Problem Solving 101: a simple book for smart people
Ok, so I've read some books and not written them down. Some were awesome (Richard Branson's Losing My Virginity), others not so (Grotesque by Kirino Natsuo). But I'm going to start this year by the first book I finished reading this year, so here goes... Book: Problem Solving 101: A Simple Book for Smart People Author: Watanabe, Ken This book is a handy reference for all those logic you knew but rarely put into practice. In his clear but comprehensive presentation of problem-solving approaches and good practices, Watanabe teaches us, or rather reiterates to us, how to be effective problem solvers for better outcomes in implementing changes, goal-setting and decision making for a better life. These are the gist of learnings gained from this little gem: 1. Understand the situation--> identify problems-->develop effective action plans-->execute and modify until the problem is solved. Seems straightforward, huh? Dunno about you but the last step is the oft-neglected but most
important step that I'm often guilty of slacking in. 2. Diagnosing the situation and identifying the root of the problem: list down all possible causes-->develop a hypothesis for each possible cause-->establish analysis and information required to test hypothesis-->analyse and identify the root of the problem. 3. Developing solutions: develop various possible solutions to solve the problem-->prioritise action list-->develop implentation plan. 4. Achieving your dreams require the breaking down of a main goal to smaller achievable goals. This much we know. Well, how do you achieve them? Ken's suggestions: (One): Establish a clear goal.
(Two): Establish the gap between the goal and the current situation.
(Three): Create a hypothesis on how to diminish the gap and reach the goal--write as many possible choices and suggestions, and choose the best suggestions as the hypothesis.
(Four): Check the hypothesis. Return to (three) if unproven. Establish analysis and information required to test the hypothesis, analyse and develop an action plan before choosing the best option. 5. Establishing pros and cons will help us in making choices, one of life's most imminent processes. Watanabe divides this into a two-schemed process. First, write down all choices and list down their pros and cons, then weigh each positive and negative points on the list before choosing the best option. Second, set down the evaluation criteria, set the importance of each criterium and evaluate each option according to the weighted criteria. 6. Have a questioning mind when establishing pros and cons, and be proactive and have a good balance of reflection and action. The charm of the book lies in its ability to be understood by a fifth-grader and its applicability to a wide range of common problems we face. The lightweight, concise presentation method suits people with a busy schedule, and makes for an enjoyable, breezy, but ultimately enlightening read. Sanny's rating:
Fun: ★★★★✩
Brain capacity required: ★★★✩✩
Real-life application: ★★★★★
Learning: ★★★✩✩
Inspirational value: ★★★✩✩
Value for time spent: ★★★★✩Sent using BlackBerry® from Orange
