Good Morning: Stick-to-it-iveness – Do You Have It?

“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.

Your Two Cents: Your feedback is what motivates me to create the Good Morning. Share your thoughts and browse my archives by clicking here.

 

And as always, don’t forget to start your day with a heartfelt: “Something great is going to happen today… I can’t wait to see what it is!”

And when ending your day ask yourself: “What is one more thing I can do to make today matter?


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