The Right Answer is Always a Better Question
Throughout engineering, life, art or in business we are always looking for ways to improve. High hurdles, roadblocks and red tape can be demoralizing when trying to grow. It’s important to remember that when we face challenges and setbacks it is ourselves who decide what the meaning is. It may not always be a sign to stop but rather a sign to re-assess. Sometimes this is positive sometimes negative. Let’s look at a few examples.
Taking a Different Perspective
We often hear at the end of a successful project someone saying “we tried to think outside of the box” or “we just took a different approach” but… how can we apply this in the moment?
The first step is to ask a question. Then flip the question even if it doesn’t make a ton of sense at first. Instead of “why won’t this work?” try asking “why did I expect this to work this way?”. It forces you to define your assumptions which opens up a lot of introspection. Approaching an issue like this is a way of systematically moving through the logic and becoming more aware of each step. Often the answer will present itself to you naturally.
There are many tips and tricks that will help with this practice. Below are a few examples of rephrasing that can lead to new lines of thinking.
This last question is a little tongue-in-cheek, but it makes the same point. When we are frustrated often the best method is a change in perspective. Even the same question on a different mindset can be the key.
About the Author
Robbie is a motivated, focused, and dedicated Laser Engineer at A-Laser. Robbie studied Manufacturing Systems Engineering at Glasgow Caledonian University, graduating in 2013. He then took a graduate role at Tannlin Technology in the UK where he worked on the systems team. His role included product improvement, customer assistance, system building, and engineering analysis. His five years of experience working at Tannlin, often in the field, required thinking on his feet and working with limited resources. Outside of engineering, Robbie enjoys photography, as he likes to keep a part of his life in a creative field so that he can work that muscle when he needs to. Robbie excels in roles that combine technical expertise and project coordination and strives to deliver value to customers. Robbie is highly appreciated for his client-centric approach and his ability to build strong client relationships. If you have questions or want to discuss laser technology, please reach out to Robbie!