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Ideas for Problem Solving
Here are seven steps you can take when confronted with a problem. Instead of
feeling overwhelmed, view the problem as a challenge or a puzzle to solve.
1.
Look at the Big Picture.
Get an overview of what is happening; look at the
situation as objectively as possible. Gather relevant facts and analyze the problem.
It is important to look at the situation from many different angles.
Remain calm and remember to keep personal feelings and facts separate.
2.
Identify the real issue.
Sometimes there are many factors that impact a
problem and make it even worse. The task is to determine the major problem that is
the direct cause of the other minor problems.
3.
Brainstorm solutions.
List all the possible solutions. Do not pass any
judgment on the solutions; just list them. Be creative.
4.
Select the best solution.
Consider all of the possible solutions carefully and
weigh all the advantages and disadvantages. Select the solution that has the most
advantages and the one that will eliminate the minor problems.
5.
Make a plan.
Develop a plan to resolve the problem by identifying
the resources that can be utilized to assure that the plan will be successful. Be
certain that you have a clear plan of action; otherwise the right
solution will
not work.
6.
Put the plan into action.
You need to be committed to follow through
with the plan and put your resources to work.
7.
Check on the progress and modify the plan as needed.
The
final step is to implement the plan. Don’t be discouraged if it doesn’t work exactly
as you planned the first time. You may need to make slight modifications to the
plan.
"Everything by the inch is a cinch but by the yard it's hard"
*Compartmentalizing bigger items into smaller items is a suggested tip to achieve
success in this process
.
Section 2 - Managing Change & Your Attitude
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