Meaning: The quote "If you procrastinate when faced with a big difficult problem... break the problem into parts, and handle one part at a time" by Robert Collier emphasizes the importance of breaking down complex and daunting tasks into manageable components. This approach is a valuable strategy for overcoming procrastination and tackling challenging problems with greater efficiency and effectiveness.

Procrastination is a common tendency among individuals when confronted with overwhelming or intricate tasks. The inclination to delay action can stem from feelings of anxiety, uncertainty, or inadequacy in the face of a significant challenge. However, the advice offered by Robert Collier encourages individuals to adopt a more systematic and structured approach to problem-solving.

The act of breaking a big difficult problem into smaller, more manageable parts serves several purposes. Firstly, it helps to alleviate the feeling of being overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of the task at hand. By deconstructing the problem, individuals can focus on addressing specific components, making the overall challenge appear less formidable. This approach can also foster a sense of progress and accomplishment as each part of the problem is successfully addressed, providing motivation to continue working towards a solution.

Furthermore, breaking a problem into parts allows for a more organized and methodical approach to problem-solving. Rather than attempting to tackle the entire issue in one overwhelming endeavor, individuals can strategically identify and prioritize the individual components of the problem. This can lead to a clearer understanding of the various elements at play and enable more targeted and effective problem-solving strategies.

In addition, handling one part of a problem at a time can facilitate a more in-depth analysis and exploration of each component. This approach allows for a deeper understanding of the intricacies and interrelationships within the problem, potentially leading to more comprehensive and insightful solutions. By devoting focused attention to each part, individuals can apply specific expertise or resources to address the unique challenges presented by different aspects of the problem.

The concept of breaking a complex problem into parts and handling them sequentially aligns with principles of project management and task delegation in professional settings. In project management, the breakdown of complex initiatives into smaller, manageable tasks is a fundamental practice to ensure efficient execution and successful completion. Similarly, the concept of dividing and conquering is often employed in teamwork and collaborative environments, allowing individuals to specialize in specific areas of expertise and contribute to a collective solution.

Moreover, the approach advocated by Robert Collier resonates with the psychological principles of goal setting and self-efficacy. By dividing a daunting task into manageable parts, individuals can establish clear and achievable milestones, enhancing their sense of self-efficacy and belief in their ability to overcome challenges. This incremental progress can contribute to a positive feedback loop, reinforcing motivation and confidence as each part of the problem is addressed.

In conclusion, the quote by Robert Collier highlights a practical and effective strategy for dealing with daunting problems and overcoming procrastination. By breaking complex challenges into manageable parts and addressing them sequentially, individuals can reduce feelings of overwhelm, enhance organizational and analytical capabilities, and build momentum towards a successful resolution. This approach aligns with principles of effective project management, teamwork, and personal development, making it a valuable tool for individuals seeking to approach difficult problems with confidence and efficacy.