Three Problem Solving Traits of Indiana Jones
Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny is struggling to make money in movie theatres around the world because it’s fine, not awesome. The film follows Harrison Ford’s iconic, world-saving, colonially/neo-colonially-problematic, whip-slinging, problem solving character and his estranged goddaughter, Helena…
The Value of Interdisciplinary and Cross-functional Thinking
Nearly a decade ago I wrote this book review for Active History (reposted below). The idea was for academic books to be reviewed by non academics. While my review holds up okay, I want to underscore the idea that interdisciplinary…
Three Strategies for Effective Brainstorming
Creating an Awesome Brainstorm I love brainstorming. Whether we’re planning a camping trip, riffing on hilarious “what if?!” scenarios, solving a complex technical problem or strategizing for the upcoming school year, the creative exercise of collecting ideas is one of…
Seven Innovation Lessons from The Martian
A few weeks ago, I listened to The Rewatchables team discuss The Martian. So, then I re-watched the movie. Obviously. The story of marooned astronaut Mark Watney, played perfectly by Matt Damon, is chock full of creativity, problem solving, and…
Balancing Work and Life in Transition
When you transition to a new role in work or life, be it taking on a new job or becoming a parent, your daily schedule and priorities can be thrown into a tizzy. It can feel overwhelming and this feeling…
Five Professional Lessons from Back to the Future
Back to the Future is an American cinematic classic. The story of Marty McFly traveling through time to the year 1955 (and then into the future) in a tricked out DeLorean time machine has got everything: cool sci-fi premise, great acting…
Six Strategies for Solving Big Problems
In our professional lives, we’re frequently confronted with difficult decisions whose scope and complexity can be overwhelming. Big problems can place you in organizational paralysis. Here are six strategies for breaking out of that stasis to solve big problems effectively…
Five Tips for Managing Multiple Problems
Most of us struggle from time to time to “hold it together” when surrounded by multiple issues, worries and problems. In these circumstances it’s not unusual to feel overwhelmed and helpless. There’s no easy solution to these feelings and each…
Assessing the Impact of a Policy or Program on the Mental Health of a Population
There are many definitions of mental health promotion that have been put forward by organizations, governments, and individuals from around the world. While all similar, there are some important differences that impact how mental health promotion is understood and practiced. One of my favourite definitions is this one: the “actions taken to maximize the mental health and wellbeing of populations by improving social, physical and economic environments; and strengthening the understanding and skills of individuals in ways that support their efforts to achieve and maintain mental health” (Victorian Government Department of Health, 2010).