We all have problems. When we don’t have solutions to those problems, they frustrate us, distract us, and cause us to waste time and resources. They slow our progress and hinder our success.
What do you do when the yogurt hits the fan and you don’t know what to do about it?
Here are some ideas, many of which I have used to solve problems and achieve goals:
- Write it down. Take an hour or a day and reflect on the issue. Make notes, brainstorm ideas, write a list of pros and cons. You may already know what to do. Get it out of your head and onto paper.
- Procrastinate. Maybe you’re not ready to start or finish the project. Give yourself time (without guilt) to heal, to rest, to find new ideas, to evaluate whether this is really something you should do and if so, how to do it.
- Recall past successes. Think about how you solved similar problems or achieved similar goals. Remind yourself that if you did it once you can do it again.
- Think about what you want, not what you don’t want. Focus on solutions, not problems. See yourself doing the activities (writing, speaking, presenting, signing up clients, etc.) that will create your desired outcomes.
- Start walking. Exercise will help you feel better, sleep better, and have more energy. Walking is a great way to clear your head, clarify your thoughts, and generate new ideas.
- Change your habits. Bad habits tend to metastasize into other areas of your life. A habit of watching too much TV, for example, in addition to taking time away from productive activities, can create or exacerbate other bad habits that hold you back from reaching your full potential.
- Don’t worry, be happy. It is difficult to succeed when you are afraid or worried or in pain. Change the subject. Think about (or do) things that make you happy. The happier you are, the easier it will be to find the solutions and do the activities needed to achieve your goals.
- Remember why you’re doing this. Your goal may be difficult to achieve, your problem may be difficult to solve. Remind yourself that the work, the problems, the sacrifices, are worth the effort.
- Talk to someone. An expert, a coach, a shrink, a clergyman. Talk to God. Talk to a friend or someone who has overcome similar problems and can offer advice or a shoulder to cry on.
- “What would Einstein do?” Have an imaginary conversation with someone you know or a historical figure you admire. Ask them to tell you what they would do in your situation.
- Get more information. Read, take classes, watch videos, hire a consultant. If anyone has done what you want to do, you can do it, too. Find out what they did and do it.
- Compartmentalize. Put your problems or worries in a mental lock box and don’t open it until you’re ready to do something about them. Don’t let them distract you from doing the other things you need to do.
- Get help. Hire someone who is good at the job you’re struggling to do. Hire more staff to do some of the work that is overwhelming you. Free up some time to do what you do best.
- Do something different. For things to change, you must change. Try a different marketing method, a different workflow, a different practice area, or a different attitude about what you’re currently doing.
Finally, don’t be so hard on yourself. Few problems are fatal. Solving problems helps you to learn and grow, which is what you need to get ready for the next time the yogurt hits the fan.
Marketing can solve a multitude of problems
