what is personal problem solving

What is Problem Solving? (Steps, Techniques, Examples)

What is problem solving, definition and importance.

Problem solving is the process of finding solutions to obstacles or challenges you encounter in your life or work. It is a crucial skill that allows you to tackle complex situations, adapt to changes, and overcome difficulties with ease. Mastering this ability will contribute to both your personal and professional growth, leading to more successful outcomes and better decision-making.

Problem-Solving Steps

The problem-solving process typically includes the following steps:

• Identify the issue : Recognize the problem that needs to be solved.
• Analyze the situation : Examine the issue in depth, gather all relevant information, and consider any limitations or constraints that may be present.
• Generate potential solutions : Brainstorm a list of possible solutions to the issue, without immediately judging or evaluating them.
• Evaluate options : Weigh the pros and cons of each potential solution, considering factors such as feasibility, effectiveness, and potential risks.
• Select the best solution : Choose the option that best addresses the problem and aligns with your objectives.
• Implement the solution : Put the selected solution into action and monitor the results to ensure it resolves the issue.
• Review and learn : Reflect on the problem-solving process, identify any improvements or adjustments that can be made, and apply these learnings to future situations.

Defining the Problem

To start tackling a problem, first, identify and understand it. Analyzing the issue thoroughly helps to clarify its scope and nature. Ask questions to gather information and consider the problem from various angles. Some strategies to define the problem include:

• Brainstorming with others
• Asking the 5 Ws and 1 H (Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How)
• Analyzing cause and effect
• Creating a problem statement

Generating Solutions

Once the problem is clearly understood, brainstorm possible solutions. Think creatively and keep an open mind, as well as considering lessons from past experiences. Consider:

• Creating a list of potential ideas to solve the problem
• Grouping and categorizing similar solutions
• Prioritizing potential solutions based on feasibility, cost, and resources required
• Involving others to share diverse opinions and inputs

Evaluating and Selecting Solutions

Evaluate each potential solution, weighing its pros and cons. To facilitate decision-making, use techniques such as:

• SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats)
• Decision-making matrices
• Pros and cons lists
• Risk assessments

After evaluating, choose the most suitable solution based on effectiveness, cost, and time constraints.

Implementing and Monitoring the Solution

Implement the chosen solution and monitor its progress. Key actions include:

• Communicating the solution to relevant parties
• Setting timelines and milestones
• Assigning tasks and responsibilities
• Monitoring the solution and making adjustments as necessary
• Evaluating the effectiveness of the solution after implementation

Utilize feedback from stakeholders and consider potential improvements. Remember that problem-solving is an ongoing process that can always be refined and enhanced.

Problem-Solving Techniques

During each step, you may find it helpful to utilize various problem-solving techniques, such as:

• Brainstorming : A free-flowing, open-minded session where ideas are generated and listed without judgment, to encourage creativity and innovative thinking.
• Root cause analysis : A method that explores the underlying causes of a problem to find the most effective solution rather than addressing superficial symptoms.
• SWOT analysis : A tool used to evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats related to a problem or decision, providing a comprehensive view of the situation.
• Mind mapping : A visual technique that uses diagrams to organize and connect ideas, helping to identify patterns, relationships, and possible solutions.

Brainstorming

When facing a problem, start by conducting a brainstorming session. Gather your team and encourage an open discussion where everyone contributes ideas, no matter how outlandish they may seem. This helps you:

• Generate a diverse range of solutions
• Encourage all team members to participate
• Foster creative thinking

When brainstorming, remember to:

• Reserve judgment until the session is over
• Encourage wild ideas
• Combine and improve upon ideas

Root Cause Analysis

For effective problem-solving, identifying the root cause of the issue at hand is crucial. Try these methods:

• 5 Whys : Ask “why” five times to get to the underlying cause.
• Fishbone Diagram : Create a diagram representing the problem and break it down into categories of potential causes.
• Pareto Analysis : Determine the few most significant causes underlying the majority of problems.

SWOT Analysis

SWOT analysis helps you examine the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats related to your problem. To perform a SWOT analysis:

• List your problem’s strengths, such as relevant resources or strong partnerships.
• Identify its weaknesses, such as knowledge gaps or limited resources.
• Explore opportunities, like trends or new technologies, that could help solve the problem.
• Recognize potential threats, like competition or regulatory barriers.

SWOT analysis aids in understanding the internal and external factors affecting the problem, which can help guide your solution.

Mind Mapping

A mind map is a visual representation of your problem and potential solutions. It enables you to organize information in a structured and intuitive manner. To create a mind map:

• Write the problem in the center of a blank page.
• Draw branches from the central problem to related sub-problems or contributing factors.
• Add more branches to represent potential solutions or further ideas.

Mind mapping allows you to visually see connections between ideas and promotes creativity in problem-solving.

Examples of Problem Solving in Various Contexts

In the business world, you might encounter problems related to finances, operations, or communication. Applying problem-solving skills in these situations could look like:

• Identifying areas of improvement in your company’s financial performance and implementing cost-saving measures
• Resolving internal conflicts among team members by listening and understanding different perspectives, then proposing and negotiating solutions
• Streamlining a process for better productivity by removing redundancies, automating tasks, or re-allocating resources

In educational contexts, problem-solving can be seen in various aspects, such as:

• Addressing a gap in students’ understanding by employing diverse teaching methods to cater to different learning styles
• Developing a strategy for successful time management to balance academic responsibilities and extracurricular activities
• Seeking resources and support to provide equal opportunities for learners with special needs or disabilities

Everyday life is full of challenges that require problem-solving skills. Some examples include:

• Overcoming a personal obstacle, such as improving your fitness level, by establishing achievable goals, measuring progress, and adjusting your approach accordingly
• Navigating a new environment or city by researching your surroundings, asking for directions, or using technology like GPS to guide you
• Dealing with a sudden change, like a change in your work schedule, by assessing the situation, identifying potential impacts, and adapting your plans to accommodate the change.
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Problem-Solving Strategies and Obstacles

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From deciding what to eat for dinner to considering whether it's the right time to buy a house, problem-solving is a large part of our daily lives. Learn some of the problem-solving strategies that exist and how to use them in real life, along with ways to overcome obstacles that are making it harder to resolve the issues you face.

What Is Problem-Solving?

In cognitive psychology , the term 'problem-solving' refers to the mental process that people go through to discover, analyze, and solve problems.

A problem exists when there is a goal that we want to achieve but the process by which we will achieve it is not obvious to us. Put another way, there is something that we want to occur in our life, yet we are not immediately certain how to make it happen.

Maybe you want a better relationship with your spouse or another family member but you're not sure how to improve it. Or you want to start a business but are unsure what steps to take. Problem-solving helps you figure out how to achieve these desires.

The problem-solving process involves:

• Discovery of the problem
• Deciding to tackle the issue
• Seeking to understand the problem more fully
• Researching available options or solutions
• Taking action to resolve the issue

Before problem-solving can occur, it is important to first understand the exact nature of the problem itself. If your understanding of the issue is faulty, your attempts to resolve it will also be incorrect or flawed.

Problem-Solving Mental Processes

Several mental processes are at work during problem-solving. Among them are:

• Perceptually recognizing the problem
• Representing the problem in memory
• Considering relevant information that applies to the problem
• Identifying different aspects of the problem
• Labeling and describing the problem

Problem-Solving Strategies

There are many ways to go about solving a problem. Some of these strategies might be used on their own, or you may decide to employ multiple approaches when working to figure out and fix a problem.

An algorithm is a step-by-step procedure that, by following certain "rules" produces a solution. Algorithms are commonly used in mathematics to solve division or multiplication problems. But they can be used in other fields as well.

In psychology, algorithms can be used to help identify individuals with a greater risk of mental health issues. For instance, research suggests that certain algorithms might help us recognize children with an elevated risk of suicide or self-harm.

One benefit of algorithms is that they guarantee an accurate answer. However, they aren't always the best approach to problem-solving, in part because detecting patterns can be incredibly time-consuming.

There are also concerns when machine learning is involved—also known as artificial intelligence (AI)—such as whether they can accurately predict human behaviors.

Heuristics are shortcut strategies that people can use to solve a problem at hand. These "rule of thumb" approaches allow you to simplify complex problems, reducing the total number of possible solutions to a more manageable set.

If you find yourself sitting in a traffic jam, for example, you may quickly consider other routes, taking one to get moving once again. When shopping for a new car, you might think back to a prior experience when negotiating got you a lower price, then employ the same tactics.

While heuristics may be helpful when facing smaller issues, major decisions shouldn't necessarily be made using a shortcut approach. Heuristics also don't guarantee an effective solution, such as when trying to drive around a traffic jam only to find yourself on an equally crowded route.

Trial and Error

A trial-and-error approach to problem-solving involves trying a number of potential solutions to a particular issue, then ruling out those that do not work. If you're not sure whether to buy a shirt in blue or green, for instance, you may try on each before deciding which one to purchase.

This can be a good strategy to use if you have a limited number of solutions available. But if there are many different choices available, narrowing down the possible options using another problem-solving technique can be helpful before attempting trial and error.

In some cases, the solution to a problem can appear as a sudden insight. You are facing an issue in a relationship or your career when, out of nowhere, the solution appears in your mind and you know exactly what to do.

Insight can occur when the problem in front of you is similar to an issue that you've dealt with in the past. Although, you may not recognize what is occurring since the underlying mental processes that lead to insight often happen outside of conscious awareness .

