Bold in Problem Solving

Welcome to The Bold Brief—

You are a member of this community of top-notch expert nurses and healthcare professionals who aspire to be “bold” in career and life.

We want to be bold in our life’s purpose and bold in life and career choices to live with authenticity, balance, and meaningful challenge.

So, bold in problem solving.

🎯Share this email with a colleague - They receive $250 in free Life & Career resources when they subscribe in September.

🆘Did you miss $250 in free Life & Career resources when you subscribed? Email [email protected] and I will send your free access link!

🗳️Don’t miss the 2 Poll Questions today!

Understanding Problem Solving

Problem solving is the process of identifying a challenge and implementing strategies to overcome it. It’s a critical skill throughout the healthcare system, where decisions often need to be made (a) quickly and with precision, and (2) strategically over the long term. Effective problem solving involves clear thinking, creativity, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. In both your professional and personal life, problem solving is key to navigating complexities and achieving your goals.¹

The Evidence to Underpinning Your Problem Solving

Research demonstrates that strong problem-solving skills lead to better outcomes in both patient care and personal life management. Studies show that individuals who actively engage in problem-solving processes are more resilient, experience lower levels of stress, and are better equipped to handle unexpected challenges. Developing problem-solving skills is not only essential for effective nursing practice but also for personal growth and success.²  

In both life and career, creative thinking enhances problem-solving abilities and leads to greater satisfaction. Organizations that foster creativity are also more likely to innovate successfully, attract and retain employees, and adapt to changes effectively.² Ultimately, creative pursuits help us engage in life and find purpose and fulfillment, crucial for a long and meaningful life. ³  

Learn how to improve your own creativity here.

A Step-by-Step Method to Problem Solve in Life & Career

The SCAMPER method is a powerful creative problem-solving technique that can be used in various contexts, including problem-solving and career ideation. The acronym SCAMPER stands for Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to another use, Eliminate, and Reverse. Here’s how each part of the SCAMPER method can be applied to both problem-solving and career ideation.

Dedicate time each week to brainstorming, using methods like the SCAMPER technique (Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to another use, Eliminate, Reverse) to rethink existing ideas and generate new ones. Record all ideas without judgment.

Exemplar - Using SCAMPER for Career Ideation

You're a mid-career nurse looking for new challenges and growth opportunities.

1. Substitute: Could you substitute clinical practice with a role in consulting, teaching, or writing?

2. Combine: Could you combine your passion for nursing with strengths in technology to transition into health informatics, HealthTech, or telehealth roles?

3. Adapt: Can you adapt your skills for a leadership or management role in a different work environment, or facility?

4. Modify: Could you modify your working hours or responsibilities to focus more on a niche area of interest like mental health or patient advocacy in the same work environment or a related environment?

5. Put to Another Use: Could you use your nursing experience in public health, policy advocacy, or even start a business related to services combining all of your strengths?

6. Eliminate: Can you eliminate aspects of your current role that you dislike by switching to a more focused specialty or freelance position?

7. Reverse: What if you reverse your path and move into an entirely new area like medical sales, education, or entrepreneurship?

Exemplar - Using SCAMPER for Workplace Problem Solving

Imagine you're a hospital leader looking to reduce patient wait times of any type.

• Substitute: Could you substitute physical appointments with telemedicine for certain non-urgent cases?

• Combine: Could you combine appointment scheduling and intake forms into one streamlined digital system?

• Adapt: Can you adapt processes from other industries, such as express checkouts from retail, to reduce wait times?

• Modify: Can you modify the waiting area experience by introducing real-time updates or entertainment to minimize perceived wait times?

• Put to Another Use: Can you use the time patients wait for forms or educational materials?

• Eliminate: Can you eliminate redundant procedures that delay the check-in process?

• Reverse: What What if you asked the patients to pre-register from home before arriving? Would it speed up the process?

Free Video Training & SCAMPER Guide

Free Video: Don’t live or work without the SCAMPER technique! Watch this short video to learn more about SCAMPER. Link

Free Guides: First download the SCAMPER Worksheet to help you learn the SCAMPER Method for your Life & Career and The Bold In Problem Solving Interview Guide.

Why This Approach Works

• Structured Thinking: Defining problems clearly and gathering information helps create a structured approach that reduces overwhelm and enhances clarity.

• Creative Solutions: Brainstorming encourages creativity, leading to more innovative and effective solutions.

• Flexibility: Monitoring and adjusting ensures that you are responsive to changes and can refine your approach as needed, leading to more successful outcomes.

Conclusion

Problem solving is an essential skill that can significantly impact your success in both your personal and professional life. By following a structured approach to problem solving, you can navigate challenges with confidence and achieve your goals in life and career more effectively.

The bold career and life that you desire is not just a dream—it's within your reach. Let's make it a reality together.

P.S. If you want to learn from me on a daily basis, connect with me on LinkedIn or in my Facebook Community.

💗P.P.S. If you find this content useful for your life, career, and happiness, please share!

Remember that this is a dedicated space for you, the nurses at the bedside and beyond, the committed healthcare professionals ready to explore transformative career paths beyond traditional roles. Every week, we'll dig into evidence-based strategies, insights, and stories designed to empower you to take bold steps toward a fulfilling career and life outside the hospital setting.

1  Real World Problem-Solving. Link

2  Exploring the role of organizational creativity and open innovation in enhancing SMEs performance. Link

3  Being Creative Makes You Happier: The Positive Effect of Creativity on Subjective Well-Being. Link