Problem-Solving

A father died and left his three sons his camels. The division of the father’s estate was set: son 1 got one-half, son 2 got one-third, and son 3 got one-ninth. At the time of his death, the father had 17 camels. You can’t easily divide 17 camels by two, three, or nine. They couldn’t find a way, together, to get over the hump. (That was a really bad pun, I know.)

Does this problem stump you, too?

Can you imagine their predicament? Their father just died, their emotions are high, and they need to figure out this problem.

How would you go about solving it?

High usage of emotional intelligence in problem-solving is the ability to find solutions to problems in situations where emotions are involved and to understand how emotions impact decision making. It’s associated with being conscientious, disciplined, methodical, and systematic in persevering and approaching problems. It is a desire to do one’s best and to confront problems, rather than avoid them.

Emotionally intelligent problem solving allows us to work through each of the following basic problem-solving steps regardless of the emotions involved:

1. Define the problem statement

2. Generate multiple solutions through brainstorming and innovative thinking

3. Evaluate alternatives by weighing the pros and cons of each

4. Choose the best option

5. Implement your solution

6. Assess the outcome

The three sons couldn’t figure it out either so they went to a wise woman in a nearby village. Unfortunately, she couldn’t help them. However, she told them she owned a camel and she would give it to them. They now had 18 camels. They tried it again. Son 1 got half of the camels, nine. Son 2 got one-third of the camels, six. And Son 3 got one-ninth of the camels, two. That’s a total of 17 camels. They gave the one leftover camel back to the wise woman.

The sons may or may not have used my problem-solving steps, but they did solve their problem! What did the sons do right? They kept seeking solutions. And, they sought outside help when they got stumped. Turns out they didn’t really need it, but it actually led to the solution. What problem do you need help solving today?

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Susan Rozzi is the president of Rozzi and Associates, a leadership and organizational development company helping good leaders become great! Our programs start with the premise that great leadership skills are a product of time, practice and focused development. Our leadership development, emotional intelligence insight and career management programs can be customized to meet your desired outcomes and needs. Contact Susan at susan@rozziandassociates.com.