The Clever Puzzle of Innovation and Adversity: A Personal Tale of Problem Solving

One of the most clever things I've ever done—something I'm really proud of—is my decision to pivot my career from an exploration geologist to Community Relations. It was a difficult choice, but staying rational and focusing on learning a new subject from scratch was a smart move. This not only kept me in the global organization I worked for but also opened up a pathway to tackle challenges that added immense value.

From Excitement to Adversity

Life is full of challenges and unexpected twists. One day, when I was 10 years old and my parents were not home, my elder sister put me to the ultimate test. She locked me in a room to teach me a lesson about responsibility and the value of time. This moment tested my creativity and problem-solving skills.

A Childhood Innovation

Locked in the Room

When my sister locked me in another room and left only a key in the keyhole, my initial reaction was to bang and punch until she freed me. As time passed, I realized this was not the solution. I had two options: wait for my parents to return (which would be too late) or continue begging my sister (which wasn't working). I went back to the drawing board and thought for a moment. My creativity kicked in, and I remembered the artificial rose in my room.

Using Creativity to Solve the Problem

The artificial rose had a long and narrow stem. I carefully inserted it into the keyhole, and after a few minutes, the key fell out. Holding the key, I dragged the stem under the door until it reached my side and finally retrieved the key. A little more work, and I unlocked the door, thrilled to be watching my favorite show.

The Silly Moment

I was so absorbed in the show that I didn't even mind my sister's shocked reaction. She was baffled that we were in the same room. When my parents returned, my sister narrated the incident, and I confidently declared that I had superpowers to unlock the door. My dad simply laughed and said, 'Your daughter has superpowers,' but I knew that meant I was free for a few days.

A Triumph of Mind Over Matter

This experience taught me the power of calmness and creativity, even in the face of adversity. When my sister tried to irritate me, I used humor to diffuse the situation. Now, many years later, my sister still bristles when I tell this story, and I love to tease her with it. It's a reminder that innovation is not just about grand achievements—it's about problem-solving in everyday life.

Conclusion

neither pride nor emotional reactions played a significant role in these moments. What mattered was my ability to think clearly and find creative solutions. Whether in my professional life or childhood, the ability to innovate and adapt is a crucial skill. This tale is a testament to the importance of staying rational and using our wits to navigate life's challenges.

My decision to switch to Community Relations and my childhood trick of unlocking the door both show that being clever and inventive can lead to surprising and positive outcomes. It's a reminder that innovation is not just a professional skill but a valuable life tool.