Moving From a Problem to a Goal

      Chimorel helps people solve problems and achieve goals. In every case the end effort is to set a goal, test it against reality and develop an action plan to achieve the goal. Dealing with a problem is looking at the negative side of an opportunity. If you or a client focuses on the problem, negative feelings are generated. The negative feelings suppress endorphins in the brain and lead to depression. Depression continues a downward spiral of negative feelings suppressing endorphins and more depression.

       In every problem is the seed of an opportunity. Hard to find, easy to overlook, but there. Setting a goal to find the opportunity initiates the possibility of postive feelings which release endorphins. The resulting natural high increases your resistance to pain and stress, as well as, boosting your strength and stamina. We suggest you make a genuine effort to move from a focus on a problem to setting a realistic goal. Here is a checklist of steps to help:

    1. Ask what is the real problem.
    2. Focus on one problem at a time.
    3. Deal with facts, minimize feelings.
    4. Seek information and knowledge about the situation.
    5. Take the time to develop trust, showing that you care.
    6. Don't quit, look for the opportunities behind the problem.
    7. Set a goal, test reality, develop an action plan.

       The above list should be viewed as both a check list and a series of steps. The end is to set a goal that solves the problem. You may or may not need to do every step. You will want to be very clear as to what the real problem is. You should focus on one problem, solve it and move on; otherwise, you will dissipate your energies. Use the other elements of the checklist as needed.

© The Chimorel Group 2009