Complaining is Not Problem Solving - Part Three

If you are complaining and yet doing nothing, then you have NO right to complain. Only when you have done everything you can on your part, have you earned the right to voice your displeasure. Even then, it should be voiced to those who can take the next step. So how do you problem solve.

1. Define the problem: What are all the aspects of the problem. Brainstorm all elements of it. Look at what contributes to it, what those contributions cause and what the end result is. Circle everything that you can impact or make a change to. Pick one or two that you can begin to work on today.

2. Set Goals: Turn what you have circled into goals. Work out everything you need to do to achieve the goals. It might be only one thing. It might take several steps. By breaking it into small parts, you can then begin to break it down. Get ideas from others. Show them what you are working on. Two, three or even more minds are better then one. If it is a company problem, give it to everyone to send in ideas.

3. ACT: It can not be stressed enough that without action, a goal is just a dream. Part of the addiction - Fast and Easy - leads to procrastination. We will put off today whatever we can in hopes someone else will fix it. Remember the poem in part one. You must choose to act and do so. You have destination - You have a map. Start the car and go.

4. Learn: As you move down the path to the goal, learn from what works and what does not. The light bulb was not invented in the first try, not even the 500th try so do not expect your first solution to necessarily solve the problem. If it does not, look it over. What did you do that was working. What did you do that was not. Go back to step two and start over. It might even require you to go back to step one. Maybe the problem was not what you thought as you began to work on it.

A body in motion stays in motion. It is a scientific fact. It is no different for our brain. Once we truly commit to solving a problem, (notice I said truly and not half heartedly) our brain even while we sleep will be attempting to solve it. Ever wake up with an idea? That is why.

Think about the title of this article. Are you a problem solver or a complainer. Problem solvers find solutions and then find success and happiness. Complainers find more problems to complain about. Misery loves company so do not let these termites of your organizations and companies bring you to their level. Solve problems and take action. Only then will life around you change in the manner that will bring you peace and comfort.