How to solve problems

A mouse who lived near a farmhouse saw the farmer set a mousetrap one day. Terrified, he ran outside shouting, "Help! Help! There's a mousetrap in the house!"

The chicken didn't care. "I never go into the house, so why should I worry?"

The lamb said, "It's not my concern."

The cow said, "There's nothing I can do."

One night, a venomous snake slithered in the house and got its tail caught in the trap. When the farmer's wife went to see what happened, she got bit. She developed a high fever, so the farmer decided to make her some chicken soup, and soon the chicken was gone.

Neighbors came to visit and had to be fed, so the farmer served them lamb.

Sadly, the farmer's wife died, and the farmer had to sell his cow to the butcher to cover the funeral expenses.

So, the next time you think someone else's problem doesn't affect you — maybe it does.

When it comes to dealing with general business problems, the key is to have a systematic approach. The first step is to identify the problem. You need to drill down to the root cause of the issue. Is it a dip in sales, a product quality concern, or something else? Understanding the core problem is the first step to finding a solution.

I have a philosophy that I learned from a loyal reader years ago. Before anyone comes to me with a problem or concern, I want them to give the issue some thought and come up with some reasonable solutions on their own. This is way better than just handing the problem over to me.

This is such an empowering concept! It should change your thought process completely. What a great way to encourage creative solutions.

Then you can generate a list of solutions. Allow yourself and your team to brainstorm freely. No idea is too outlandish at this stage, because creativity can spark viable solutions. Encourage open-mindedness and consider all suggestions.

Next, narrow down the solutions and evaluate the ideas based on feasibility, cost, impact and alignment with your business goals. Trim the list to the most promising one or two solutions.

Now, it is time to take action and develop a plan to implement the chosen solution(s). Consider what resources you will need, identify potential obstacles and prepare contingency plans.

Finally, evaluate the outcome. Did the solution work? Can it be sustained and improved? Learn from this process to handle future problems more effectively. Problem-solving is a repetitive process. It is about being proactive, adaptable and continuously learning.

Your attitude toward problems determines your ability to overcome them; approach them with optimism and unwavering belief. Every problem has a solution, but it takes a clear head and a sharp mind to find it. Keep your eyes on the goal, and don't let the problem cloud your vision.

Here's a suggestion that I heard years ago. Instead of lamenting "What now?" turn your thinking into "What next?" In other words, how can I turn this problem into a terrific opportunity? Look beyond the temporary hiccup and think not only about how your solution will remedy the problem but also what you can do to prevent a future issue. Don't be surprised if you wonder why you didn't do it before.

Problem solving is not easy, so don't make it harder than it is. Running away from your problems is a race you will never win. Running away from any problem only increases the distance from the solution.

Mountains are meant to be climbed. Wounds are meant to be healed, and problems are meant to become learning experiences. They all serve a purpose. They make us stronger mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

Mackay's Moral: The best way to escape your problems is to solve them.

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Harvey Mackay is the author of the New York Times bestseller "Swim With the Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive." He can be reached through his website, www.harveymackay.com, by emailing harvey@mackay.com or by writing him at MackayMitchell Envelope Co., 2100 Elm St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414.