Mini-masterclass with Powrsuit co-founders Nat and Kristen.
Problem solving 1 of 3
Ever noticed how some months you’re flat out, ticking off tasks, but nothing really moves forward? It could be because you’re jumping to solution mode without first uncovering the real problem.
With strategy, the challenge isn’t finding ideas, it’s figuring out which ones are worth pursuing. Not doing more but doing less, really well. Strong problem-solving skills enable you to identify the optimal next step.
How to find the real problem: Most ‘problems’ are actually solutions in disguise. When overwhelmed, ‘We need more people’ isn’t the problem – but a suggested fix. Solve the wrong problem, and you’re stuck in the same place six months later.
To get to the root cause, keep asking why. After a bunch of digging, we get to ‘We don’t know what’s important.’ Read more on convergent vs divergent thinking.
The step everyone skips: Test the answer. If solving that one thing would deliver exactly what you need, you’ve found it. If not, push further. In our example, it turns out the real problem was that we’re uncomfortable saying no – the culture or existing processes don’t support it.
The more you practise peeling the onion, the more (and faster) you flex your strategic muscle.
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