Problem-solve like a rock climber. Moreover, problem-solve like a rock-climbing champion with a no-quit mentality. I discovered this inspiration from a children’s book featured on NPR several weeks ago. The author is Ashima Shiraishi, a nineteen-year-old world champion rock climber from New York City, NY. Her book intends to teach kids the process of solving problems in a similar way a rock climber would. When I listened to the article, I knew I wanted the book in my collection of children’s books that are also teachable moments for adults.
A No-Quit Mentality Like a Rock Climber
From the dedication and introductory comments to the end of the book, the words articulate growth mindset thinking.
In the world of rock climbing and bouldering, a boulder is called a problem. The author describes the problem as “making them mine.” In other words, problem-solving is about embracing the whole challenge and owning the solution, working through it to the end.
I am Ashima. What I do is climb. What I do is solve problems, which is to say, I make them mine.
Ashima Shiraishi, How to Solve a Problem
Problem-solving is learning to look at the whole picture and seek the solutions in the steps. One of the helpful ways to do this is by leveraging a no-quit mentality, primarily through the falls and setbacks. Falling is part of the bouldering process in rock-climbing as well as a part of problem-solving in most aspects of life. What you do with the obstacle determines your path to the solution and success.
Two Steps to Problem-Solving with a No-Quit Mentality
Two key messages emerge from the book, where I see two essential steps to problem-solving.
- Visualization. Read or examine the problem from beginning to end. Study the problem and what it takes to solve it in its totality. See the whole solution in your mind. Mentally map the steps from start to finish. Visualize all the steps to get you through the problem.
- Learn from the mistakes. Falling happens – deal with it. Don’t stress over making a mistake. Falling will happen. Learn from each misstep. Every fall is teaching you something about the solution.
A no-quit mentality consists of visualizing the problem, addressing the issue, making it your own, and working it. Learn from the failures, the setbacks, and the obstacles along the way. The fall is communicating something to you about the solution. Get back up. Listen. Learn. Visualize again. Keep going.
The Superpower of a No-Quit Mentality
In the introduction to the book, Christopher Myers, the creative director of the book’s publisher, Make Me a World, best summarizes the result of a no-quit mentality.
Being the best in the world is made of countless hours in the gym. It’s made of mistakes and falls. It’s the discipline and care, and the time it takes to go back to that wall and try again. The ability to try again after falling – that is what it takes to be great. That might be Ashima’s greatest superpower.
Christopher Myers, Introduction, How to Solve a Problem
Summary
The book includes stunning illustrations woven together with an inspiring story. I love the dedication of the illustrator, who captures the essence of the story.
For my grandmothers, who showed me that creativity and perseverance can make all the difference.
Yao Xiao, Dedication, How to Solve a Problem
Problem-solving involves both creativity and perseverance, as well as a lot of self-patience in owning the process. Visualize the solution to the problem. See yourself working through the problem. Learn from the failures. Get up and keep working the problem each time you fall.
Most of all, trust your instincts. Take the time to pause and learn from the mistake, then go after the problem again. Do not beat yourself up for failing. Everyone fails. Failure only really happens if you give up and quit the process. Bouldering and rock climbing teach you to see setbacks as an opportunity to learn something about the process.
Your turn
What is your mental approach to solving problems? How do you stay focused and determined? What is your superpower?
I welcome your comments.
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