The Current State-Desired State Tool

To find effective solutions, having a clear and precise idea of the challenge we want to work on is essential. In this regard, we’ve developed a simple resource called the Current State-Desired State tool. This tool is designed to help individuals and teams identify and address the challenges they wish to overcome.

For instance, let’s delve into Tom’s challenge: 

Tom frequently struggles with punctuality for meetings and appointments, meeting project deadlines, and promptly responding to emails. Despite valuing punctuality and meeting deadlines, he finds it challenging to follow through. In addition, Tom experiences stress from frequently missing morning and evening train schedules, affecting his daily routine and causing inconvenience to his family. Acknowledging the need for self-improvement, Tom seeks effective strategies to overcome these challenges.

Desired state: Tom aims to be punctual and deliver work on time.

Current state: Tom is often late for meetings and appointments, misses morning or evening trains, and often has an accumulation of unanswered emails. Meeting project deadlines is a challenge, with both colleagues and family expressing dissatisfaction with his punctuality.

Further observations: Tom tends to stay up late, ignoring his morning alarm. He realizes that he could complete tasks more efficiently as he often gets bogged down and loses track of time.

To address these challenges, Tom seeks assistance from his colleague, Suzanne. He shares his notes on the Current State-Desired State of his Challenge, expressing his desire to change. Together, they use the ACE process (Address, Create, Execute) to brainstorm potential solutions. From their collaborative efforts, he chooses the following solutions: 

1) Keeping a log of tasks with specified timeframes.

2) Sharing a calendar with Suzanne to receive a 10-minute warning before meetings.

3) Establishing an evening routine starting at 8 p.m. and ensuring lights are off by 11 p.m.

4) Setting an alarm for 6 a.m. with a stress-free wake-up using the snooze function.

5) Having a short breakfast with the family and catching the train at 7.45 a.m.

Implementing these ideas, Tom significantly improves his time management, fulfills project deadlines more consistently, and becomes punctual for meetings. With Suzanne’s support as a learning partner, Tom feels more secure and notices improvements in both his work environment and family life.

In conclusion, the effective identification of challenges and articulation of desired and current states, along with seeking collaborative solutions, significantly contribute to achieving personal and professional growth.