Research indicates that insight is most likely to occur during times when you are alone—such as when going on a walk by yourself, when you're in the shower, or when lying in bed after waking up.

How to Apply Problem-Solving Strategies in Real Life

If you're facing a problem, you can implement one or more of these strategies to find a potential solution. Here's how to use them in real life:

• Create a flow chart . If you have time, you can take advantage of the algorithm approach to problem-solving by sitting down and making a flow chart of each potential solution, its consequences, and what happens next.
• Recall your past experiences . When a problem needs to be solved fairly quickly, heuristics may be a better approach. Think back to when you faced a similar issue, then use your knowledge and experience to choose the best option possible.
• Start trying potential solutions . If your options are limited, start trying them one by one to see which solution is best for achieving your desired goal. If a particular solution doesn't work, move on to the next.
• Take some time alone . Since insight is often achieved when you're alone, carve out time to be by yourself for a while. The answer to your problem may come to you, seemingly out of the blue, if you spend some time away from others.

Obstacles to Problem-Solving

Problem-solving is not a flawless process as there are a number of obstacles that can interfere with our ability to solve a problem quickly and efficiently. These obstacles include:

• Assumptions: When dealing with a problem, people can make assumptions about the constraints and obstacles that prevent certain solutions. Thus, they may not even try some potential options.
• Functional fixedness : This term refers to the tendency to view problems only in their customary manner. Functional fixedness prevents people from fully seeing all of the different options that might be available to find a solution.
• Irrelevant or misleading information: When trying to solve a problem, it's important to distinguish between information that is relevant to the issue and irrelevant data that can lead to faulty solutions. The more complex the problem, the easier it is to focus on misleading or irrelevant information.
• Mental set: A mental set is a tendency to only use solutions that have worked in the past rather than looking for alternative ideas. A mental set can work as a heuristic, making it a useful problem-solving tool. However, mental sets can also lead to inflexibility, making it more difficult to find effective solutions.

How to Improve Your Problem-Solving Skills

In the end, if your goal is to become a better problem-solver, it's helpful to remember that this is a process. Thus, if you want to improve your problem-solving skills, following these steps can help lead you to your solution:

• Recognize that a problem exists . If you are facing a problem, there are generally signs. For instance, if you have a mental illness , you may experience excessive fear or sadness, mood changes, and changes in sleeping or eating habits. Recognizing these signs can help you realize that an issue exists.
• Decide to solve the problem . Make a conscious decision to solve the issue at hand. Commit to yourself that you will go through the steps necessary to find a solution.
• Seek to fully understand the issue . Analyze the problem you face, looking at it from all sides. If your problem is relationship-related, for instance, ask yourself how the other person may be interpreting the issue. You might also consider how your actions might be contributing to the situation.
• Research potential options . Using the problem-solving strategies mentioned, research potential solutions. Make a list of options, then consider each one individually. What are some pros and cons of taking the available routes? What would you need to do to make them happen?
• Take action . Select the best solution possible and take action. Action is one of the steps required for change . So, go through the motions needed to resolve the issue.
• Try another option, if needed . If the solution you chose didn't work, don't give up. Either go through the problem-solving process again or simply try another option.

You can find a way to solve your problems as long as you keep working toward this goal—even if the best solution is simply to let go because no other good solution exists.

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By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

What Are Problem-Solving Skills? Definition and Examples

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Forage puts students first. Our blog articles are written independently by our editorial team. They have not been paid for or sponsored by our partners. See our full  editorial guidelines .

Why do employers hire employees? To help them solve problems. Whether you’re a financial analyst deciding where to invest your firm’s money, or a marketer trying to figure out which channel to direct your efforts, companies hire people to help them find solutions. Problem-solving is an essential and marketable soft skill in the workplace. 

So, how can you improve your problem-solving and show employers you have this valuable skill? In this guide, we’ll cover:

Problem-Solving Skills Definition

Why are problem-solving skills important, problem-solving skills examples, how to include problem-solving skills in a job application, how to improve problem-solving skills, problem-solving: the bottom line.

Problem-solving skills are the ability to identify problems, brainstorm and analyze answers, and implement the best solutions. An employee with good problem-solving skills is both a self-starter and a collaborative teammate; they are proactive in understanding the root of a problem and work with others to consider a wide range of solutions before deciding how to move forward. 

Examples of using problem-solving skills in the workplace include:

• Researching patterns to understand why revenue decreased last quarter
• Experimenting with a new marketing channel to increase website sign-ups
• Brainstorming content types to share with potential customers
• Testing calls to action to see which ones drive the most product sales
• Implementing a new workflow to automate a team process and increase productivity

Problem-solving skills are the most sought-after soft skill of 2022. In fact, 86% of employers look for problem-solving skills on student resumes, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers Job Outlook 2022 survey . 

It’s unsurprising why employers are looking for this skill: companies will always need people to help them find solutions to their problems. Someone proactive and successful at problem-solving is valuable to any team.

“Employers are looking for employees who can make decisions independently, especially with the prevalence of remote/hybrid work and the need to communicate asynchronously,” Eric Mochnacz, senior HR consultant at Red Clover, says. “Employers want to see individuals who can make well-informed decisions that mitigate risk, and they can do so without suffering from analysis paralysis.”

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Problem-solving includes three main parts: identifying the problem, analyzing possible solutions, and deciding on the best course of action.

>>MORE: Discover the right career for you based on your skills with a career aptitude test .

Research is the first step of problem-solving because it helps you understand the context of a problem. Researching a problem enables you to learn why the problem is happening. For example, is revenue down because of a new sales tactic? Or because of seasonality? Is there a problem with who the sales team is reaching out to? 

Research broadens your scope to all possible reasons why the problem could be happening. Then once you figure it out, it helps you narrow your scope to start solving it. 

Analysis is the next step of problem-solving. Now that you’ve identified the problem, analytical skills help you look at what potential solutions there might be.

“The goal of analysis isn’t to solve a problem, actually — it’s to better understand it because that’s where the real solution will be found,” Gretchen Skalka, owner of Career Insights Consulting, says. “Looking at a problem through the lens of impartiality is the only way to get a true understanding of it from all angles.”

Decision-Making

Once you’ve figured out where the problem is coming from and what solutions are, it’s time to decide on the best way to go forth. Decision-making skills help you determine what resources are available, what a feasible action plan entails, and what solution is likely to lead to success.

On a Resume

Employers looking for problem-solving skills might include the word “problem-solving” or other synonyms like “ critical thinking ” or “analytical skills” in the job description.

“I would add ‘buzzwords’ you can find from the job descriptions or LinkedIn endorsements section to filter into your resume to comply with the ATS,” Matthew Warzel, CPRW resume writer, advises. Warzel recommends including these skills on your resume but warns to “leave the soft skills as adjectives in the summary section. That is the only place soft skills should be mentioned.”

On the other hand, you can list hard skills separately in a skills section on your resume .

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In a Cover Letter or an Interview

Explaining your problem-solving skills in an interview can seem daunting. You’re required to expand on your process — how you identified a problem, analyzed potential solutions, and made a choice. As long as you can explain your approach, it’s okay if that solution didn’t come from a professional work experience.

“Young professionals shortchange themselves by thinking only paid-for solutions matter to employers,” Skalka says. “People at the genesis of their careers don’t have a wealth of professional experience to pull from, but they do have relevant experience to share.”

Aaron Case, career counselor and CPRW at Resume Genius, agrees and encourages early professionals to share this skill. “If you don’t have any relevant work experience yet, you can still highlight your problem-solving skills in your cover letter,” he says. “Just showcase examples of problems you solved while completing your degree, working at internships, or volunteering. You can even pull examples from completely unrelated part-time jobs, as long as you make it clear how your problem-solving ability transfers to your new line of work.”

Learn How to Identify Problems

Problem-solving doesn’t just require finding solutions to problems that are already there. It’s also about being proactive when something isn’t working as you hoped it would. Practice questioning and getting curious about processes and activities in your everyday life. What could you improve? What would you do if you had more resources for this process? If you had fewer? Challenge yourself to challenge the world around you.

Think Digitally

“Employers in the modern workplace value digital problem-solving skills, like being able to find a technology solution to a traditional issue,” Case says. “For example, when I first started working as a marketing writer, my department didn’t have the budget to hire a professional voice actor for marketing video voiceovers. But I found a perfect solution to the problem with an AI voiceover service that cost a fraction of the price of an actor.”

Being comfortable with new technology — even ones you haven’t used before — is a valuable skill in an increasingly hybrid and remote world. Don’t be afraid to research new and innovative technologies to help automate processes or find a more efficient technological solution.

Collaborate

Problem-solving isn’t done in a silo, and it shouldn’t be. Use your collaboration skills to gather multiple perspectives, help eliminate bias, and listen to alternative solutions. Ask others where they think the problem is coming from and what solutions would help them with your workflow. From there, try to compromise on a solution that can benefit everyone.

If we’ve learned anything from the past few years, it’s that the world of work is constantly changing — which means it’s crucial to know how to adapt . Be comfortable narrowing down a solution, then changing your direction when a colleague provides a new piece of information. Challenge yourself to get out of your comfort zone, whether with your personal routine or trying a new system at work.

Put Yourself in the Middle of Tough Moments

Just like adapting requires you to challenge your routine and tradition, good problem-solving requires you to put yourself in challenging situations — especially ones where you don’t have relevant experience or expertise to find a solution. Because you won’t know how to tackle the problem, you’ll learn new problem-solving skills and how to navigate new challenges. Ask your manager or a peer if you can help them work on a complicated problem, and be proactive about asking them questions along the way.

