Just like in life, managing Equines comes with it’s fair share of problems. Whether this is specifically “problem horses”, or whether this is simply things that don’t go to plan and need action plans to solve and manage them into the future. Each of these require problem solving skills.
I think it is important to remember that when managing Equines, we need to be careful that our focus is not only on difficult behaviour displayed, and ensure that all behaviour and other factors are considered prior to decisions being made. This gives us the best chance at effectively solving problems quickly or sooner than later. Management requires immense observation and sometimes trial & error to get right, but is best persevered at than not done at all.
A great 7 step approach of problem solving, is My Compass’ and the Black Dog Institute’s ‘DOGSTAR Problem Solving Steps’. My Compass being a DIY Online Course for people to complete to support them through difficult times and/or Mental Health matters.
The ‘DOGSTAR Problem Solving Steps:
Define the problem
Concisely work out what the exact problem is. What? Who? When? Why?
Options – as many as you can
Brainstorm and list as many options of how to solve the problem at hand as possible.
Good & Bad of each option
Good ol’ Pros and Cons of each. Perhaps list these in a table next to each option.
Select an option
Choose an option to carry out. Sometimes choosing the easiest option is best. Sometimes the pro doesn’t outweigh the con enough of the easiest option, when it is compared to a more difficult option’s pro to con ratio.
Take action (carry out option)
Put the option chosen into motion! This can be nerve racking, particularly if the circumstances are high risk, or if there are Equines or other people involved, however the following steps are to come to help make this step easier for future problems.
Assess the outcome
How did the using that option to solve the problem at hand go? Good and bad?
Rewind & Review
Is the problem now solved? Does another option need to be attempted? Can this option be attempted again slightly better, to achieve a more opportune outcome? By answering these questions, one will know whether above steps need to be repeated until the problem is solved, or if the problem has been resolved.
When managing Equines it can be beneficial in the review process to assess how to prevent or minimise this problem occurring again. Of course sometimes decisions have to made on the spot, and there is very little time to allow for writing lists to assist with what actions need to be taken. However by doing this to assist with solving problems that can be decided over 20 mins and up, the practice of using this approach will help to encourage your mind to be able think effectively and rationally during any problem needing to be solved in the future.
For further information about the My Compass DIY Online course, check out www.mycompass.gov.au. The skills learnt through this course can be useful not only in the Equine World, but also in life. As Equestrians we know that there are lots of problems we face in our Industry, and in our personal lives everyday; so anything to effectively help us is very welcome.
Feature Image courtesy of walldevil.com
– Skye Pickering Dip. Horse Business Management