Career and Business Lessons from the Rubik's Cube

Remember the Rubik's cube? If you do, you know it was this addictive puzzle that caught our attention in the late 70's.  I could not put it down and spent hours trying to figure it out. My answer came in the form of Gabbie Naranjo.  Gabbie was a classmate.  She, along with all of her five siblings, knew how to solve the magic cube.  I begged her incessantly to teach me and she obliged.  She and I were the only nerds in 10th grade that knew the code. Those were the days.

If you are too young to remember the Rubik's Cube, do not despair.  It is back!  On January 13, Dan Dzoan solved the Rubik's Cube in 17.9 seconds...one handed. He set a new world record. (To see a short video clip with clues to solve the Cube, click here. There is a 30 second commercial before the clip).

So, what career and business lessons can we learn from the Rubik's Cube?

• Learn to address problems in a systematic way.  Fear, anger and stress do not help accomplish goals. As difficult as a goal or project may seem, there is always a way to approach it.  Break it down into smaller steps and you will get closer to the goal. 
• Find out who knows the answer and ask for help.  You may realize that the challenges in front of you are not as difficult once there is someone in your corner.  Going to someone who has figured out your dilemna or can get help you address it more effectively will save you time and energy.  These can then be redirected to other goals.
• Most likely, there are others who may be going through the same experience.  Find them. Sometimes they are already organized as in the case of affinity or support groups or professional organizations.
• Once you have learned to solve your 'puzzle,' share that knowledge with others....unless, of course, you are aiming to become a world champion!

Comments

[Whitney Johnson]

Love this entry Anna -- such a great object lesson and fun to learn more about you!

[Air Jordan shoes]

It is crucial to look beyond your goals for your time in the past and examine your purpose in life. Which you’ll have a lifetime.