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Companies always need people to help them find solutions — especially proactive employees who have practical analytical skills and can collaborate to decide the best way to move forward. Whether or not you have experience solving problems in a professional workplace, illustrate your problem-solving skills by describing your research, analysis, and decision-making process — and make it clear that you’re the solution to the employer’s current problems. 

Image Credit: Christina Morillo / Pexels 

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7 Problem-Solving Skills That Can Help You Be a More Successful Manager

Discover what problem-solving is, and why it's important for managers. Understand the steps of the process and learn about seven problem-solving skills.

1Managers oversee the day-to-day operations of a particular department, and sometimes a whole company, using their problem-solving skills regularly. Managers with good problem-solving skills can help ensure companies run smoothly and prosper.

If you're a current manager or are striving to become one, read this guide to discover what problem-solving skills are and why it's important for managers to have them. Learn the steps of the problem-solving process, and explore seven skills that can help make problem-solving easier and more effective.

What is problem-solving?

Problem-solving is both an ability and a process. As an ability, problem-solving can aid in resolving issues faced in different environments like home, school, abroad, and social situations, among others. As a process, problem-solving involves a series of steps for finding solutions to questions or concerns that arise throughout life.

The importance of problem-solving for managers

Managers deal with problems regularly, whether supervising a staff of two or 100. When people solve problems quickly and effectively, workplaces can benefit in a number of ways. These include:

Greater creativity

Higher productivity

Increased job fulfillment

Satisfied clients or customers

Better cooperation and cohesion

Improved environments for employees and customers

7 skills that make problem-solving easier

Companies depend on managers who can solve problems adeptly. Although problem-solving is a skill in its own right, a subset of seven skills can help make the process of problem-solving easier. These include analysis, communication, emotional intelligence, resilience, creativity, adaptability, and teamwork.

1. Analysis

As a manager , you'll solve each problem by assessing the situation first. Then, you’ll use analytical skills to distinguish between ineffective and effective solutions.

2. Communication

Effective communication plays a significant role in problem-solving, particularly when others are involved. Some skills that can help enhance communication at work include active listening, speaking with an even tone and volume, and supporting verbal information with written communication.

3. Emotional intelligence

Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize and manage emotions in any situation. People with emotional intelligence usually solve problems calmly and systematically, which often yields better results.

4. Resilience

Emotional intelligence and resilience are closely related traits. Resiliency is the ability to cope with and bounce back quickly from difficult situations. Those who possess resilience are often capable of accurately interpreting people and situations, which can be incredibly advantageous when difficulties arise.

5. Creativity 

When brainstorming solutions to problems, creativity can help you to think outside the box. Problem-solving strategies can be enhanced with the application of creative techniques. You can use creativity to:

Approach problems from different angles

Improve your problem-solving process

Spark creativity in your employees and peers

6. Adaptability

Adaptability is the capacity to adjust to change. When a particular solution to an issue doesn't work, an adaptable person can revisit the concern to think up another one without getting frustrated.

7. Teamwork

Finding a solution to a problem regularly involves working in a team. Good teamwork requires being comfortable working with others and collaborating with them, which can result in better problem-solving overall.

Steps of the problem-solving process

Effective problem-solving involves five essential steps. One way to remember them is through the IDEAL model created in 1984 by psychology professors John D. Bransford and Barry S. Stein [ 1 ]. The steps to solving problems in this model include: identifying that there is a problem, defining the goals you hope to achieve, exploring potential solutions, choosing a solution and acting on it, and looking at (or evaluating) the outcome.

1. Identify that there is a problem and root out its cause.

To solve a problem, you must first admit that one exists to then find its root cause. Finding the cause of the problem may involve asking questions like:

Can the problem be solved?

How big of a problem is it?

Why do I think the problem is occurring?

What are some things I know about the situation?

What are some things I don't know about the situation?

Are there any people who contributed to the problem?

Are there materials or processes that contributed to the problem?

Are there any patterns I can identify?

2. Define the goals you hope to achieve.

Every problem is different. The goals you hope to achieve when problem-solving depend on the scope of the problem. Some examples of goals you might set include:

Gather as much factual information as possible.

Brainstorm many different strategies to come up with the best one.

Be flexible when considering other viewpoints.

Articulate clearly and encourage questions, so everyone involved is on the same page.

Be open to other strategies if the chosen strategy doesn't work.

Stay positive throughout the process.

3. Explore potential solutions.

Once you've defined the goals you hope to achieve when problem-solving , it's time to start the process. This involves steps that often include fact-finding, brainstorming, prioritizing solutions, and assessing the cost of top solutions in terms of time, labor, and money.

4. Choose a solution and act on it.

Evaluate the pros and cons of each potential solution, and choose the one most likely to solve the problem within your given budget, abilities, and resources. Once you choose a solution, it's important to make a commitment and see it through. Draw up a plan of action for implementation, and share it with all involved parties clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing. Make sure everyone understands their role for a successful conclusion.

5. Look at (or evaluate) the outcome.

Evaluation offers insights into your current situation and future problem-solving. When evaluating the outcome, ask yourself questions like:

Did the solution work?

Will this solution work for other problems?

Were there any changes you would have made?

Would another solution have worked better?

As a current or future manager looking to build your problem-solving skills, it is often helpful to take a professional course. Consider Improving Communication Skills offered by the University of Pennsylvania on Coursera. You'll learn how to boost your ability to persuade, ask questions, negotiate, apologize, and more. 

You might also consider taking Emotional Intelligence: Cultivating Immensely Human Interactions , offered by the University of Michigan on Coursera. You'll explore the interpersonal and intrapersonal skills common to people with emotional intelligence, and you'll learn how emotional intelligence is connected to team success and leadership.

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Tennessee Tech. “ The Ideal Problem Solver (2nd ed.) , https://www.tntech.edu/cat/pdf/useful_links/idealproblemsolver.pdf.” Accessed December 6, 2022.

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Improve Your Problem-Solving Skills – Steps, Processes & Technique

When you are faced with a problem, how do you go about solving it? Do you let it overwhelm you, or do you flex your problem-solving muscles and figure out the best possible solution?

People who allow themselves to be overwhelmed or ignore complex problems often become frantic and confused. They usually take a haphazard approach to thinking, and then they are dismayed when they find themselves floundering and making no progress.

Luckily, there is a much better way.

I’d like to introduce you to a problem-solving process that can help you face and tackle any type of challenge. With these 10 problem-solving strategies, you will strengthen your ability to always find a solution while enabling yourself to see real progress.

Once you begin to execute these problem-solving  techniques, you will feel confident to face a problem right away.

What Are Problem-Solving Skills?

Problem-solving skills involve identifying a problem, coming up with possible solutions, choosing an appropriate solution, and then implementing it.

Often, there is more than one correct solution to a problem. But frequently, you are looking for the best solution that applies to your particular circumstance.

For instance, possible solutions to losing weight include eating less, adding healthier foods to your diet, walking 30 minutes a day, swimming three times a week, training for a 5K race, drinking more water, and many other effective solutions.

Your job is to find the solution that will work best for you and give you the most success.

Good problem-solving skills are essential in all areas of your life because we encounter problems to solve in one form or another nearly every day, from small things like getting stuck in traffic to major events like being diagnosed with a chronic illness.

A problem can be defined in one of two ways:

“Any question or matter involving doubt, uncertainty, or difficulty; a question proposed for solution or discussion.”

The Encyclopedia of the Sciences of Learning explains that a problem:

“…is generally considered to be a task, a situation, or person which is difficult to deal with or control due to complexity and transparency. In everyday language, a problem is a question proposed for a solution, a matter stated for examination or proof.”

In short, a problem is something that’s hard to deal with and needs to be solved.

Examples of common problems in the workplace might include:

• Lack of motivation or boredom
• Discrimination
• Conflict with a boss or coworkers
• Performance issues
• Burnout or stress
• Bad working conditions

Or maybe you’re dealing with problems in your personal life. For example:

• A strained marriage or divorce
• Financial worries
• Health issues
• Grief over the death of loved ones
• Issues your children are experiencing
• A decision to move, change jobs, or get an education

No matter what you’re facing, it’s important to actively cultivate your creative thinking and learn problem-solving techniques. 

When you’re able to solve problems effectively, you will enjoy greater satisfaction in life. Your relational skills will improve, and your problem-solving abilities will make you highly valuable in the workplace.

The Importance of Solving Problems

We solve problems daily in all aspects of life. People who are good problem solvers are more likely to be successful in getting around obstacles and achieving their desired end result.

What’s more, solving complex problems doesn’t only help change your external circumstances. You’ll also feel happier and more confident in yourself, knowing you can solve future problems.  

Problem-solving allows you to:

• Fix things that are broken
• Address risk
• Improve performance
• Seize opportunity
• Lower stress and anxiety
• Prevent more serious consequences

Having a problem-solving strategy will make you more attractive to hiring managers. In many cases, you might be asked in a job interview about your problem-solving skills. 

It’s smart to think of an example ahead of time–a problem that came up at your last job and how you solved it–so you’ll be prepared. You can also mention the soft skills listed above: 

“My communication skills, flexibility, and ability to think outside the box help me deal with problems in a timely manner.”

The more you practice effective problem-solving techniques, the better you will get at solving problems and the more reliable and trustworthy you will become in your field as well as in your personal life.

Understanding the Problem-Solving Process

When you’re setting out to solve a problem, what should you do first?

While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to problem-solving, there is a general framework that you can use to help solve problems.

