand the root cause and make some moves.
What you try might not always work. It’s probably a tough one to solve.
That’s why it came to you.
– DEG
Dennis E. Gilbert is a business consultant, speaker (CSPTM), and corporate trainer that specializes in helping businesses and individuals accelerate their leadership, their team, and their success. He is a four-time author and some of his work includes, Forgotten Respect, Navigating A Multigenerational Workforce and Pivot and Accelerate, The Next Move Is Yours! Reach him through his website at Dennis-Gilbert.com or by calling +1 646.546.5553.
