Ten Lessons From Sherlock HolmesTo say the very least, Sherlock Holmes has once again risen from the dead. CBSs new Holmes inspired show Elementary was the networks number one new show this year; Robert Downey Jr. has made a small fortune depicting the famous sleuth on the big screen in Guy Ritchies new old look at Holmes; and Benjamin Cumberbatch has won over both sides of the Atlantic with his modern adaptation of Holmes in the hit show Sherlock.I have read and reread Arthur Conan Doyles Sherlock Holmes tales several times through, and I wanted to share the top ten lessons I have learned from the famous consulting detective that I think can be applied to the business world.1) In the words of Mr. Holmes: I never guess. It is a shocking habit destructive to the logical faculty. Mr. Holmes also stated that It is a capital mistake to theorize before one has data. Insensibly one begins to twist facts to suite theories, instead of theories to suit facts. Theorizing without appropriate and accurate data is not only useless, but it can also be very dangerous to our decision making.2) In the words of Mr. Holmes: when you have eliminated the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth. When making decisions, be sure to deal with the impossible in the same way you do the possible. Just because it seems impossible doesnt mean its improbable.

3) Genius does not come from being conventional. Dont be afraid to think and act outside of the confines of your comfort zone.4) In the words of Mr. Holmes: You know my method. It is founded upon the observation of trifles. Mr. Holmes also stated that It is, of course, a trifle, but there is nothing as important as trifles. There are no such things as insignificant details. There are only less significant details. The more we train ourselves to be curious and observant, the more likely it is we will be successful in our endeavors.5) In the words of Mr. Holmes: In solving a problem of this sort, the grand thing is to be able to reason backward. This mirrors the concept Charlie Munger (Warren Buffetts business partner) so often mentions: Invert. Always Invert.6) To the man with a hammer, every problem looks like a nail. Sherlock Holmes is a man of many talents and curiosities and uses many different disciplines (science, psychology, persuasion, physical strength, etc.) to solve problems.7) In the words of Mr. Holmes: Education never ends Watson. Life is a series of lesson with the greatest for the last. Never, ever, ever stop learning.8) Distracting your mind is often the best way to solve a problem. Mr. Holmes greatest insights often came at moments when he was doing a random science experiment, taking a walk, playing his violin, or smoking his pipe.9) Develop odd friendships and learn to be comfortable in any setting. Mr. Holmes was as comfortable in the presence of royalty as he was in the boxing ring with someone trying to knock his head off. Dont be afraid to develop odd friendships with odd individuals and learn to be comfortable in any situation.10) Be Just: Sherlock Holmes is not afraid to get his hands a little dirty every now and again, but he never loses sight of justice and being on the right side of an issue.