There is always a solution to every problem. Orthodontists gear towards problem-solving, focusing on a diagnosis, problem list, treatment objectives, and a treatment plan. After many years of training and practice, the treatment planning process comes naturally to us. Although clinical challenges come at us daily in the clinic, I think few would argue that the most common problems that plague orthodontic teams are usually not clinical. Still, we deal with leading staff members, managing customer service interactions, and life problems on all the other issues.
Focus on the solution
Mindset is a key step in problem-solving. First, focus on solutions and shift the mindset from finding problems (negative) to concentrating on solutions (positive). I am certain that you will find a plethora if you seek issues. The world is full of problems, and team members can make mistakes. Patients will find something wrong with the alignment or experience. It is human nature to see what is wrong, but we need to focus on the solutions. Whenever a team member comes with their problem, expect a potential solution. If they have not made an effort to consider what can be done, how can you move forward?
Action and solutions drive the progress and resolution of the concerns presented. Sometimes these discussions can be quite positive and collaborative, but we need to continue a positive tone away from the negativity that stalls the solution process. When patients encounter issues or problems, shift the language to “let’s see what we can do about this.” Avoid getting stuck in a situation, and remember always to bring solutions to move forward.
Focus on control
What can you control? Bringing solutions to the table means focusing on what we can alter in our situation. There can be external factors that are out of our control. Finding answers can be disheartening if we focus on these since we have no control over the issue. But we can control many situations by focusing on what we can do about them. At the very least, we can control our reaction to any problem, and that basic first step often gives us the control we need to move forward and bring a solution to light. Think of relationships, personal or professional. We can control little about someone else, but we can control how we respond to them and whether or not we continue the relationship with this person. Outside influences can affect us tremendously, but we can control how we react to those influences to find a way forward.
