To solve really hard problems, you need to write down or record new ideas so you don’t lose them. But you also need to organize and prioritize those ideas.
Continue reading “Chasing the Shiny New Idea”Surprise Breakthroughs
The best solutions usually hit you when you least expect them—when you’re showering, or walking the dog, or making breakfast.
Continue reading “Surprise Breakthroughs”Flex vs Force
There are 2 basic approaches to strategic problem solving: flex and force.
Continue reading “Flex vs Force”Satisficing
The typical brainstorming approach to problem solving is usually a waste of time.
Continue reading “Satisficing”The Myth of the Perfect Strategy
Your idea for how to solve a complex problem is just a starting point. It’s a hypothesis.
Continue reading “The Myth of the Perfect Strategy”Long-Game Vs Short-Game Problem Solving Part 3
Once you have a better understanding of how others see the problem, reframe the problem based on how they think things should be—not just how you think things should be.
Continue reading “Long-Game Vs Short-Game Problem Solving Part 3”Long-Game Vs Short-Game Problem Solving Part 2
Problems involving complex systems and competing goals require a long-game solution strategy. A series of smaller, incremental moves based on a wider view of the problem.
Continue reading “Long-Game Vs Short-Game Problem Solving Part 2”Long-Game Vs Short-Game Problem Solving Part 1
Problems involving complex systems and competing goals can be overwhelming.
Continue reading “Long-Game Vs Short-Game Problem Solving Part 1”Effortless Problem Solving
Coming up with better solutions isn’t about putting in more effort. It’s about creating the right conditions to make breakthroughs effortless.
Continue reading “Effortless Problem Solving”Good Strategy
Every solution to a complex problem needs a good strategy. And a good strategy is much more than just a description of the solution.
Continue reading “Good Strategy”