What do you do if your task prioritization is hindering optimal problem-solving?

Task priorities v. problem-solving: a false dichotomy! Tasks are discrete, completable activities. There are well-understood approaches to prioritising such as MoSCoW and the important v. urgent matrix. Problem-solving is a much more intangible activity. You can use prioritising methods to decide which and when the problems should be addressed *but* it isn't obvious the effort and success criteria to apply. Understand the nature of the problem: - Tame - Messy - Wicked - Wicked Mess Tame->Messy - more system, task, technical complexity Tame->Wicked - more people, behavioural complexity Now consider the resources required to solve the problem and, if Messy or Wicked take an agile project approach.

Quando a priorização de tarefas começa a atrapalhar a solução ideal de problemas, adoto uma abordagem inovadora chamada "Prioridade de Impacto Inverso." Em vez de seguir o caminho tradicional de resolver primeiro as tarefas mais urgentes ou mais fáceis, avalio quais problemas, quando solucionados, terão o maior impacto positivo no sistema como um todo, mesmo que sejam mais complexos ou menos imediatos. Utilizo ferramentas de visualização de dados e análise preditiva para identificar esses pontos de alto impacto e aloco recursos estrategicamente, criando um equilíbrio entre resolver problemas urgentes e investir naqueles que proporcionam benefícios sustentáveis a longo prazo.

With my work in RCM and Coding Manager, if I struggle with my priorities, the best way I know to overcome this is to step back a bit and change the way I think about what I am obligated to and what the expectations are. Most times, getting out of my own way and just changing the way I look at the big picture, will allow me to refocus and keep moving. Failure has never been an option so you work harder, more efficient, and sometimes re-examine the process.

1. What is the goal here? 2. What are you trying to achieve? 3. What will success look like to you? 4. What will success look like to people involved (stakeholders)? Now, ask yourself, "Is what I am doing moving me TOWARDS or AWAY from the goal?", and you've got your answer.

Tim Ferriss, who's a wizard when it comes to developing effective systems and learning from others, asks, at the end of the day, which completed tasks will make me feel like my day was successful and productive? In my experience, clients find this question remarkably clarifying, in that doing the one the thing you keep avoiding will result in peace at the end of the day.

Identifying blocks in your problem-solving process is like untangling a messy ball of yarn. It’s not about what tasks you’re doing, but why they’re tripping you up. Step back and ask yourself: are outdated assumptions or lack of resources to blame? Dive deep into the root causes by using techniques like the "5 Whys." This method helps uncover the real issues, making it easier to streamline your priorities. I challenge you to dedicate an hour this week to perform a thorough analysis of your task list and identify at least three major blocks that are hindering your efficiency. Let’s turn those knots into smooth threads.

As an executive coach, I often encounter clients experiencing roadblocks in their problem-solving abilities. A common cause? Skill and resource gaps that hinder progress on vital tasks. A powerful exercise for overcoming this is reassessment. Pause, reflect and analyze the tasks in question. Are outdated assumptions affecting their priority? Dig deeper into the reasons behind tasks that linger at the bottom of your list. Gaining such insights will not only strengthen your prioritization skills but also pave the way for enhanced problem-solving and leadership growth. Remember, self-awareness enables progress.

To better understand and overcome obstacles in problem-solving, apply the "5 Whys" technique to drill down to the root cause of repeated issues. This method helps reveal underlying challenges that may affect task prioritization and efficiency, enabling more targeted and effective solutions.

This intro covers my best advice on this topic. Know your team’s strengths and desires for more responsibility. Delegate small projects, as expectations are met/exceeded you can hand more complex and time sensitive projects. Having a clear understanding of what your team’s abilities are ,communicate frequently and be positive. Not everyone wants to be an overachiever and that’s ok. If they meet their goals and quality they are just as valuable. My favorite saying, you cannot succeed alone, success comes from the team as a whole, every member is valued and positive reinforcement comes from leadership. No one person succeeds alone. Shine a light on all those who demonstrate a commitment to the company, project, or leadership.

To optimize delegation as an executive, consider using a delegation matrix that categorizes tasks based on their importance and the skill levels required. This tool helps you systematically identify which responsibilities to delegate and to whom, ensuring a good match between task demands and team capabilities. Additionally, establish regular check-ins and feedback loops to support your team members in their new responsibilities, enhancing both trust and accountability in the process.

If your task prioritization is hindering optimal problem-solving, it's time to master the art of delegation. Start by identifying which tasks can be delegated based on the complexity and the skill set required. Empower your team members by entrusting them with these responsibilities and provide the necessary support and resources. I challenge you to delegate at least two significant tasks this week to team members who show potential but haven’t been fully utilized. Watch how this not only frees up your time for high-impact problem-solving but also cultivates a more capable and motivated team. Remember, delegation is a win-win when done wisely.

Picture this: you're juggling tasks, but critical problems keep slipping through. The culprit? Poor prioritization. It's time to get ruthless with time management. Carve out non-negotiable "focus blocks" for high-priority tasks. No email, no interruptions. Just you, tackling issues that move the needle. Schedule these blocks when you're at your sharpest. Guard this time fiercely. Let your team know you're unreachable. And as you protect this time, watch as your problem-solving powers soar. It's not about working harder, but smarter. So, embrace the art of time-blocking, and become the master of your own productivity.

Time management is not just about efficiency; it's about strategic leadership. By mastering time-blocking, leaders can ensure their focus aligns with their vision, driving transformative change and maximizing profits. Intelligent solutions in time management empower leaders to navigate complexities with agility, fostering growth and operational excellence.

Constant, accountability requires you to keep a written list of each days and each weeks (deliverables), expect disruptions with your plan and flow with your positive perspective. we must know the exact skill set of our team members. 1. Establish a baseline for all employees, monitor, provide feedback, keep monitoring. 2. Establish in your grid of employees, who has advanced skills and mastered their own deliverables. These are your first delegates. Monitor closely with newly learned skills. Communication is paramount and does initially take more time but outcomes are measurable once you establish new goals. 3. You have to be the influence for change management via your attitude, positive communication. You set the tone for excellence.

Flexibility in strategy is paramount for leaders aiming to maximize operational performance and drive transformative change. Embracing tools like the Eisenhower Matrix or the Pareto Principle can provide intelligent solutions to prioritize effectively, ensuring that your team remains agile and focused on high-impact tasks. Remember, adaptive leadership is the cornerstone of navigating modern business landscapes and unlocking unparalleled success.