The problem-solving process is often broken down into seven steps:

• Identify the issue and its root cause
• Understand every angle of the problem
• List possible solutions
• Evaluate the options
• Choose an option
• Evaluate the results

I’ll explain this process and each of these steps, plus a few bonus steps. I’ll also share some further problem-solving strategies so you are well-equipped with solution-finding techniques that you can apply to various situations.

The important thing to understand now, though, is that you can use a structured process to improve problem-solving skills. You don’t have to shoot in the dark–simply follow the steps listed in this process.

Problem-Solving Skills

What kind of skills should you cultivate to become a better problem-solver?

You can also work on things like your communication skills, analytical skills, and other key skills in life that will make you a better problem solver. These soft skills go hand in hand with being able to come up with solutions quickly.

Focus on the following:

Brainstorming

This is a method of free-thinking used to generate ideas that involve thinking of a long list of possible solutions without making an initial judgment about how effective they might be. You can brainstorm with a group of people or on your own.

Data gathering

Collecting information related to the issue is a vital problem-solving tool as the more information you have about the root cause and contributing factors to a problem, the easier it will be to find solutions that work. Fact-finding can come from interviewing people involved, researching related problems, reading documents, analyzing data, and more.

Creative thinking

When you’re a creative thinker, you’re able to look at a complex problem or an everyday problem and think of unique, original solutions. Your ability to come up with creative solutions will make you more marketable as well as more successful in meeting complex problems head-on.

Communication

Having communication skills is essential to work with others to solve problems. You need to not only be able to express your thoughts clearly and concisely without causing offense or contention, but you also need to be able to listen to others as they express their views until everyone is on the same page.

Like communication skills, teamwork involves being able to work collectively with others to apply problem-solving strategies. Often, two heads are better than one, and the wisdom you gain from collective intelligence will make identifying underlying causes and finding solutions much easier.

Analyzing involves being able to break up a complex problem into smaller parts so you can examine and evaluate it to understand the problem better. 

You may find the root cause of the problem as well as contributing factors. Ill-defined problems are difficult to solve, so it is important to be able to apply problem analysis to any issue you are dealing with.

Time management

Time-management skills help you avoid procrastination and spending time on unnecessary tasks. 

You can develop good time management skills by setting goals, making daily to-do lists, prioritizing your tasks, and reducing or eliminating distractions.

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting is applying a step-by-step process to find the cause of a problem and then working your way to different solutions. 

Common, well-defined problems, such as those that occur in the computer science field or automotive industry, may have a preset list of troubleshooting steps to follow. 

Other problems will require you to develop a troubleshooting process as you go. Troubleshooting skills make you a valuable asset to any team.

When you take initiative, you do not wait for others to tell you what to do. You see a need and seek to fill that need. Often, by taking initiative, you can address an issue before a problem occurs. 

One example in the workplace would be to sign up for training that will keep you up to date on the newest developments in your industry.

Flexibility

Being flexible is an important tool you will use to solve problems. It’s an essential skill in all aspects of your life. When you are too rigid, you often are not able to see creative solutions and different strategies that can help make your life easier. 

There is often more than one good way to solve the same problem, and being open-minded will help you move from your existing beliefs to other effective ways of solving problems.

I know this is a long list, but you don’t have to do everything at once.

Even more, chances are you’ve already picked up some of these skills in your daily life without even realizing it. Keeping these skills in mind as you practice solving problems will help you become better at not only solution-finding but at everything you do.

10 Steps to Solving a Problem

In this 10-step problem-solving process, I’ll walk you through how to identify and implement the right solution to the problem at hand. In learning these steps, you will develop your critical thinking and elevate your problem-solving skills.

1. Take a Positive Approach

When a problem arises, it’s easy to enter panic mode or envision worst-case scenarios. Before you let your mind go there, take a step back and address every problem as simply another situation.

It is a challenge that you can handle, with the right approach. Part of that approach is thinking positively and creatively about the situation.

When figuring out ways to use creative thinking for problem-solving, I like to explore  how geniuses solve challenges . They think outside the box, keep an open mind, and take a systematic approach.

It all starts with thinking positively about the problem.

One problem-solving strategy I like to use is to think of it as a situation, not a problem.

Problems are a fact of life; you can’t control when or how they occur, but you can control your attitude. The more positive your language and mental process are, the more confident and optimistic you will be when approaching any complication.

How can you develop a more positive outlook on life? This mindset shift can take some time. 

You can’t snap your fingers and instantly become a more positive person overnight. However, there are actionable steps you can take to be more positive.

Start by focusing on the good things in your life. Yes, you have problems, but you have good things too. If you’re struggling to come up with anything that makes you smile, consider keeping a gratitude journal where you make an entry every day.

I also recommend positive affirmations and self-talk. Repeat phrases to yourself such as “There are good things in my life,” “I can come up with creative solutions,” or “I have good problem-solving skills.”

And of course, it’s important to surround yourself with people who are equally as positive and upbeat as you’re trying to be. The same applies to all aspects of your life. Read positive books, articles, and social media posts. Listen to uplifting music, and watch videos and movies that leave you feeling positive and optimistic.

Remember that every problem comes with a solution already custom-made for it. You just need to find it, and you can by maintaining a calm, positive attitude and steadily progressing through the different stages of the problem-solving process.

2. Define The Problem

Problem identification is a vital step in problem-solving processes so that you know exactly what you are dealing with. What might seem to be the root cause of your situation may be something entirely different.

Also, defining the problem will help you gather data, analyze the issues surrounding it, and find a potential solution.

What exactly is the challenge you are facing? What about this particular situation is causing you stress and anxiety? You must clearly define the problem to resolve it.

Not only should you clarify what the problem is, but you should also see what caused the problem. If you can’t conclude the cause of the problem, you may need to meet with other parties involved to determine the root before moving forward.

Sometimes a clear root cause cannot be determined, or there may be several factors that are causing the problem. In these cases, you can still move forward in finding solutions by defining what is currently hard to deal with and what needs to be changed or solved.

If you are working with a group, it’s important to write and rewrite the problem until everyone agrees that the problem is clearly and correctly defined. Each person will bring a unique perspective that will help clarify what the situation is.

Identify important details that define that problem, and weed out information that is extraneous or useless so that it doesn’t distract you from your ability to solve it or waste your time.

It can help to ask the following questions:

• Who is involved in the problem?
• What exactly is happening that is preventing forward progress?
• When did the problem occur and how often?
• Why is the problem happening?
• How is it affecting workflow or people?

Write out the problem so that it is easy for you and everyone else to see exactly what it is. It may help to draw a picture, diagram, or graph to fully visualize the problem.

When the issue is clearly defined, the solution may be obvious. But you may never find the solution at all if the problem isn’t defined.

3. Use Creative Thinking

As I mentioned in the first step, geniuses solve issues with out-of-the-box thinking. So you need to see the problem from every angle before you begin moving down solution paths.

You should think: Are there other problems that are affecting this obstacle? If so, you need to address it first.

It can be easy to have tunnel vision when you’re problem-solving, but there are usually multiple things at play with any dilemma. Zoom out from the situation at hand and see all contributing factors to the issue and listen to everyone’s point of view.

Meeting with others who may be involved in the process can offer you more brainpower to shed light on the problem. That’s why teamwork is so important. You can work together to look at what the issue is affecting, what is affecting it, and how to solve it.

It might feel as if you can work faster on your own. But when you collaborate with others, you’ll be able to come up with higher-quality solutions.

In fact, statistics show that 86% of employees and executives say lack of collaboration or ineffective communication causes workplace failures.

Don’t be afraid to sit down with people involved in the problem to work things out. People outside the problem can also offer a valuable third-party opinion. Their advice and ideas may actually be more helpful because they don’t have a personal stake in the issue.

When discussing the problem with others, replace “No, but” with “Yes, and.” For example, if someone says, “I think part of the problem stems from a lack of communication within the team.” Respond with, “Yes, and it can also come from people arriving late to meetings.”

This approach validates what the other person is saying so that all input is accepted as valuable and ideas are not negated. It also gives you an equal opportunity to add your ideas and input.

Think creatively by looking outside of your industry or situation for solutions. While it is helpful to analyze how others within your field or circumstances have solved a similar problem, you might find helpful insight in looking at how companies or individuals in other walks of life that have seemingly non-matching characteristics have approached related problems.

Ask “what if” questions. This can often help you think outside the box when solving problems creatively. As you look at potential solutions, ask,

“Why not?”

“What assumptions can we get rid of?”

“What can we add beyond the expected solutions?” and similar questions to take a broader view of the problem and possible solutions.

State the opposite of the problem to get a different perspective on it. For example, instead of asking, “How can we encourage our existing customers to buy more products?” ask, “How can we discourage our existing customers from buying more products.” This process can lead to surprisingly effective solutions.

4. Brainstorm Possible Solutions

Part of addressing the situation from different directions is to come up with not just one but several solutions. There are likely to be multiple solutions to any single problem.

The first conclusion that comes to mind may not be the best one, but the more you focus, the more solutions you will find. That’s why brainstorming all possible resolutions is an essential step to  problem-solving .

If you’re brainstorming together with a group of others, make sure to define a clear goal for the brainstorming session before you begin. Allow people time before the meeting to reflect on the problem. This will allow them to come prepared with ideas.

Throughout the session, record any suggestions that come up. You can write them on a physical whiteboard so that everyone can see them, or simply jot them down in a digital folder. Share these notes with attendees post-meeting and assign any follow-up tasks.

