Problem Solving Elon Musk uses a systematic method of problem solving known as “first principles thinking,” which involves “creating new knowledge and solutions from scratch,” (Oshin, n.d., p. 1). First principles thinking allows for maximum creativity in the problem solving process. Furthermore, first principles thinking is solution-focused, encouraging Musk and leaders like him to push through seemingly insurmountable barriers. Elon Musk’s visionary style of leadership blends well with the first principles approach, allowing the innovative leader and starter of radically new businesses like Tesla, PayPal, SpaceX and Solar City to “make the leap from what is to what is possible,” going beyond what others have done before, using methods that are equally as unique or even controversial (Straus, 2017, p. 1). In fact, Elon Musk’s first principles approach has been controversial in many ways, revealing the necessity for visionary leaders to overcome resistance to change and to be willing to boldly forge forward with optimism and determination to achieve goals.

Creativity is crucial for effective problem solving for several reasons. For one, creativity allows the leader to remain open to new opportunities and approaches rather than remain bogged down by rote or standardized ways of resolving conflicts (DuBrin, 2015). Also, visionary leadership depends on optimism: the certainty that goals can be achieved. As DuBrin (2015) points out, enthusiasm and joyousness aid in the problem solving process because of the importance of remaining positive.

Skillful and creative problem solving also entails breaking down...

First principles thinking begins with an identification of the issues and its components, and then breaking each element down accordingly in a systematic fashion, perhaps by using techniques like journaling or using visual aids like graphs and charts. Working in a team, a strong leader can incorporate multiple points of view during the problem solving process. The leader is also willing to acknowledge prejudicial or biased thinking by entertaining new ideas.
Conflict Management

Elon Musk’s conflict management style is as bold and iconoclastic as his approach to problem solving. For example, a Tesla autopilot car accident resulted in a man’s death in 2016, and Musk responded in a way the media found “the wrong way to handle this sort of crisis,” (Woolf, 2016, p. 1). At the same time, Musk’s conflict management style within the organizations he leads has been heralded as stimulating innovation and enabling frank and open communication (Bariso, 2017). Musk has resisted the temptation to bow down to media pressures to conform to social standards or political correctness, instead sticking to the core values and principles of his vision. Effective conflict management means willing to make changes or amends as needed, but not based on emotionality or arbitrary rules. While Musk might have been insensitive in the response to the death of someone involved in an autopilot Tesla, the leader managed the conflict by referring to the core values and visions of the Tesla operation: the big picture issues.

Media and public relations…