CAREER DEVELOPMENT, GOALS, SUCCESS UNIVERSITY

Problems occur as a natural consequence of human life.

Often times, people get into deeper troubles when trying to solve problems. On a positive note, problems make one’s life exciting and these define a person’s character. One can take a positive view towards approaching his problems, but he should always face his problems in the right way.

Some people tend to block off their problems or hide and wait for these problems to disintegrate in thin air. Some people resort to the use of alcohol (or perhaps illegal drugs) to "forget" their problems. Perhaps drinking a couple of beers will help one think of a bright solution but it’s as far as drinking will take him. Implementing the plan to solve a problem requires additional elements.

Here are some tips on how to take on one’s problem and be able to effectively resolve it:

1. Use your observational skills

This basic step is thought in primary school and can be applied in the real-life scenario. Many people tend to forget this primary step in solving a problem.

Carefully observe the implications of a certain problem and try to infer on its possible causes. This move will give you a more comprehensive view of the whole scenario that is essential towards arriving at a holistic solution.

2. Dissect the problem and search for the root cause

Problems may present themselves as a consequence or the root of other problems. It is best that you target the main cause of the problem. This way, all the other problems that come along with it can be solved as well. Make sure that the problem that you are trying to address is the root and not the consequence. Problems are like weeds. Unless you take out the roots, these will just keep coming back to hunt you.

3. Maximize resources

Problems will vary in nature and therefore, the approaches will vary. However, problem solving will always involve the use of resources. Resources will not always refer to physical resources, but to one’s capacities in delivering results. Choose an approach that matches your resources.

4. Seek many choices

Always look at all the choices and alternatives available. Aristotle tells us that there should always be a third choice when addressing a problem. A problem is never exclusively in black or white. There will always be gray areas. If you only have two choices, think harder.

5. Maintain a positive attitude

Failure is bound to happen some times. However, when a problem is not solved, do not ever lose hope especially if you did your best. Some solutions are never meant to work or perhaps the problem will be solved by another individual. What matters most are the lessons that you will learn in trying to solve the said problem.

A journey contains experiences that can never be encountered in the destination. Life itself is a journey and troubles are part of this journey.

Losing one’s battles every once in a while is normal but you should always remember the lessons that you learn from each battle and come back stronger the next time around.

Posted by Leon Edward at 06:25 PM | Permalink

Chess is a game that brings infinite promises for your mind. Chess can increase mental capabilities by bringing into play critical thinking, concentration, problem solving, abstract reasoning, strategic planning, pattern recognition, analysis, creativity, evaluation, synthesis, etc.

Chess can effectively be utilized as a medium to teach problem solving, abstract reasoning, as well as decision-making.

Learning how to make decisions is more essential than knowing the solution to a problem. In chess, the old and young alike learn to efficiently analyze a given situation by concentrating on important aspects by eliminating interruptions. Chess also teaches decision-making and strategic thinking. It encourages people to make creative solutions and implement the plan of action.

Years of research have shown that by playing chess, a child improves his academic performance. In most cases, self-assurance leads to better school grades through the following:

1) Playing chess familiarizes a child on the modality strength, which is an essential part of decision-making.

2) Playing chess presents an opportunity to practice problem solving.

3) Chess offers instantaneous rewards and punishments for every decision made.

4) Chess forms a thinking pattern that when faithfully used brings about success. Chess-playing individuals are accustomed to searching for more alternatives in their decision-making process.

5) Competition cultivates interest and fosters mental alertness that generally results to correct decision path.

Furthermore, a learning atmosphere organized around chess games has been found to have a constructive affect on a person’s attitudes concerning learning and decision-making. Therefore, this moving dimension works as a catalyst for cognitive accomplishment.

A significant component to critical thinking and decision-making in chess relates to the process of evaluation wherein the position of strength is evaluated.

In fact, beginners often place important attention on the material.

Material may influence who wins in the game of chess. However, many plans are required and necessary in order to come up with an objective and constructive evaluation of your own and opponent’s position. Here is where decision-making is critical.

Most advanced chess players discover a balance in their entire evaluation course. These are the design plan of pawn structure, material, central control, space, king safety, maneuverability, development of chess pieces, and initiative.

The brain internalizes these values by leading the chess player to set a logical decision, which are crucial in calculating his own position. Chess teaches many skills that can be also useful into other aspects of life.

For instance, the game trains a person to carefully plan his decision, visualize situations, and evaluate his decision before making a move. Chess also teaches the significance of patience.

In life, as well as in the game of chess, what is considered as a "good decision" is not defined by its outcome but by the diligent effort exerted.

Posted by Leon Edward at 08:16 PM | Permalink