Reserve judgment until after your brainstorming session is complete. Some ideas may seem ridiculous or impractical, but say them and record them anyway. The goal is to move beyond existing ideas and look at the problem and possible solutions from every angle. Sometimes, an idea that seems far-flung can begin a conversation and flow of ideas that lead to the best solution.

Defining your end goal will help inspire unique ways you can get there. It can also help to pose the problem as a question and come up with conclusions to that question. Use the examples offered earlier of who, what, when, where, and how questions to get you started.

5. Find The Best Solution 

Now, not all possible solutions you outlined will be a good fit. You should be able to narrow down each method and see which is the most effective for your issue.

After brainstorming all potential solutions, ask yourself, “What solution will likely produce the best outcome?”

Do this by comparing each of the results with the one you believe to be the most ideal. Which one is the best under the current circumstances? What will successfully solve the problem? Which one will lead to a better outcome in the future? What will prevent further problems? Is there more than one solution that we should apply for the best results?

It might take some time to work through each of your potential solutions. Some will quickly weed themselves out. In other cases, though, don’t be afraid to spend some time thinking about how a given solution would work.

Identify the pros and cons or benefits and costs of each solution to help you determine which one or more is best.

After looking in-depth at the various approaches, decide on the best solution for the situation.

6. Expect the Best and Prepare for the Worst

Before you jump at the chance to solve your problem with the best-fit solution, consider the repercussions of the solution. 

Now is the time to jump to worst-case scenarios. What will happen if the solution fails? Knowing the answer to this will allow you to prepare if it doesn’t resolve your dilemma.

Even if at first you don’t succeed, you will learn something in the end. Don’t take it as a failure but as a learning opportunity.

Accept that it didn’t work and try something new. Determine what didn’t work and why to come up with additional possible strategies. Thankfully, you already have a list of alternative solutions that can help you find the right one.

Preparing for the worst is not about thinking negatively. Remember, the power of positive thinking will allow you to uncover more solutions. If you can train your mind to think this way, the more solution-oriented you will become.

Instead, thinking through worst-case scenarios is simply being realistic. This allows you to create a Plan B. 

If one solution doesn’t work, which solution will you try next? Come up with a backup plan. You might move on to the next solution on your shortlist, or you might tweak things and continue working with your #1 idea.

Preparing for the worst allows you to end up with the best possible solution.

7. Set a Deadline

The next of my 10 problem-solving strategies is to create a timeframe for your solution. Determine:

• When to implement the solution
• How long it will take to complete
• When you expect to see results

What actions are necessary to meet this deadline, and who will be accomplishing it? List out the tasks needed and assign each one to an appropriate person.

It’s important to not only set a deadline, but also place standards on how you will measure its success. How will you know that you’re making progress, or in other words, what will be your key performance indicators (KPIs)? How will you compare the success of this solution against the success of another?

Determine what key performance indicators will allow you to measure the success of your outcomes and set a series of short-term deadlines to report. Clearly communicate these benchmarks with everyone involved.

Make sure people understand how you’re choosing to measure success so they can be successful by your standards.

8. Take Responsibility

Now that you’ve found the solution to the problem that you want to implement, consider how it will impact the situation if it works or if it doesn’t.

If your outcome doesn’t work, that’s okay, but it is your job to accept responsibility. Be ready to admit any mistakes and continue working to make things right.

Some of the most creative ideas never transpire because no one is assigned the authority to carry out the decision.

Taking responsibility for your decision doesn’t necessarily mean you need to be the one to implement it. There may be various people involved in the problem and different jobs required to accomplish the solution.

By taking responsibility for the decision you make, you’ll ensure that everyone involved knows what job they need to do, when they need to do it, and how the successful or unsuccessful completion of that job is defined.

9. Solve the Problem

Now, it’s finally time to take action.

Execute your solution so you can reach your defined goals and learn what works best. Continue communicating with everyone on board as you all work together to solve the problem.

However, not every problem will be solved easily.

You may encounter additional obstacles as you attempt to solve the initial problem. You can overcome any drawback by tapping into your creative mind and taking action consistently and persistently until you reach your goal.

As you work hard, you can develop your capacity to achieve more in the future. Every time you successfully solve a problem, you are developing your analytical skills, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities. You’re also increasing your confidence.

Next time you need to solve a problem, you can look back on the successful jobs you’ve done before.

10. Track Your Results

The final step of my  problem-solving process is to track the results. Using the deadlines, KPIs, and scheduled reports you set in step seven will let you know immediately if you’re on track or falling behind.

When you reach your deadline, ask yourself if you met the goals you set out to achieve.

What worked and what didn’t work? Did you solve the problem? Did you solve it with the approach and timeframe you expected?

Answering these questions will allow you to understand if you need to take further action and help you improve your problem-solving methods for the future.

The best way to learn to problem solve is to simply do it. Jump in with both feet and start coming up with potential solutions to issues that need fixing. Over time, you’ll learn about problem-solving without even realizing it.

However, in addition to learning “on the job,” you can also take courses to help boost your skills. 

Studying subjects like project management or data analysis is a good way to help you succeed in identifying problems, thinking of better solutions, and leading others with good communication as you work together to put your solutions in place.

Bonus: Further Problem-Solving Strategies

More good news: The process outlined above isn’t the only way to solve complex problems. In fact, there are many strategies you can implement for solving a problem.

Here are summaries of a few more problem-solving methods that you can learn more about:

The IDEAL process of solving a problem can help you look at situations objectively and remove the emotional aspects that can arise when a problem occurs. It works especially well for problems that may not seem to have a clear cause or may need more than one solution. The steps involve:

• Identifying the problem
• Defining what the problem is and the desired outcome
• Exploring possible solutions
• Acting on a solution
• Looking back to evaluate the effectiveness of the solution

Root Cause Analysis

Root cause analysis is actually a set of various problem-solving processes that aim to identify the main cause of a problem so that you can find appropriate solutions. The purpose of root cause analysis is to get to the root of a problem and prevent further difficulties instead of treating the symptoms of a problem.

At the same time, this approach to solving complex problems recognizes that there is value in treating symptoms for short-term relief while the larger problem-finding process is going on.

It also assumes that there can be more than one root cause and focuses on how and why a problem occurs instead of who causes it.

This method provides a structured approach to solving a complex problem, especially those that do not have a clear solution. Simplex problem-solving involves eight steps:

• Problem finding: Identifying what the problem is
• Fact-finding: Collecting information and data about the problem
• Problem definition: Clearly define the complex problem so you know what you are solving
• Idea finding: Generating possible solutions to the problem
• Evaluation and Selection: Choosing the solution that seems to like it will best address the complex problem
• Planning: Deciding how you will implement the solution
• Sell the idea: Get stakeholders on board with implementing the solution
• Action: Carrying out the solution

Appreciative Inquiry

Appreciative inquiry looks at a problem from a different angle, or not at all. It focuses on what is going right instead of what is going wrong. It is often best applied when a change is needed within an organization or individual. This approach leans heavily on cognitive science and positive thinking.

It involves five steps:

• Define the desired outcome
• Discover what our strengths are
• Dream of what would work well in the future
• Design a plan to make it happen
• Deploy the action

Six Thinking Hats

This approach to solving a complex problem focuses on approaching solutions in a balanced way. Using the six thinking hats approach, you will ask yourself a series of questions based on six principles or divide your team into six different groups:

• The white hat will focus on facts and logic (objective)
• The red hat will focus on emotion and instinct (intuitive)
• The black hat will focus on predicting negative outcomes (cautious)
• The yellow hat will look for positive outcomes (optimistic)
• The green hat will focus on reducing criticism and increasing ideas (creative)
• The blue hat will focus on management and organization (control)

The 5 whys is an example of a root cause analysis tool. The purpose of using this problem-solving technique is to find the exact reason a problem is occurring by asking a series of “why” questions. After asking why five times, the cause of the problem and its accompanying solution should be clear.

Start Implementing Solutions to Problems Today

You don’t need to feel overwhelmed and confused when a problem arises anymore. Stress and unhappiness are simply byproducts of how you respond to those situations. Instead, you can look at each problem or difficulty by asking, “What is the opportunity in this?”

When you enhance your problem-solving skills, you will experience determination and a sense of calmness when the next difficult situation arises.

While you may not know how to resolve most issues right away, you will know the problem-solving steps to take to uncover the best response: Define the problem, determine the cause, discover the best problem-solving technique, take action, and analyze the outcome.

Follow this process over and over again and you will creatively solve your problems. After all, an effective way to solve problems is a skill that you can develop with practice.

To help you enhance your success, download my free  SMART Goals Template . This resource is a good fit for someone who wants to achieve their goals and optimize their success. I walk you through how to set goals and plan ahead the right way. As you advance your problem-solving skills, you will experience more success in your daily life—for big-picture items and small ones alike.

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About Brian Tracy — Brian is recognized as the top sales training and personal success authority in the world today. He has authored more than 60 books and has produced more than 500 audio and video learning programs on sales, management, business success and personal development, including worldwide bestseller The Psychology of Achievement. Brian's goal is to help you achieve your personal and business goals faster and easier than you ever imagined. You can follow him on Twitter , Facebook , Pinterest , Linkedin and Youtube .

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What Is Problem-Solving? How to Use Problem-Solving Skills to Resolve Issues

Great businesses don’t exist to simply grow and make money. Instead, they solve the world’s problems , from tiny issues to giant dilemmas. Problem-solving is essentially the main function of organizations. An effective organization will have systems and processes in place to reach their goals and solve problems. If a company has team members and leaders who have poor problem-solving skills, that means they’re ineffective at one of the core functions of a business.

