Spell It Out

When facing a tough problem, the best way to start solving it is to commit it to paper. You probably can think well enough to avoid the paper approach, but writing it down allows you to think without re-running the same thoughts over and over again.

First describe the problem. For example, "my staff ignore my requests". Now, edit the problem statement to make it more precise and clear. "Quite often my staff do not act on the requests I make." Then, examine the key words and make those more precise. "In the late afternoons, certain staff members do not respond to my requests."

When the problem statement is clear, move on to identifying components of the problem. "late afternoons" - are some staff members morning people? "certain staff" - which ones exactly? "do not respond" - immediately or later or never? "my requests" - are the requests directive or perceived as suggestions?

For each component of the problem, list a few actions that will improve the situation. In this example, you could convey your requests earlier in the work day, speaking in a tone of voice that is respectfully directive, and setting time expectations for responses.

In this simple, yet common example, improvement should be seen almost immediately. A more complex problem can be analyzed in a similar manner and steps taken slowly, to ensure that permanent change is achieved.