Greene - Stop guessing: the 9 behaviors of great problem solvers

Stop Guessing presents a way of tackling hard problems. It is not a recipe bookrather, it identifies a set of behaviors that are essential to be successful at cracking those problems that do not readily submit to guessing as a viable solution. These behaviors are not difficult to learn but are essential when dealing with those frustrating challenges. No, you will not work miracles, but some might think that you do! This book is now on my reading list for all my students, as it will enable them to be more effective in their future careers.

Malcom McCulloch, Professor, Engineering Science, University of Oxford

Id recommend this book to anyone involved in industrial problem solving. This approach should help readers get to the right answer quickly and with much less wasted effort.

Tim Ridgman, Course Director, Institute for Manufacturing, University of Cambridge

Having known Nat for fifteen years, I know he possesses a deep passion for solving problems, especially those more difficult and previously unsolved. In Stop Guessing he addresses the worthy cause and power of leveraging our human capital and capability to convert from firefighting to proactive and permanent solutions by leveraging peoples potential as problem solvers. He effectively addresses the inhibitors to and realities of owning and embracing the solution. He embraces the art of the possible.

Greg Smith, Executive Vice President, Supply Chain, US, Wal-Mart Stores Inc.

I am so in awe of how Nats mind works to create solutions to really challenging issues. I am so glad he took the time to share what he knows with us through Stop Guessing.

Diana Chapman, coauthor of The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership and cofounder of the Conscious Leadership Group

Vigorous, optimistic, and approachable. Nat shows us a robust approach that can empower people to take a confident, active role in solving problems. Readers who master this approach will save time and money and improve their self-esteem.

Dan Rosenthal, Radiologist, Massachusetts General Hospital

If you love endless meetings, excuses, and doing your best or simply want to cement your status quo, buy another book. If you want to solve complex problems, buy this one.

Bernard Rzepka, CEO, Industrial Firm

Greenes framework is an essential arrow to have in your quiverwhether you are battling weather in the Himalayas or hostile takeovers in the boardroom.

Patrick Sweeney, Adventurer and Three-Time CEO

I see the challenges described in this book all the time, at every level of business. Its a no-brainer to teach these behaviors to people: they will be much more likely to succeed where they currently struggle.

Nick Gee, Director, Leading Global Bank

Through sharing his vast experience, Nat Greene clearly shines a light on why so many problem-solving efforts fail. I highly recommend Stop Guessing for those charged with solving problems!

Clay Hood, Vice President, Supply Chain, North Atlantic Consumer Products Company (retired)

Throughout history, science has continued to reveal that the human mind is more capable than previously imagined. In this highly approachable work, Nat Greene pushes this frontier by giving us direct access to powerful problem-solving intelligence based on adopting a set of defined behaviors. All those who read this book will find themselves empowered, living with a greater sense of ease, and amazed.

Jim Fallon, Technology Executive and Entrepreneur

Clear and concise. Nat Greene has provided expert insights from his consulting practice into how to solve daily problemshis how-to bible is a must-read for busy executives who need to stop guessing!

Susan Livingston, Partner, Banking

Rarely do books fundamentally change the way one looks at lifes headaches, but this straightforward guide empowers us with simple steps to avoid the pitfalls most encounter when struggling with a persistent challenge. Problems ranging from the enormous to the mildly annoying can be solved when employing Mr. Greenes techniques. There is nothing inherently complicated about his approach; it simply requires discipline and the willingness to resist shortcuts. I find myself newly encouraged to tackle the problems that have been riddling my life for far too long!

Mark Anderegg, CEO, Little Sprouts

STOP GUESSING

THE 9 BEHAVIORS OF GREAT PROBLEM SOLVERS

Nat Greene

Stop Guessing

Copyright 2017 by Nathaniel Greene

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First Edition
Paperback print edition ISBN 978-1-62656-986-7
PDF e-book ISBN 978-1-62656-987-4
IDPF e-book ISBN 978-1-62656-988-1

2017-1

Cover: Wes Youssi, M.80 Design

Design and production: Seventeenth Street Studios

Icons: 9Pixel Designs

Copyeditor: Laurie Dunne

Index: Richard Evans

Author photo: Rick Ashley

To dad, a great problem solving role model.

Have you ever encountered something in your life that wasnt working as well as you knew it could? Something costly, painful, or frustrating to your family or your business?

Perhaps your dishwasher doesnt dry your dishes well, and youre wasting your time hand drying them. Perhaps your business cant create enough of its product to meet customer demand. Perhaps your organizational processes are dysfunctional and unable to make good decisions. You may be trying to change bad habits in yourself or others, such as trying to eat better. Or maybe you are hoping to resolve a conflict with a colleague or loved one.

How many times have you or your organization tried to solve these hard problems and failed? How often do you build expensive workarounds, or just tolerate them as part of life? How many problems in your life have become so commonplace that you dont even notice them anymore?