Richard Branson, boss of Virgin group, UK, spends 33% of
his time for existing business, 33% in new ventures and
33% in problem-solving; 1% is left for partying. He knows
problems are inevitable in business and is mentally prepared
to battle those. According to Goldstein & Levin, "Problem-solving
forms part of thinking. Considered the most complex of all
intellectual functions, problem-solving has been defined
as a higher-order cognitive process that requires the modulation
and control of more routine or fundamental skills."
Everyone wants to have a smooth ride in life, but encounters
problems from birth to death. World Health Organization
(WHO) declared problem-solving as the 8th life skill. It
indicates that every person must be equipped with techniques
to overcome problems in daily life. Problems are nothing
but unexpected, unforeseen and unfavorable issues that crop-up
because of internal or external forces, or a combination
of both internal and external forces. In the case of internal
forces, it could be due to negligence or lack of knowledge
of an individual that a problem arises. In such a scenario,
it can be manageable and can be tackled with unlike external
problems which are beyond the control of the individual.
It is in this context that individuals get upset, and if
the problems recur they get dejected and demotivated.
When there is inconsistency in perception and thinking
among people, problems crop up. If the expectations and
aspirations are not met there will be dissatisfaction resulting
in frustration and problems. When people fail to understand
one another they create problems for each other. Ego clashes
are the surest way to conflicts. Misunderstanding leads
to a communication gap resulting in conflicts. All these
can be ascribed to internal forces responsible for the problems.
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