It is sometimes easier to refer to problems as issues, challenges or even opportunities.  If we do see a problem as an insurmountable obstacle, then it can defeat us before we even attempt to tackle it.  My initial reaction to some problems is often ‘no’ , it can’t be done.  But then the trouble-shooter in me looks again to identify possible flaws – ways over, round or through the problem.

This last week has been half-term and leaving the computer and office behind, we went to our son’s house to check out the new patio doors and design the patio area.  We had just two days to remove several tonnes of turf and earth.  And we needed a skip.  Amazingly a skip was delivered an hour after a phone call on Saturday morning and by Monday afternoon it was full, the patio area was levelled and the landscape gardeners had agreed the design and a quote to do the work.  While we could remove tonnes of soil, we didn’t have the experience and skill to build the walls and lay the stone slabs – certainly not before the winter frosts set in.

A problem, at least in Action Learning vocabulary, is a significant issue with no obvious solution.  Conversely a puzzle may be very complicated but has one unique solution.  Problems are worth clarifying, discussing and inviting others to inquire into, so that as the problem-holder, you can decide what you can do about it.  Sometimes that will mean action on your part, sometimes calling in other expertise and resources.

Moving the soil was a puzzle.  There was one solution and really only one way of doing it – by spade and wheelbarrow.  Laying the patio had various solutions, ranging from DIY to bringing in the experts.  Add the question of design and which stone to use and we had a problem to tackle.

So if something is a problem, let’s call it that by name.  Then look at the various options to tackle it – head on, or sideways; on our own or with others’ help; now or later.

The benefit of using a consultant in business is that they can focus on a specific problem and help you identify how it can be resolved.  External people are less distracted by all your other issues, often puzzles, and more removed from the organisational politics that may stifle resolution.

Happy problem-solving!