Human and the Human Animal, Part I

Several years ago, I found myself much in the same predicament as the Prodigal Son did. I couldn’t blame anyone but myself, yet I made a valiant effort to do so. In the end, I found myself driving people, solutions, and answers far away from me. Here are some character traits that I found within myself as I began the long walk back home.

The Problem Seeker

This is where I would have a solution to a problem that did not exist. In the wild, animals use their instincts to alert them to potential problems. Most of the time it works rather well, yet there are times when those same instincts have been fooled. There are times when those same instincts are used to the hunter’s advantage.

I define the term “problem seeker” in the following way: a person has a solution but no problem to apply it to. Therefore they actively go and seek the problem that will fit their solution. Even if they have to create the problem. They go from problem seeker to problem creator all in an attempt to apply a solution that may or may not work in their unique atmosphere.

The Problem Creator

By definition this is a difficult person to deal with. They don’t, of course, create the same type of problems. They just create different problems. At the center of all the trouble is them trying to custom fit the problem to their unique solution. This may be a solution that may never have been needed. To this end, they will use all types of manipulative tactics to achieve their ends.

Is this you?

The Problem you are seeking lays within your own heart, mind, body, and soul. First look deep within your own self and fix the problems there before attempting to fix other problems that may or may not exist.

Management Mistakes

One of the worst things management can do is to promote them. If Chaos seems to worsen after they have been promoted, you more than likely have promoted an intentional problem seeker/creator.

Sincerely,

David A. Kitchens