How Simple?

Are you tired of how something works?  Want to make a change for the better? There is no time like the present to do so.  We need to accept that until you take a stab at fixing what bothers you, that item will just continue to be an annoyance.  If you are staying home anyway, why not be a little productive. Changing something for the better is a good act that will exercise the mind and help take your thoughts off other, less appealing, matters.

Remember, I told you earlier this week,  we have a fabulous computer, and it usually has a less than stellar memory system?  That is true.  Therefore, I suggest we start with some paper and writing implements.  Find a writing pad or notebook, some pens, pencils, markers, or whatever you are comfortable using.  The use of a computer, smartphone, or tablet is also encouraged for doing research, talking to mentors, and mock-up drawings.

Start by writing about what it is you want to change, make better, or invent.  Use the five W’s (who, what, when, where, why, and how).  Try to give an overall view of what you want to do and specifics on how the change will work.  Your work, at this point,  does not need to be perfect, just do the best you can, as you work through this, things will change.

Do your research.  Identify not only how your ideas will improve the task, why will it improve the lives of others? When will people use this new item or technique? And what the positive differences are, and how these differences will benefit others?  You can set out with some theories and then prove them as you go.

Please don’t be surprised if your idea takes several tries and revisions to get right.  Remember the vast number of tests Thomas Edison went through to settle on tungsten as the filament for the light bulb.  The trick is not to give up.  If you believe in something, continue on until you have the right solution.

Thank you for being with me today. I hope to be with you again tomorrow.

Author: Mike Balof

A retired Air Force Master Sergeant, Mike used to lay in bed at night and worry about what would happen if his plant closed or found himself without a job. One day his plant closed. Rather than panic and hysteria (OK, maybe a little) Mike found himself carried away on the adventure of his life. Mike started with the best job he ever had working at Home Depot. He spent 8 years working with job seekers at a local workforce center, helping them to find employment. He then started his own company developing courses, writing books and urging others to follow their own paths into the future. Mike holds a Master of Arts in Adult Education and Training and a Bachelor of Business Management, earned through the University of Phoenix and an AAS degree in Electronics Systems Technology from the Community College of the Air Force. Mike is a member of the Delta Mu Delta Business Honor Society. View all posts by Mike Balof