8 Tips for Tackling Problems and Creating Solutions

Make The Decision: Perhaps most importantly, you must have a bias toward action, and be willing to make the decision. Moreover, you must learn to make the best decision possible even if you possess an incomplete data set.  Mike Myatt, Forbes.com contributor

Here are the 8 Tips:

1. Look at all aspects of the issue.  What happens if I don't do this?  What happens if I do? How will I benefit?  What might I lose?  And so on. 

2. Benefit: It needs to resolve an issue or at least put you in a better place - emotionally, physically, financially or all three.

3. Value-Added: How will the solution align with my existing goals?  Will it get me to my desired outcome?  Really?

4. Beyond the norm: Think outside what is usual and customary.  Sometimes taking a risk is the best action.

5.  Simple: Keep it pertinent and simple so it can be accomplished without creating extra stress.

6.  Balanced:  Evaluate the solution in terms of risk-reward, cost and benefit.

7.  “Gut” Feeling: Does it feel right?  If your "gut" is telling you something just does not feel right with your decision, take a few hours or even a day or two to re-think it. BUT, don’t get stuck in paralysis by analysis. Take action!

8.  The future: Solutions must be seen in the present and with an eye toward the future.  How will new opportunities fit into it?  Will this work for as I move forward?

We're not likely to always make the perfect decision as we all make mistakes, and additional  information may come to light, but we can commit to conducting due diligence so we can make the best decision at that time.

In Mark Twain's words: 

"Good judgment comes from experience. 

And where does experience come from?

Experience comes from bad judgment."

Ann Meacham, president of Leadership Dynamics, works with business owners and executives to  create and implement the exact strategies they need to build the business of their dreams.   Find out more about Ann at www.leadyourteams.com  Sign up for a Free Leadership Strategy Session on my website.