Improve Your Problem Solving Skills

Summary

This video emphasizes the importance of problem-solving and decision-making as critical skills for success. It presents a seven-step method to effectively tackle any problem: 1) Define the problem clearly, 2) Identify possible causes, 3) Generate potential solutions, 4) Make a decision, 5) Assign responsibility, 6) Set a reporting schedule and standards, and 7) Take action. The video highlights that those who excel at problem-solving tend to earn more and advance faster in their careers. With practice, these skills can be developed to achieve better outcomes in both personal and professional life.

Takeaways

• 🔍 Define the problem clearly by gathering real facts, not just apparent or obvious ones.
• ❓ Identify all possible causes of the problem to understand why it happened.
• 💡 Generate as many potential solutions as possible to increase the chance of finding the ideal solution.
• ✔️ Make a decision quickly, as most problems can be solved immediately.
• 🗂 Assign responsibility for implementing the decision, specifying who will do what and when.
• ⏳ Set a schedule for reporting progress and establishing standards for measuring success.
• 🎯 Ensure someone takes action to implement the solution and resolve the issue.
• 🚀 Focusing on solutions makes you smarter and more effective at problem-solving.
• 💼 Skilled problem solvers are often the highest-paid and most rapidly promoted individuals in organizations.
• 🧠 Problem-solving is a learnable skill that can be developed through practice and mental discipline.

Q & A

What is one of the most important qualities of leaders and effective people?

One of the most important qualities of leaders and effective people is the ability to solve problems and make good decisions that lead to better results.

Why is problem-solving considered essential for success?

Problem-solving is essential for success because life is a series of problems to be solved, and solving problems effectively at your level can lead to promotions and higher pay.

Can problem-solving and decision-making skills be learned?

Yes, effective problem-solving and decision-making are learnable skills that can be developed with practice and by learning how to tap into the mind’s incredible powers.

What is the first step in solving a problem according to the script?

The first step is to define the problem clearly by getting the real facts, not just the apparent or obvious ones.

Why is it important to get the real facts before solving a problem?

It is important because time and energy are often wasted trying to solve problems when the people involved are unclear about what the real problem is.

What should you ask in step two of problem-solving?

In step two, you should ask what all the possible causes of the problem are, and how and why the problem happened.

What is the relationship between understanding the causes of a problem and finding a solution?

There is a direct relationship between the number of reasons you come up with for the problem’s origin and the likelihood that a solution will present itself.

What should you do in step three of solving a problem?

In step three, you should consider all the possible solutions. The more potential solutions you generate, the more likely you are to find the ideal one.

Why is making a decision important, even if it’s not perfect?

Making any decision is often better than making none, and 80% of problems should be solved as soon as they arise rather than being delayed for additional research.

What is the significance of assigning responsibility in problem-solving?

Assigning responsibility ensures that someone is accountable for implementing the decision and achieving the desired standard within a specific timeframe.

What is the role of setting a schedule and standard in problem-solving?

Setting a schedule and standard allows you to measure whether the decision has been successful. Without this, a solution is just a discussion, not an actionable plan.

Why is taking definite action important in resolving problems?

Action is crucial because focusing on solutions and acting on them helps you become smarter and better at solving problems, which leads to better career success.

How can you improve your problem-solving skills?

Problem-solving skills can be improved with practice and by continually focusing on solutions in both life and work.