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Industry: Email Alert RSS FeedIntuitive decision making and problem solving
Medical Laboratory Observer, April, 1989 by William O. Umiker
Solitude can also be effective, particularly when enhanced by listening to ocean sounds (real or recorded) or background music. Relaxation or meditation can be helpful as well. The idea is to sit quietly and do absolutely nothing for 30 to 60 minutes, relaxing completely with the eyes closed.(3) Soaking in a hot bath, taking a walk in the woods, jogging, or some other form of exercise also will help to clear the cobwebs.
Another tactic is known as paper and pencil forcing or mindstorming. 3Simply write the problem down, stating *it as succinctly as possible. Next, set a challenging quota for the number of different alternatives to be sought. This keeps you from stopping when a promising lead materializes.(1) Let your mind flow freely and jot down every possible solution that pops up. The first few may come easily, but the task will become increasingly difficult. The best answers usually come last-after you have been forced to search deeper into your subconscious.
Be sensitive to intuitive messages. We all have hunches and gut reactions and, I hope, recognize that there are good hunches and bad ones. Bad hunches are often triggered by the urge to grab the first solution that surfaces. This may be the result of an emotional or prejudicial reaction to a situation.(7) On the other hand, we may ignore or discard our instincts because of premature rational thinking.
Listen to the little whispers and pay attention to nagging doubts.' Sense when something is right or wrong and be aware that intuitive flashes most often occur while you are thinking of something else. If you're one of the fortunate few who wake up with brilliant ideas, be sure to keep a paper and pencil handy. If you fall to record the messages immediately, you may lose them. Unfortunately, the inspiration can disappear like a flash of lightning.
Flip a coin. I'm serious. When you're down to two alternatives, flipping a coin can be a great tie breaker. If you feel disappointed at what comes up-mr you have the urge to try for two out of three-your subconscious is trying to tell you something.(2)
A dual intuitive-rational approach. The first step is the generation phase in which you apply one or more of the intuitive techniques just described. Suspend judgment during this stage. If it doesn't work, try redefining the problem or making it more specific, then repeating the process.
In the selective phase, you apply your logical cognitive power to check out the intuitive messages. Use the following three questions to assess the solution:
1. Will the decision be accepted by those who must approve it, and by those who must implement it'? (The most effective solutions must possess acceptability, as well as quality and timeliness.)
2. Is there a favorable balance between reward and risk'?
3. Have you considered all the possible consequences?
Draw on the intuitive powers of others. If supervisors can tap the creative powers of staff members and of those who serve on their committees, the total intuitive power generated can sometimes be spectacular. Managers must create an atmosphere in which people are encouraged to think out loud.(6)
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