They don’t solve hard problems head on.
In The 5 Elements of Effective Thinking, Edward B. Burger and Michael Starbird explian how smart people solve hard problems.
Surprisingly, they admit defeat.
First Break Complexity Down
Burger and Starbird write:
“Great scientists, creative thinkers, and problem solvers do not solve hard problems head on.
When they are faced with a daunting question, they immediately, and prudently admit defeat.
They realize that there is no sense in wasting energy vainly grappling with complexity when, instead, they can productively grapple with simpler cases that will teach them how to deal with the complexity to come.”
They bite off what they can chew.
Build Your Building Blocks of Insight
Burger and Starbird write:
“When the going gets tough, creative problem solvers create an easier, simpler problem that they can solve.
They resolve that easier issue thoroughly and then study that simple scenario with laser focus.
Those insights often point the way to a resolution of the original difficult problem.”
Before you walk on the moon, just try to hit it.
First Solve the Problems You Can Solve
Burger and Starbird write:
“Apply this mind-set to your work: when faced with a difficult issue or challenge, do something else.
Focus entirely on solving a subproblem that you know you can successfully resolve.
Be completely confident that the extraordinarily thorough work that you invest on the subproblem will later be the guide that allows you to navigate through the complexities of the larger issue.
But don’t jump to that more complex step while you’re at work on the subissue.
First just try to hit the moon … walking on its surface is for another day.”
The key to cracking complexity is first solve the simpler stuff.
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Image by @boetter.
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