Team Up

Teaming up on a problem prevents a problem from breaking up the team.

-- Doug Smith

Problems Connecting People

Do you ever think about how problems can bring people together.

We would not choose the problem, and in many cases would not even choose to interact with the people involved, yet when we remained focused on understanding and collaboration, the problem can bring people together in ways otherwise unavailable.

We can grow individually as we work collaboratively.

Think of problems as a way of connecting people who would otherwise disconnect.

It will help you to solve the problem, and in the process, you'll meet some rather neat people.

-- Doug Smith

Centered Problem Solvers Build Relationships

When you are solving a problem with a team, how much time do you spend developing that team? How much attention do you pay to the chemistry of that team and to your team relationships?

Does it matter?

I think it does. Teams that get along do better work. People who build relationships while seeking better results usually end up with both. We can't ignore people and expect them to give us their best.

People on a problem solving team don't have to like each other, but it helps.

How can we get people to like each other?

Here are a few ways that I've found helpful:

• Reach agreement on your team's values. What traits are most important?
• Set agreements on how you'll interact with each other.
• Listen, listen, listen.
• Spend time with each other. There's no such thing as quality time, only time. Invest it in your team.

What ways have you found to be helpful in building strong relationships in a problem solving team?

-- Doug Smith

Find The Right Help

Do you have all the help you need to solve your biggest problem?

When I have a problem that I'm struggling to solve, many times I discover that the reason is that I have not yet found the right person to help me.  That ace who was so helpful with the last problem, that team that got it all done -- they may still be lacking a missing piece of wisdom, inspiration, or skill to address the current situation.

Sometimes I just need to find that one person who is best equipped to take that problem on.

Not alone, but in harmony with the efforts already being made. When the right person shows up, it can make all the difference in the world.

Maybe that's true for you.

You may only be one person away from solving that problem.

Are you looking?

-- Doug Smith

Who Is Number 2?

Who do you count on the most for help with problems? It's probably you. You, fully centered and alert, are you most valuable problem solving ally. Most of the time, it is all up to you.

Do you feel like you need help sometimes?

Of course! It may not always be the same person, but we all occasionally need help with the problems that we are working to solve. I've been blessed with some wonderful allies recently in solving some tough problems. They aren't yet solved, but the help that I'm getting from close allies is making the problem solving not only easier, not only more centered, but also more life affirming.

You are your most valuable problem solver you know. Who's number two?

-- Doug Smith

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Get People To Help With Your Problem

How often do you try to solve a problem all by yourself?

All too often, in my case. Is it pride? Is it confidence? Or, is it just a reluctance to ask for help when help is needed?

Our problems are divisible by the number of people we get to help us.

Why not get the help we need?

I'm going to work on that. How about you?

Doug Smith

Front Range Leadership: High Performance Leadership Training

doug smith training: how to achieve your goals


What have you learned today?

Get To Know Your Team

When you are working to solve a problem, how much time do you spend getting to know your team?

When we collaborate on problem solving we surround ourselves with people who can help. But not all teams are the same. The people on the team largely determine how successful we will be. A centered problem solver considers the needs, personalities, and skills of the people on the team and gets to know them better.

A problem solving team needs time to understand each other as well as the problem.

Maybe all you need is a round of introductions. Maybe all you need is a useful and bonding warm-up activity. Maybe you need a meal to relax and settle into a productive team energy. Figure out what you need and give it the attention it deserves.

The people on your team are people.

What more can you do on the next collaboration in order to learn more about the people involved?

-- Doug Smith

doug smith training: how to achieve your goals 

Front Range Leadership: High Performance Leadership Training