How equipped are you?
Prickly problems demand well-equipped problem solvers. And gearing up with the right tools and resources can make all the difference in the world.
Whatever obstacle you’re facing, it’s important to carve out time to take stock of what resources might help you through it. What tools do you need that are available already?Which ones are you missing, and how you can get your hands on them?
A toolbox audit helps you answer those questions, getting you to consciously think about how equipped — or ill-equipped — you are to tackle a challenge.
Here’s how it works:
Step 1. Define the challenge
Identify a goal you have or obstacle you’re facing. Big project at work or school? An upcoming marathon? The hunt for a new job?
Step 2. Think about what might help you succeed
Make lists of all the tools and resources that would help you accomplish your objectives.
Step 3. Conduct an inventory of your current toolbox
Identify which items on your list you currently have access to — and which ones you don’t.
Step 4. Analyze and prioritize
Next, distinguish between the “must-have” items (the tools that are absolutely essential) and the “nice-to-have” items (e.g., the latest GPS smartwatch might be helpful to track your runs, but it might not be a total dealbreaker if you don’t have one).
Step 5. Stock up
Finally, analyze your list and make a plan for how to get your hands on the tools and supports that will help you achieve your goals.
To get you started, here’s an example of what a toolbox audit might look like:
