VNLA Newsletter Spring 2018

Ask an "Indian chief." A Whack On The Side Of The Head, by Roger von Oech, challenges us to jump start our creativity by looking at a problem from a totally different perspective. "How would an Indian chief solve this prob- lem?" is one of my favorite lines out of the book. Would your son or daughter give you a different perspective that you would not have thought of? Ask questions until the solution appears . Take the time to identify the obstacles and opportunities of your problem, then ask questions such as "how can this obstacle become a positive solution or advantage to taking action?" Questions engage our brains in a dynamic way, don't they? Create a plan . From the strategies mentioned here and oth- ers you may use, put a plan together to take action. Begin with a step that may seem so incredibly simple; yet starting here will create momentum. It is the best way to overcome inertia and create an initial win. Believe in a Solution Before we can ever solve a problem, we must first believe a solution is possible. If we speak in terms of solving the problem rather than being hindered by it, then the solution can be just some creative steps away. In the Landscape Pro- fession, we are in the process of finding a solution to a seri- ous recruiting problem. As energized professionals who

MAKERS

BREAKERS

1. Here is what you need to do . . .

1. CONSIDER . . .

2. Let me share some infor- mation.

2. I will tell you . . .

3. Be advised . . .

3. You should know . . .

4. That happens every time . . .

4. That is a likely event . . .

5. This is a challenge . . .

5. I'm not good at . . . 6. You don't listen . . .

6. Let me clarify . . .

7. Can I offer my help? 7. What is the matter with you? STRATEGIES THAT PRODUCE SOLUTIONS AND ACTION Who do you know? When asked, people are generally will- ing to help in a collaborative way. Use your network to in- corporate the skills of people who can help you find a solu- tion for your problem, big or small! Consider the impact of high school horticulture teachers and college professors en- listing help from their students in telling their own story to friends and others that would be drawn to the profession.

Ad - AgriSupply

44

April/May/June 2018 VNLA Newsletter April / May / June 2018 V LA Newsletter