On the scale of things, this is not a big problem. This reminds me of what our guidance counselors are always referring to which is what is the "size of the problem" - that language has stuck with me, and the truth is that this problem is not big, but it is annoying and still a problem for many of us.
Looking deeply at this problem has been a good lesson for me. I've learned a lot including the following:
- Be respectful of problems--when you toss blame around or use snide and accusatory actions/words about a problem, you inflate the problem rather than solve it. So when faced with a problem, the first words should be, let's sit down and analyze all the factors that are leading to this problem and figure out best solutions.
- Check your biases when problem solving. Are you letting your long-held and perhaps unjustified or exaggerated perception of others get in the way of understanding and solving the problem?
- Make time to dissect problems--look at all the factors contributing to the mess in a logical way and do the forensics needed to see exactly why the problem occurs and how the problem can be remedied.
- Make decisions with others as to the best new systems related to the problem area, and when making those decisions think long term--what are the best solutions as we move ahead with our organization; what makes the most sense and what saves good time for the organization's core mission and goals.
Positive problem management and solution is essential to any work we do. Too often we rush to solution, blame one another, and don't do the analysis needed to solve problems positively and effectively. We can probably all do better in this realm.
