Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Rephrase the Problem

Einstein’s Secret to Amazing Problem Solving's first step is to rephrase the problem;
Words carry strong implicit meaning and, as such, play a major role in how we perceive a problem. In the example above, ‘be productive’ might seem like a sacrifice you’re doing for the company, while ‘make your job easier’ may be more like something you’re doing for your own benefit, but from which the company also benefits. In the end, the problem is still the same, but the feelings — and the points of view — associated with each of them are vastly different.

I've been struggling to talk about transportation without using the tired old bikes vs. cars terminology. For me this isn't about bike vs. cars. It's about everyone reaching their transportation goals and getting to their destination (or just enjoying themselves in the process)

With this in mind, I like the term "active transportation" for all modes of non-motorized travel. I'm sure I'm going to be adding to my list of terms as I work through this blog.

1 comment:

Adrienne Johnson said...

I like your approach. I try very hard to not think or talk about 'bikes and cars'. I try to speak about cyclists and drivers. Cars are machines, drivers are people, and people are what will turn all of this around.
Good luck with this endeavor. I am cheering loudly in your corner!