EFFICIENT DECISION MAKING

Once there lived a rich man, who had three sons. He died at his old age, leaving behind 17 cows
for his three sons. In the legal heir, he mentioned that 1/2 of 17 cows go to his eldest son. One sixth of
total cows go to his second son and 1/9 of all cows to his youngest one. Every one must give a cow to
the person who divides the cows to all three without any disputes and conflicts.

By reading the heir, every one was confused. The villagers came to the conclusion that at least
one of them must adjust, otherwise, it is impossible. But none of the brothers is willing to sacrifice their
part. Every one was expecting that this would end up with a quarrel.

At this juncture, there came another traveler, with a cow. He enquired the entire story and
happening. He assured that he would solve the problem, if the villagers and the brothers are willing to.
They agreed. He added his cow also along with 17 cows. Now, it counted 18.

He gave 1/2 of 18 cows, that is 9 cows to the eldest.

One sixth of 18 cows, that is 3 cows given to the second son.

1/9 cows, that is 2 cows given to the youngest.

The traveler, collected three cows as a credit to solve the problem and took back his cow.

(9+3+2+3=17)

So, in order to arrive a better decision out of a problem, always come out of the problem, and
look at the problem as a third person does. Don’t even think that you are part of the problem. The
villagers and sons, looked the problem staying inside. So they are unable to come to a conclusion.
Where as the traveler, looked the problem from outside. So, he was able to give a better solution to the
problem.

So, take out all worries, and treat the problem as though that of others, and decide a solution, we will
definitely get a better solution.

Regards
Anand
[email protected]