Knots and Threads

Some situations are like knots, with lots of elements interwoven in a chaotic manner that have become tight. It is then hard to distinguish among the parts. They are hard to work with, and not so useful. We all know knots.

And sometimes we want to undo the knot, to have a useful piece or pieces of rope or string we can use. The first step? Have a good look and see what you can distinguish. Figure out a way to begin to loosen it so you can pull the individual threads. As you pull one, others also loosen. And on you go.

This image is helpful when presented with a situation that seems all balled up, often triggering frustration and irritation, maybe inspiring blame, and possibly even raising the question of whether the entire thing ought to be thrown out. An underperforming division? Technical challenges? Staff friction? An onslaught of competition? Lack of profitability?

 Start by having a good hard look at the situation and figuring out what the threads are. What can you loosen to better understand and gain perspective? What is so closely interwoven you don’t want to separate? What about that question of simply saying no or being done and walking away? You won't know until you get into it and make an honest assessment of the situation.

Sound familiar? Want some help?