What Is Problem-Solving?

What is the general process of problem-solving, 1. define the problem, 2. brainstorm possible solutions, 3. research several options.

After you’ve come up with several possible alternative solutions, pick two or three that seem the most promising using your analytical skills. Then you’ll need to buckle down and do some research to see which one to pursue. Conduct your research using primary and secondary resources.

4. Select a Solution

In order to make the most objective decision:

5. Develop an Action Plan

When the right choice is made, and the solution is placed into the overall strategy, start developing an action plan . Lay out the “who,” “what,” “when,” “why,” and “how.” Visualize exactly what success looks like with this new plan. When working through the problem-solving process, write all the details down. This helps leaders construct action items and delegate them accordingly. Never leave this part of the process empty-handed. Your team needs a clear picture of expectations so they can properly implement the solution. And if everything works, you can use this problem-solving model in the future.

The Best Problem-Solving Strategies and Tools

One of the best ways to discover the root cause of a problem is by utilizing the 5 Whys method. This strategy was developed by Sakichi Toyoda, founder of Toyota Industries. It’s as simple as it sounds. When a problem occurs, ask why it happened five times. In theory, the last answer should get to the heart of the issue.

First Principles Thinking

When one engages in first principles thinking , they end up questioning what everyone just assumes to be true. It effectively removes those assumptions , breaking things down into their most basic elements that are probably true. It’s all about getting to that core foundation of truth and building out from there. Problem-solving skills should always include first principles thinking.

Steve Jobs’ Problem-Solving Method

What to do when a problem feels too big to solve.

Tackling a problem that feels too big to solve requires a can-do, positive mindset. In order to improve your problem-solving, you’ll need to take remember these steps. Imagine what is possible instead of focusing on what seems impossible. As you do so, you’ll become skilled in solving all sorts of problems while also improving your decision-making.

How to Resolve Problems In a Healthy Way

For those struggling with mental health, conflict can be overwhelming.

Posted February 9, 2023 | Reviewed by Lybi Ma

• Why Relationships Matter
• Take our Relationship Satisfaction Test
• Find a therapist to strengthen relationships
• Resolving conflict is possible when approached the correct way.
• Problems are stressful, avoid autopilot problem-solving.
• The other party has to want, or at least accept, a healthy resolution.

A big part of living a balanced and fulfilled life lies in our ability to avoid and minimize conflict. When conflict does arise, our ability to resolve it quickly and amicably has a big impact on our stress and happiness .

For some people, avoiding and resolving conflict comes with relative ease. For many others, conflict seems to be ever lurking around the corner, and we live in a perpetual state of unresolved conflicts. The result is a constant level of stress and wounds that don’t ever fully heal.

Healthy Problem-Solving

To help you on this journey of resolution and healing, I’ve developed a list of characteristics of healthy problem-solvers. Problems carry with them the seeds of both consensus and conflict.

Those who have had their self-esteem battered by emotional abuse can have difficulty dealing with problems because of the potential for conflict. Either they refuse to stand their ground and give in, or they turn every conflict into a do-or-die battleground of “This time I’ll win”!

There is a middle ground between these two extremes. Granted, this middle ground takes more time to accomplish, but it has the best chance of allowing both parties to remain standing at the end.

10 Tips to Help Resolve Conflict

Below are ten action steps you can take when looking to solve problems in a healthy way.

• Resolve to solve the problem, not to win. If you only want to “win,” you may find that you’ve won the battle but lost the war. Problems and how they are handled have short-term and long-term consequences. Be aware of both. Consider a strategy, not a battle plan.
• Face the problem. Plan a specific time for a conversation to identify the areas of concern and be prepared to offer options for solutions. Some problems won’t go away on their own. For those that won’t, I suggest facing them instead of avoiding them. As soon as possible, find a way to deal with the problem. Those left unattended can balloon out of control and are harder to address later.
• Be open to unique solutions. Usually, when I perceive a problem, I have an initial idea of how to solve it. Sometimes, though, once I hear different opinions, I change my mind about how to deal with the problem. I may have a good solution, but I may not have the best solution.
• Be clear on your boundaries . People can become emotionally heated when working through problems. Know your limits. Know what behaviors you are not willing to accept from others, or from yourself.
• Forgive yourself and others. When the boundaries are breached, repair them with forgiveness .
• Accept that life is not always fair. Problems, and the way people handle them, do not always seem fair. What is fair to one person may appear unfair to another.
• Deal with one problem at a time. There may be other problems swirling around, but you can realistically handle only one at a time. Don’t try to take on the problems of the world all at once.
• Anticipate a positive outcome. When you enter problem-solving mode, be optimistic . This attitude may seem simplistic, but it is enormously helpful. If you begin to tackle a problem thinking there is no good answer, how motivated are you to solve it?
• Believe in your ability to solve the problem. This concept goes with the one above but is a bit different. There is a difference between believing there is no answer and believing you have no answer. Trust yourself to find a solution.
• When working through problems, be aware of how you’re communicating with yourself and others. Problems are stressful , avoid autopilot problem-solving. Keep your head in the game and be aware of how everyone involved is dealing with the problem.

Each Problem Is Unique, But the Benefit of Resolving It Is Consistent

Each conflict is different. Your ability to resolve them lies, in no small part, in the willingness of the other person to want it resolved as well. There may be times when there simply isn’t the desire on the other side to find a resolution. It may make sense to step away for a while and revisit it later.

But finding solutions sooner than later is always the preferred outcome. Sometimes we may need to go beyond the 50-yard line to resolve an issue, even if it feels like we are doing more than the other person is. That’s okay. Finding a good solution, whether easily achieved or the result of months of difficult conversations, can bring peace and rejuvenation that can’t be truly felt otherwise.

Unresolved conflict can drain the mind and body of energy. Life is better lived when problems are resolved, and working in a positive way to find a resolution not only means good outcomes but a more positive journey to achieve them.

Gregory L. Jantz, Ph.D. , founded The Center for Counseling and Health Resources, and is a member of the White House roundtable on opioid abuse.

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Life Potential

13 common life problems and how to handle them.

In life, we encounter problems as we breathe. But it doesn’t get to us until we feel a major impact, and that’s when it becomes a source of concern, hurt, or sorrow.

Life problems, depending on their magnitude, can be clogs in the wheel of progress, and we may not be able to attain our full potential if we don’t learn to place our problems in the proper perspectives as suggested in Robert Schuller’s Tough Times Never Last .

In this article, I have identified some common areas where you will most likely face daily life problems as you make progress towards reaching your full life potential. I have also suggested practical approaches in handling, managing, and solving such problems.

But before we dive into the most common problems in life, you may want to first identify your greatest challenge in life at the moment — what aspects of life should you focus on improving first?

To do that, you can take the Life Assessment . It’s a free assessment that will give you an overview of all your life aspects, and help you understand your current obstacles better. Just take the assessment now and then go into my solutions below.

Discover How to Overcome Real Life Problems

When you’re facing life problems, it’s easy to feel like you’re the only one going through adversity. However, you are not alone. Here’s a list of problems in life that people face.

1. Financial Crisis

Difficulties in life are normal. We live in an uncertain world and a financial crisis may come at different stages of life. While you should always anticipate and prepare for a financial crisis , it may still catch you off guard or the magnitude may be far more than any preparation you have made over the years.

It could be that you lost your job or a major investment, got slammed with a lawsuit that threatens your savings, or have your livelihood be affected by a major disaster. So what do you do when you are in a financial mess?

To overcome a financial crisis , you will have to come to terms with the crisis. Acknowledge and accept the situation and begin recovery by setting your financial priorities right.

When dealing with real world problems examples, the next thing to do is to identify the cause of the crisis. If it’s due to a job loss, then your effort should be directed at getting a new job. If it is having multiple debts, look for ways to consolidate your debt so that your monthly debt repayment can be consolidated into one instead of being burdened with multiple payments.

You can also sell some of your assets to raise money to save the situation, or look for a better job if you are earning less at your current job. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from family and friends if you need to.

2. Health Crisis

Another major problem that might come up in your life is a health crisis. This is not far-fetched because our body systems work round-the-clock, even when we are sleeping. As a result of this, and if you don’t maintain routine health habits , health deterioration might begin to set in. Things might even get serious if you don’t attend to it early.

Just like other human problems in daily life, the first thing to do is to consider lifestyle changes. This includes cutting down on junks, eating healthy diets, exercising, breathing fresh air, taking some sun, etc.

Apart from lifestyle changes, you have to seek quality medical help and make sure you get different opinions about the state of your health so you can get the best affordable care.

3. Relationship, Marriage, and Family

There may not be anything as sweet as love and family life, but it can also be the source of pain for some. Human imperfections in a relationship can cause a major crisis in life. This has been a stumbling block to many on their path to fulfillment.

The best thing to do is to prevent relationship problems from happening, but if they do happen, you need to face reality and begin to take steps towards addressing them. This is one of the most common life problems so simply do your best to keep the lines of communication open as this can help in strengthening your struggling relationship . Talk about the challenges with your partner and look for common grounds.

You can also arrange to see a counselor together or read books that address the specific challenges you are facing. The worst thing you can do is to end a relationship and that’s only when you have exhausted all other options.

4. Workplace

The workplace is supposed to be a place where we dutifully render the services for which we’ve been hired.

