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Resource Library : Problem Solving : Controlled Outcomes Through Planning

Controlled Outcomes Through Planning

In life, there are circumstances we have control over and others we do not. It is the circumstances that happen where we have no control that can be unsettling.  In these cases, there are things we can do to help prepare for the outcome to the best of our ability.

Below is a series of stages and questions to help you think through what you can control in events where someone else holds much of the control.  
 
STAGE ONE: Current Circumstances
  1. In your own words, describe the event.
  2. Who are the stakeholders (people involved)?
  3. Is there a part of the event that you currently have control over? If yes, explain the control you have.
  4. What can’t you control?
  5. What are your current priorities and how do they impact the event? 
 
STAGE TWO: Attitude
  1. Attitude has a huge impact on how we deal with events. What is your attitude towards this event – positive or negative?
  2. Is your attitude affecting you or your team’s performance? How?
  3. If your attitude is affecting others negatively, what changes can you make to have a more positive impact on the event?
 
STAGE THREE: Research & Facts
  1. What facts / information do you need to collect regarding the event to make an informed decision?
  2. Are others providing their opinions as facts and can the facts be verified?
  3. What unresolved questions do you have regarding the event? Who (experts / individuals) can provide answers and information to these questions?
  4. Do you understand the implications of the situation?
 
STAGE FOUR: Formulate A Plan
  1. When formulating a plan, it can be helpful to start with the end in mind. Skip ahead to STAGE FIVE (page 4) and answer the question on “What success looks like” first. This will help you to formulate a plan by taking the larger goal and breaking it down into smaller steps.   
  2. Based upon your current priorities, what are your current options in addressing the event?
  3. Are there deadlines that have to be met? Please identify and explain.
  4. Identify 3 steps that can be taken to help you reach your goal.
  5. Is your plan feasible and realistic? Explain.
  6. If others are involved, can you reach a common agreement to the outcome? If not, is there a compromise that can be made?
  7. What resources are needed to reach your desired outcome?
  8. How will you celebrate your successes along the way to maintain momentum?
 
STAGE FIVE:  Desired Outcome / Goal
What is the ultimate outcome you would like to achieve? Describe success.
What stops you from reaching this outcome right now?
What happens if you don’t reach your desired outcome if different from what you expected? (I don’t understand the previous sentence.) Are there alternative solutions?
Once you reach your desired outcome, is there a follow-up plan that needs to be put in place?  If so, what needs to be done and how will you accomplish this?
 
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