Different Solutions to One Issue
by Laurie Wilhelm
We’re always going to run into individuals who take a different approach to an issue than we would. It’s natural, however, to want to go with our own solution because it’s the one that is the easiest to understand, implement, and makes most sense. To us, at least. Often, we tend to think our way is the best way…and the only way.
There are times when it’s hard to say whose approach is the best but in many cases, it can probably said that many of the approaches are different – not right, wrong, good or bad – just different.
Try to be open to other recommendations on how approach issues. Your way may seem easiest to you and complicated to someone else and vice versa but instead of trying to persuade others to do it your way, take what seems to be a chance to you and try theirs. You may be surprised at the outcome – you may benefit from it by learning something different, you may see issues a different way, or you may even learn that this solution really wasn’t very good and now you know what not to do!
Being flexible and accepting to approach an issue with another person’s solution reinforces good interpersonal relationships because you’re showing trust in their idea. You’re giving them confidence by allowing them to demonstrate their problem-solving skills and you’re accepting to work with them as part of a team to resolve the issue without your having to be in constant control.
While it may be challenging to “let go” of your solution and accept another’s, the flexibility of your action will show your willingness to be a team player by not insisting that your way is the best and only way.
photo©iStockphoto.com/Yuri Arcurs
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