1 Yr GM Case Guideline Managers are typically effective at focusing on problems and diagnosing what is wrong and how to fix it when they have to make a decision. The typical questions that managers might ask themselves include: What is the problem here? What is the cause of this problem? Why is this problem happening to me? What alternatives do I have? What is the best alternative? How do I implement this alternative? There is a novel approach to decision making, called outcome-directed thinking, that some managers have learned to use. It focuses on future outcomes and possibilities rather than on the causes of the problem. People tend to feel more positive emotions, have more creative ideas, and experience more optimism about solving a problem when they focus on desired future outcomes rather than on who or what caused the problem. Step 1. Think of a problem that you have in your life right now, in which something is not what you would like it to be. It could be any problem that you are having at school, home, or work that you would like to solve. Guide line For Step 1 Certainly, I can help you apply this novel approach to decision-making called outcome-directed thinking to a problem in your life. Let's go through the steps: Step 1: Identify the Problem Think about a problem in your life right now where something is not as you would like it to be. It could be a problem at school, home, or work. Take a moment to identify this problem. Step 2: Shifting Your Focus to Future Outcomes Now, instead of dwelling on what caused the problem or why it's happening, shift your focus to future outcomes and possibilities. Ask yourself: What would the ideal solution look like? What are the positive outcomes I want to achieve by solving this problem? How would my life be better if this problem were resolved? Step 3: Generate Creative Ideas With your focus on future outcomes, allow yourself to brainstorm creative ideas for solving the problem. Don't worry about whether these ideas seem realistic or practical at this stage. Just let your mind explore possibilities. Step 4: Evaluate and Prioritize Alternatives Once you've generated a list of ideas, evaluate and prioritize them based on how well they align with the future outcomes you desire. Consider factors like feasibility, potential benefits, and any potential drawbacks. Step 5: Develop an Implementation Plan Choose the best alternative from your list and create a detailed plan for implementing it. Break down the steps needed to put your chosen solution into action. Consider what resources or support you might need. Step 6: Take Action Start taking concrete steps towards implementing your chosen solution. Remember that the focus is on achieving the desired future outcomes, so stay motivated by keeping those positive outcomes in mind. Step 7: Monitor Progress and Adjust Regularly assess your progress and be willing to make adjustments to your plan if necessary. Keep your focus on the desired future outcomes, and don't get discouraged by setbacks or obstacles. This outcome-directed thinking approach can help you approach problem-solving with a more positive and forward-thinking mindset. It encourages creativity and optimism, making it easier to tackle challenges in your life. Step 2. Now write brief answers to the following questions: A. What outcome do I really want with respect to this problem? (Your answer equals your desired result about the problem.) B. How will I know when I have achieved this future outcome? (What will I see, hear, and feel?) C. What resources do I need to pursue this future outcome? D. What is the first step I can take to achieve this outcome? Guide line for step 2 Certainly, let's address these questions for your identified problem: A. What outcome do I really want with respect to this problem? Desired Outcome: I want to improve my time management skills to reduce stress and increase productivity. B. How will I know when I have achieved this future outcome? I will know I've achieved this outcome when I consistently complete my tasks on time, feel less overwhelmed, and have more free time for personal activities and relaxation. C. What resources do I need to pursue this future outcome? Resources needed: Time management tools (e.g., a planner or digital calendar). Educational resources or courses on time management. Support from friends or family to help me stay accountable. D. What is the first step I can take to achieve this outcome? The first step is to research and choose a time management method or tool that suits my needs, whether it's a digital app, a physical planner, or a specific time management technique. Step 3. In a group of three to five students, take turns sharing your answers to these four questions. In addition, share what you are feeling about your desired outcome for the problem. For example, do you feel that you have created the beginning of a solution that you can implement? In addition, share whether your thinking is more creative and effective by focusing on achieving a desired outcome rather than on the cause of the problem Guide line for step 3. Since I can't interact with a group of students directly, I'll provide you with an example of how one student might share their answers and feelings about their desired outcome for a problem: Student 1: "For my problem of feeling overwhelmed with school assignments, my desired outcome is to improve my time management skills. I'll know I've achieved it when I consistently meet deadlines and have more free time. To pursue this outcome, I'll need a digital calendar and some online resources on time management. My first step is to research and choose a suitable time management tool. As for my feelings, I do feel like I've created the beginnings of a solution by identifying what I want to achieve and how I'll measure success. Focusing on the desired outcome has made me feel more optimistic and motivated. Instead of dwelling on why I'm overwhelmed, I'm thinking creatively about how to improve, which feels more effective." In a group setting, each student would share their responses similarly, discussing their specific problem, desired outcome, how they'll measure success, needed resources, and their feelings about this approach. This collaborative sharing can lead to a better understanding of different perspectives and potentially generate more creative solutions to everyone's problems.