However, it is not impossible to face animosity at work—dealing with toxic people who would rather not see any good in what you do. It might be caused by differences in background, attitudes, and unhealthy competition that can result in personal conflicts . This can create undue stress and reduce productivity.

When facing the most common problems in life like this, be as professional as possible when dealing with toxic people. Be kind and show understanding, and try to avoid personal confrontation.

You can even try to reach out to the persons and invite them over for a coffee and get to understand their worldview. This can help you to connect with them at their level so that you can avoid unnecessary stress for yourself.

5. Career Pressure

In your quest to become more successful, you will likely encounter work-related pressure. Such can come when trying to stabilize your career or climb the career ladder. It can also come as a result of overworking and having no life . Career pressure is one of the most common life problems.

Sometimes, it may be that the promotion you are working hard to get is not coming or positions you are qualified for are being offered to others. The pressure can get more intense when you find that most of your colleagues are moving ahead of you.

Check to find if you have personal or attitudinal problems. Some attitudinal problems can put you at a disadvantaged end. It may be poor communication, poor personal grooming, or poor relationship and networking skills. If it is any of these problems, then work on improving yourself in those areas.

You can also observe your colleagues who are succeeding and take note of what they are doing differently.

6. Unfair Treatment

We are in a world where some people often think they have some privileges over others and may want to exercise this thinking and treat others unfairly. If you find yourself in an environment where you are being oppressed or treated badly because of your race, gender, or current status, this can make you feel really bad and can also affect your psyche and productivity.

There is the temptation to decry your treatment, defend yourself, and demand a change immediately, but you should really wait for the right opportunity to do that.

When the time is right, reach out directly to the person or authority involved, and make it private. Meanwhile, you should be factual about the instances of your unfair treatments. Don’t just say that you are being treated badly; give several undeniable instances.

Once you’ve made your grievances known politely, keep being you. If things don’t change, you can cocoon yourself in that environment. If you have an option to leave, you can do so as well.

7. Emptiness and Boredom

When you are in a rut, everything becomes normal, dull, unproductive, and yet difficult to change. This can lead to feelings of emptiness and boredom. This may not seem like a serious life problem, but it can have a great impact on your life.

To overcome boredom and emptiness, break out of your routines, and deliberately create a new experience for yourself. If you can’t leave your job to find a new one, start doing other things that reflect your true passion. Sometimes, the things that give us the needed drive in life are not our day jobs.

8. Confusion

Confusion is described as a change in mental status in which a person is not able to think with their usual level of clarity. [1] . It is inherent in forgetfulness and lack of concentration.

This is one of the most pressing real life problems today. It can be caused by different things including medical and environmental factors. It can also be due to the experience of a loss, a heartbreak, or abuse.

Don’t allow the situation to deteriorate into something more serious. Try to snap out of whatever experiences you have had that are causing confusion. Seek medical help if necessary or talk to a psychologist.

9. Friendship Problems

We need friends in our lives to rob minds and hang out together and even help us when we run into trouble. But many people have found themselves in serious trouble as a result of the company of friends they keep. They’ve experienced jealousy, backstabbing, and betrayal of trust. Some friends have even used the information freely provided in times of friendship to betray trust.

Don’t open up on everything to friends. Keep some information only to yourself. If you notice that a friend is working against you, confront them with the truth. Limit your interaction with them or get rid of such toxic friends completely.

10. Haunting Past

We all have pasts, and we might have done some crazy stuff in the past before we began to live a more civilized and decent life. But sometimes, the past comes back haunting. It’s even worse when life problems of the past haunt you back and become problems of the present.

It may be that what you have done is now striking your conscience, keeping you awake at night. Or someone who knows about it is trying to use it against you, and it is standing in the way of your progress.

Be true to yourself and forgive yourself. If it is an issue with another person, you can reach out to the person to settle with them. If it is a secret that is now being leaked out, own up to it, take responsibility, and move on.

11. Safety and Security

You may find yourself in an environment where there have been unexplained murder, gun violence, police brutality, insurgencies, and other life-threatening situations. This can make you feel like you might be the next victim. What should you do in this situation?

Ensure that you watch where you go and keep your home secure. You can also get involved in a neighborhood community watch to collectively find solutions to the threat. If the situation persists, you can move to a more secure location.

12. Failure

Failure is one of the most common real life problems. It can bring disappointment and can also slow the pace of progress. But failure is also part of life, and we have to learn to deal with it. But what do you do when an experience of failure weighs you down?

You can read a book or biography to get inspired by other people’s success stories.

No one loves to grief but we can’t totally shield ourselves from it. The loss of a loved one is painful and, if not properly handled , can lead to an emotional breakdown.

Take your time to express emotions. You can also pen an emotional tribute to the individual. Writing can help us bring out the feelings that cannot be expressed otherwise, and it helps us breathe a sigh of relief.

You can also cope with your grief by helping them to realize some of their unfulfilled dreams or do something in their honor. Lastly, while you think about your loss, you will still have to move on, accepting the fact that life is transient.

The Bottom Line

Problems are what make life worth living. They help us adapt to become tougher as we adapt to different situations. Always remember that whatever life problems you are facing have solutions or, at least, a manageable approach.

Therefore, never allow real life problems to stop you from fulfilling your true potential in life.

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15 Impressive Traits Of People Who Are Natural Problem Solvers

Natural problem solvers possess a unique set of traits that make them highly effective at tackling challenges. From resilience to effective communication, these individuals exhibit qualities that set them apart in problem-solving endeavors. Here’s 15 remarkable traits that define natural problem solvers and help them excel in finding solutions to complex issues.

1. They’re extremely resilient.

Natural problem solvers are resilient people . They bounce back from setbacks with determination and a positive attitude, seeing challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. This resilience not only helps them but also inspires those around them to stay persistent and optimistic in the face of difficulties.

2. They know how to communicate effectively.

These individuals excel at clear communication. They express their ideas in a way that everyone can understand and actively listen to others, making sure everyone’s voice is heard. Their open and productive communication style fosters collaboration and a free flow of ideas within their problem-solving teams.

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4. They’re patient and don’t rush the process.

Patience is their virtue. They tackle complex problems step by step, maintaining a calm and composed demeanor even in tough situations. They work well with others, allowing colleagues to share their thoughts without pressure. Their patience creates an environment where everyone feels comfortable contributing.

5. They’re resourceful.

Resourcefulness is their strength. They make the most of available resources and find creative solutions when needed. They’re like problem-solving wizards, always finding a way, no matter the constraints. This resourcefulness not only helps them solve problems effectively but also encourages innovative thinking within their teams.

6. They practice empathy.

Empathy is a key part of their approach. They understand others’ perspectives and needs, making them great team players. They consider the human side of problems, fostering compassionate and effective solutions. Their empathy creates a collaborative and understanding problem-solving environment.

7. They stay organized.

Organization is their secret weapon. They keep details, timelines, and tasks in order, ensuring a structured problem-solving process. They break down complex problems into manageable steps, making their approach efficient and effective. Their organizational skills streamline the entire problem-solving journey.

8. They take calculated risks.

They’re not afraid to take well-thought-out risks. They carefully consider potential benefits and drawbacks, fostering a culture of innovation and experimentation. Their calculated risk-taking encourages creative thinking and exploration of new ideas within their problem-solving teams.

9. They’re humble.

Humble and open to feedback, they admit when they don’t have all the answers. They seek input from others and collaborate effectively, creating a cooperative problem-solving environment. Their humility and willingness to learn from others strengthen the collective problem-solving effort.

10. They’re always learning new things.

Learning is a lifelong journey for them. They stay updated on industry trends and new approaches, enriching their problem-solving skills and staying ahead in their field. Their commitment to continuous learning ensures that they remain at the forefront of problem-solving challenges.

11. They’re decisive and don’t second-guess themselves.

Natural problem solvers exhibit decisiveness in their approach. They are quick to make well-informed decisions, even in complex and uncertain situations. This trait ensures that they maintain momentum and progress steadily toward effective solutions.

12. They’re creative thinkers.

Innovation is at the core of their problem-solving style. They constantly seek new approaches and technologies, thinking outside the box to solve challenges creatively. This innovative mindset often leads to groundbreaking solutions that push the boundaries of what’s possible.

13. They’re detail-oriented .

Attention to detail is a hallmark of natural problem solvers. They meticulously examine every aspect of a problem, leaving no stone unturned. This keen eye for detail ensures that their solutions are comprehensive and error-free.

14. They’re genuinely confident.

Confidence is a defining trait that empowers them to tackle even the most daunting challenges. They believe in their abilities and trust their judgment, inspiring confidence in those around them. This self-assuredness is a driving force behind their problem-solving success.

15. They’re proactive.

Proactivity is a key characteristic that sets them apart. They don’t wait for problems to escalate; instead, they take the initiative to identify and address issues before they become significant. This proactive approach ensures that they stay ahead of challenges and maintain a proactive problem-solving environment.

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15 Typical Life Problems And How To Solve Them.

Tim Denning

Mission.org

All of our problems are the same. This is the 156th time I’ve written this fact (for those of you counting).

Problems are forever and we can’t avoid them. You’ll wake up tomorrow and have problems for breakfast. You’ll jump on the train and read a problem in your email inbox.

You’ll get to the office and get a problem smack bang in your pretty face!

The typical problems we face can be solved.

Here are 15 typical life problems and how to solve them:

You didn’t reach your goal..

