Don’t veer for deer

deer driving michael angelo caruso blogIt’s autumn and everyone is talking about the dangers of “deering while driving.”  It got me thinking about how humans handle problems.

There are 1.5 million car-deer collisions annually.  Deer crashes kill some 150 people per year.  The deer don’t fare well, either, mostly because few of them are wearing safety belts.


Here’s a surprising driving tip

The article lists three ways to avoid an unwanted wildlife encounter:

1)  Stay alert.  Deer are the most active at dawn and dusk.

2)  Deer travel in herds.  If you see one animal, there are probably many more nearby.

The third piece of advice is rather surprising:

3)  Don’t veer for deer.  Experts say that swerving is much more dangerous than hitting the animal.  Veering could easily introduce oncoming traffic or an unforgiving bridge abutment into the equation.


Sometimes, it’s best to face a problem head-on

Michael Angelo Caruso blog problem solvingThe “don’t veer for deer” lesson is a good metaphor for other types of problem-solving.

Of course, it’s always a good idea to stay alert for communication problems related to customer service, marketing, and such.  And yes, these problems often “travel in herds.”

Lots of us try to avoid problems by ignoring them, procrastinating or even denying the problems exist.

Yet, in many cases, it’s best to confront the problem head-on.  Face the problem as if you would position yourself directly in front of a camera.

Let the conundrum collide with your personal life or your work routine.  This will create a unique opportunity to uncover a solution.


Solve problems better, faster

To get more tips for solving problems, listen to my Creating Success Habits audio CD.

 

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8 Responses to “Don’t veer for deer”

  1. Norm Veliquette says:

    I definitely agree with “don’t veer for deer,” but the advice fails to say, and should say, “If time permits, slow down. All kinds of benefits accrue to slowing down.”

  2. Vicki Watkins says:

    Michael, the topic of driving and deer makes me chuckle- only because I have hit 5 deer and 2 cows, and never lost control of my vehicle. I have caused some carnage (and much vehicular damage) due to this unusual statisitc, but have remained unhurt. I swear there is a beacon on my car, or maybe I am invisable to animals, however I am one safe driver! Gotta love Michigan backroads! Vicki Watkins

  3. Greg Kazmierski says:

    Now that the election is over, I see a deer in MY headlights. I am afraid that the “47%” in this country are very willing to let the 53% take care of them and sit on their laurels while the rest of us pay their bills. So what is an achiever, taxpayer to do? We’re a democracy, and turning into a welfare agency. GFK

  4. Lori P says:

    I live in Michigan and try to be actively aware when traveling rural roads at dusk & dawn. Your deer tips are good and certainly have a good perspective too on facing life’s situations. 2012 has been a very difficult year and I appreciate your suggestions.

  5. Michael says:

    Hi, Lori and thanks for your kind note. Better days are ahead. -Michael

  6. Michael says:

    lol, Greg. How did my post on safe driving turn political? -Michael

  7. Michael says:

    Wow, Vicki. Must’ve been some fast-moving cows. -Michael

  8. Michael says:

    I agree, Norm. Am even typing this message a little slower. Am a better man for it. ;-) -Michael

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