"一般原则是解决方案不必以你所看到的形式出现"

Sometimes, when we’re trying to solve a problem, we get fixated on finding a solution that looks a certain way. We get stuck thinking the answer has to match our initial expectations or appear similar to what we’ve seen before. But the truth is, solutions can come in many forms, often surprising us in their simplicity or creativity. That’s the core idea here—you don’t need your solution to look like what you initially imagined.

Think back to the early 20th century, a time when people were trying to solve the problem of long-distance communication. The telephone had been invented, but it was still evolving. Imagine if the inventors had insisted that the solution had to look like a traditional telegraph machine—clunky and wired. Instead, they let go of that idea and embraced new technologies. This mindset led to the creation of the mobile phone, a device that looks nothing like a telegraph but solved the problem in a far more efficient and versatile way.

Now, picture this: You're part of a team at work, tasked with improving customer satisfaction. The immediate thought might be to look at the usual suspects—better customer service training, quicker response times, or maybe a new customer management software. But let’s pull back a bit. What if the solution doesn’t have to be a direct tweak to customer service? What if it involves something less obvious, like improving the work environment for your employees? Happier employees could lead to more natural, positive interactions with customers, thus boosting satisfaction more effectively than any new software ever could.

So, how do you apply this wisdom in your life? Start by questioning your assumptions. When faced with a problem, jot down your initial thoughts on how to solve it, then challenge those thoughts. Ask yourself, "What if the solution looks completely different?" Be open to brainstorming and wild ideas. Sometimes the best solutions are the ones that seem a bit out there at first glance.

Imagine you’re trying to save money for a big vacation. The obvious solutions might be cutting out daily lattes or eating out less. But what if the real answer is in picking up a side hustle doing something you love? Maybe you’re great at painting—start selling your artwork online. The extra cash could accumulate faster than the small savings from skipping coffee. Plus, you’ll enjoy the process more.

Here’s a relatable story: a friend of mine, Sarah, was struggling to find time for her passion—writing—while working a demanding job. She initially looked for solutions in time management apps and stricter schedules. Nothing worked. Then, she switched gears. Instead of thinking she had to write in big chunks of time, she started writing in ten-minute bursts during her commute. It didn't look like the typical "sit down and write" session, but it worked. She finished her first novel that way.

Remember, the solution doesn’t have to look like what you see. It’s a liberating principle. Letting go of preconceived notions opens up a world of possibilities. Whether it’s in technology, business, or personal goals, think outside the box—your breakthrough might be waiting just around the corner, disguised in a form you’d never expect.