Finding the Skilled Helper Inside Us All
In life and in business, problems form the basis of pretty much all our lives. Unless we are Buddhist hidden away from society, we all encounter problems that need to be addressed on a daily basis. For some of us, problems are something we thrive on, but for the majority of people, problems are something that cause deep stress and anxiety. This article has been written with these problem in mind – so that when a problem does arise, the skilled helper in all of us is able to deal with it in the most effective way possible.
So how do you find this illusive skilled helper? It is not easy, but you need to hone in on a concept called ‘positive psychology’ which in very basic terms looks at turning problems into opportunities; seeing that if something is wrong, then it can be fixed and the process of this fixing can be hugely therapeutic for all involved. There have been various publications based on this idea, for example the works of Gerard Egan, Professor Emeritus, Loyola University of Chicago. It, like others, focuses on a self healing approach to dealing with clients and the problems that arise in conjunction with them.
In order to find this skilled helper, it is recognised that problems are solved as part of a team, rather than an individual. While positive psychology might seem individual-based, its success relies on the fact that problems are best solved by way of collaborative effort, not one person imposing their will on others. This ultimately lightens the load on those who have to solve problems, because the stress is spread around and more minds are brought together in order to solve a problem. It is true to say, then, that several minds are better than one.
While business is often mentioned in relation to positive psychology, it is also true to say that your own skilled helper can come out in whatever part of society or the economy you are in. Perhaps your problems arise in a hospital or an educational institute, or perhaps they do arise within a business environment. In all cases, problems share common attributes. This means that skills acquired in one area of life can be transferred to another with relative ease.
There are various publications, such as those by Egan, which can help with what in this article we have referred to as finding the skilled helper. This helper is you, and you hold the key to its power.
Gino Hitshopi is highly experienced in the realm of Egan and the skilled helper, having worked in the motivational industry for many years. For more information please visit: http://edu.cengage.co.uk/catalogue/product.aspx?isbn=0495604313