The Power of Observation — Being a Problem Solver
In the 90s, Legendary tennis player Andre Agassi lost his first three matches against another Legend — Boris Becker. Then, after watching some matches, Agassi understood that Becker showed where he was going to serve by moving his tongue. The real deal was Agassi was using this knowledge when it was necessary, at critical points in the match. After all retirement, at Oktoberfest in Germany, Agassi confessed his hack about Becker serves. Becker was shocked by Agassi’s confession. He explained to him that he was talking to his wife all about Agassi was reading his mind.
Agassi got this advantage from his observation skills and using this knowledge in the right place. It shows us how important the observation process at problem-solving.
The power of observing would be a major goal
Every day, we are dealing with issues. Some of them; phone charger cable not being able to reach the bed, wi-fi signal is always weak at comfy places, forget where you parked at the mall, and when you have vital meeting internet service provider down. Long story short, we are overcoming all of these somehow; first-world problems. And, Understanding the problem would be the first-world solution.
There are numerous methods and techniques for problem-solving. In every method, these are linked with observations, empathy, and understand others. If you have a systematic problem there are pragmatic solution and methods like;
- Design Thinking —The First phase is Observation,
- 8D — Second Step (2D) you are defining your problems due to observation,
- A3 —” Current Condition” the clarification the status to convey the meaning to other people
- DMAIC — (D)Define is understanding the problem with observation
All of these problem-solving methods start with a foundation of good observation. This notion would also great starting point in our attitude to our professional and private life.
Key Take Away
Andre Agassi learned to beat Boris Becker just by watching his tongue. That is why sometimes a solution is simple as it is and waits to be found. Just Observe it and Use it!
Special Note: Here is the hack, you can listen to from Andre Agassi too!
