"It's not that I'm so smart,
it's just that I stay with problems
longer."~Albert Einstein
Good
Morning!
When I saw this quote, I immediately
wondered if perhaps, that is the definition of "smart" - staying with
the problem until the answer is found. Maybe many of us who "look
smart" don't necessarily grasp things more quickly, or have a natural
knack, but
have persistence and perseverance. I love that Einstein, one of
the greatest minds of all time, was the one credited with this
statement.
Although I am far from Einstein, I could relate to this quote. Many
people have asked how I have overcome certain obstacles or created
certain processes. It certainly wasn't a stroke of genius or brilliance
or a light bulb flash above my head. But it was "staying with the
problem longer." I know inherently that every problem must have a
solution. Our commitment to discovering that solution is what makes the
difference.
As we learn to problem solve, our problem-solving skills develop and
become stronger. The only thought-pattern required to implementing
positive problem-solving skills in your own life is a curious mind and
the belief that each problem must have a solution.
Your Turn: Work on increasing your
problem-solving skills. Instead of shrinking away from a challenge or
problem, realize that each challenge or problem does have a solution -
become a detective with the aim of uncovering it. Some solutions can be
discovered in a day, some may take months - but the solutions are
there. Try writing down a problem you are facing. Then ask yourself
questions to begin exploring solutions.
Some questions you might try include:
- How did this problem come into being?
- Who do I know that might be able to give me ideas or
strategies for solving this problem?
- What would the answer/solution look like?
- What steps are needed to get that answer or solution?
- What role did I play in the creation of this problem
and if I reversed my actions/thought patterns, would that impact a
solution?
- What are 5 crazy solutions I can dream up?
(Brainstorming quick lists --no matter how outrageous--
helps us become creative in our approach and solution focused).
Your Affirmation: For every challenge or problem, I
know there is a solution. I also know that I can find it.
