Problems and Peeps and Progress

When discussing a problem, be sure to focus on the future over the past. Ask the question, "Where do we go from here?” or “What do we do from here?” “What are our options for the future?"

Too many problem-solving discussions end up focusing all of the attention of all the people present on what happened in the past and who is to blame. Remember what my father says, "Great minds discuss ideas, small minds discuss people." Focus on the issue and leave the dramatics to the reality-tv producers.

The effective executive uses this type of communication to focus on where the company and the individuals are going, and what can happen in the future - the only part of the situation over which anyone has any control.

A second element in effective problem solving communications is for you to talk about the solutions instead of talking about the problems. It is for you to keep the attention of the individuals in the meeting focused on the possible solutions and what can be done rather than what has already happened.

Creativity is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it will get and the more flexible it will be. You will be able to recall your creativity at will. The discussion of solutions is inherently positive, uplifting and has a tendency to release even more creativity amongst a group. A discussion of problems is inherently negative, de-motivating and will atrophy your creativity.