Just because you set a goal, doesn’t mean you’re going to get it. Many of life’s toughest goals take lots of attempts. Some of the goals I missed are:

• Dream careers

• Girls I wanted to date

• Saving enough money to build a school in Laos

• Reaching 100k followers on LinkedIn

People who talk about success and personal development (and even write for a site called Addicted2Success like me) also don’t reach their goals.

The best feeling about reaching a goal is the journey it took to get there. If all your goals were easy, then you’d feel nothing at the end of the process.

Take the goal you didn’t achieve and try a different approach. Doing the same thing over and over to achieve your goal is the definition of insanity.

Your heroes miss their goals too. What makes them stand out is that they don’t give up. The fun of goal-setting is knowing that you’ll fail.

Someone criticized you.

If you want to make a dent in this world, then the critics will come out of the closet. The bigger your aspirations are, the more you’ll be criticized.

The number of critics you have is in direct proportion to your success.

“I had an entire blog post written about me saying how stupid I was. It felt like crap on day one. By day seven I’d made peace with the criticism and kept writing”

You can’t please everybody that you meet in life.

When you speak on a stage, for example, 25% of people will like you, 25% won’t know who you are and 50% of people will think you’re an asshole even though you’ve probably done nothing wrong.

Critics are not all bad. You can learn things about yourself from them too. The solution is to learn from criticism, not be afraid of it.

Your career got messed up.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur or a happy-go-lucky office worker, your career is going to get messed up at some point.

The definition of business is this: Moving from one problem to another and making money in the meantime to fuel your mission. Business is really just problem-solving.

• Redundancy could right hook you in the face.
• The business you founded could go backwards and even bankrupt.
• Your career skills could become outdated.
• You could get fired for making a mistake.

Your career is going to get messed up. Things you can never predict in your career are going to happen.

See career challenges for what they are: an opportunity to try something different. If your career never got messed up, then you’d probably stay in your comfort-zone for your entire life and never try something different.

The solution is to see your career getting messed up as a chance to grow. Getting made redundant could be the one reality that makes you want to create your own startup.

Having a customer leave could decrease your workload and create space for clients who won’t drain your time and make you no money.

You have financial troubles.

That crazy little thing called money will let you down at some point.

“I’ve personally been rich and poor multiple times”

Upon reflection, the time I’ve been the happiest has been when I’ve had the least amount of money.

Countless studies have shown that money isn’t what your life’s about. As humans, we seek meaning, love and our own version of happiness.

Money won’t give you any of those human needs.

That doesn’t mean money doesn’t matter; it just means that it shouldn’t be your main focus or something you obsess over.

Lack of money is a gift. When you don’t have money, you become resourceful and creative at the same time.

Lack of money helps you decide on what matters and what doesn’t.

If things get really bad, then you’ll likely prioritize feeding your family over buying another useless car that will never make you happy. You’ll take joy in the simple things in life.

The solution to financial problems is to see them as a gift and choose a meaning for your life instead.

You’re unhealthy.

Our health has become a real problem. We wonder why we feel tired, sick and get headaches. We’ll all experience health challenges at some point in our life.

How many health challenges we experience in our younger years will come down to food and exercise. The strategies for being healthy haven’t changed.

There’s no mystery around being healthy it’s just that we’ve become lazy.

Convenience powered by apps has overtaken our ability to do basic tasks and not binge watch Netflix every night.

Take ownership. Quit feeling sick and do something about it. Have some blood tests. Change your diet to be more plant-based.

Drink more water. Get your lazy ass to the gym 3 times a week for 30 minutes. Stand up from your desk every now and then so you’re not sitting for the whole day and messing your spine/neck up.

Whatever you do, take ownership of your health and quit being ignorant.

A relationship ended.

There’s less than 1% of people who met ‘The One,’ lived happily ever after, and never experience a breakup.

Even that 1% will have that relationship end at some point when either side passes away.

For the majority of us who don’t strike gold the first time around, we’re going to have to deal with breakups and the trials and tribulations of romance.

We’ll probably find ourselves in a toxic relationship for too long.

We’ll probably get cheated on at least once.

We’ll probably have our hearts smashed into a million pieces when we discover that someone ‘No longer loves us anymore.’

These are the realities of the human condition and our need to reproduce and keep our species alive.

Finding love is about understanding what love is not. You need relationships to end to find out what love really is. All breakups suck in the beginning until you grow and move on. Then, the solution to this problem is to find yourself.

Once you find yourself, the heart will be ready for love again. How you move forward from there is up to you.

You can try the good old fashion nightclub scene. You could go to Meetups. Or, you could start swiping left and right on a few dating apps.

“Have your heart broken just don’t let it stay that way”

You made a dick of yourself.

Geez, this one is an ugly truth for me.

I’ve made an ass of myself more times than I’ve had protein and veggies for dinner. Here’s a few just for laughs (and your entertainment).

• There was the time I tried to pretend I could be the Wolf of Wall Street and got laughed out of the interview due to not being able to explain derivatives

• There was the time I thought this girl liked me and tried to hug her while we were walking only to have her hate my guts

• There was the time I went out with friends and threw up on my friend’s couch after having a single shot of Tequila

• There was the time I did my first public speaking gig and messed up a speech about my own life which I’d rehearsed over 100 times

We could talk for days about how I’ve embarrassed myself over the years. We could even compare epic fails to see who’s are worse. This is not a game though.

We’re all going to go into situations with the best of intentions or all the experience in the world and still screw up.

Making a dick of yourself is a sign of courage. Courage is what is found in leaders and those who are doers.

Making a dick of yourself is an acceptance that you might fail in the short-term.

Those who fail in the short-term will eventually win in the long-term with practice.

“The opposite of making a dick of yourself is perfection.That’s a life where you think your shit doesn’t stink and you spend your entire day trying to impress everybody to eventually impress nobody”

Making an idiot of yourself is perfectly fine. What’s not fine is being perfect.

Someone messed your *shit* up.

Car, home or insert other material possession that doesn’t matter. None of these material things that got messed up are joining you in the afterlife.

You can’t bury the Bentley with you (although someone tried) so you can drive around with your great, great, great grandpa and do burnouts in the afterlife.

The stuff that is going to get messed up doesn’t matter.

What matters is that you don’t get messed up. What matters is that you take care of yourself so you can take care of others. Maybe when your junk gets messed up, you’ll realize that you didn’t need it in the first place.

You feel like your life has no meaning.

These moments where nothing makes sense is where you get to explore. We’re not born with a meaning for our life. Meaning comes from learning who we are and growing as a person.

The meaning for your life when you’re 19 will probably change from when you’re 51 and got three grown-up kids.

The quickest way to destroy your life is to believe that life has no meaning. A lack of meaning leads to depression, carelessness, drug taking and even crime at an extreme level.

If you feel like your life has no meaning, then it’s time to experiment. Standing still is not how you find the answer.

“Being intensely focused on one’s self only leads to more suffering”

A short-term solution to this problem is to experiment with helping those who have nothing. Spend time with people who’d kill to be in your position and get some perspective.

I’ve found in my life that the greatest meaning for your life is normally tied to finding something you’d be happy to do for free that helps others.

You feel like you can’t go on.

We’ve all had those days. Those deep and sometimes dark thoughts can lead to a place you’ve never visited.

Some failures in life hurt more than others. Some failures can’t be solved through a listicle post such as this one with a dose of inspiration.

If you truly feel like you can’t go on, then there’s another way.

Seek real help. These dark thoughts must be treated and sometimes the best medicine is to seek professional help through counseling, or for an extreme case, by calling Lifeline.

While I’ve never had suicidal thoughts personally, I have dealt with mental illness.

“There is a way to come out the other side, but you have to put aside your pride and seek help”

Please don’t become another victim of suicide by doing nothing.

Every day feels the same.

You wake up. You eat. You go to work. You eat. You come home. You eat. You go to bed.

Life can feel the same if you do nothing. It’s up to you to create variety and shape your habits into something more than a fixed schedule which makes you feel bored.

Days feel the same when there’s no purpose behind anything you’re doing.

You must find joy in the repetition. You do that by taking those reps and making them mean something. Add some variety in by breaking your comfort zone. Set a goal to do something wild during your day every so often.

• Travel to another country

• Talk to someone new

• Try learning a new skill

Even after trying something new, you have to get used to some level of repetition. Let that repetition become habits that serve something which can help others.

Your friends are screwing your life up.

Dump them. Divorce them. Delete their number.

Every relationship you have in your life is a choice. The people around us often hold us back. They fill our minds with limiting beliefs, stories and goals that give us no sense of meaning.

Friends can kill our dreams or make us believe something we never thought was possible.

Everyone deserves a second chance. Start by telling your toxic friends how you feel. Give them a chance to change with the new you.

If they refuse, take a break from them for a while. Ask yourself whether you want them in your life long-term.

‘Fitting in’ is what we’re taught to do. What I’d advise you to do is be you instead and that will attract the right people into your life.

You feel stressed.

77% of people in the US alone experience regular stress.

This young, previously blonde blogger has also recently learned about the effects of stress. I had a cortisol test and the doctor found the levels to be twice the normal range.

This stress led to brain fog, tiredness and a lack of mental clarity. Stress is also caused by what you let into your life. Having options can be a bad thing.

“We don’t need more; we need less to destress”

• Declutter your home and office

• Say no to more meetings

• Say yes to invites from people that make you feel like saying “Hell Yes!”

• Buy less material things

• Have fewer people in your life

• Listen to one podcast instead of many

• Read fewer books instead of every one that’s recommended on a podcast

• Have less recurring subscriptions

• Invest and save more money so you can stress less about unexpected bills

• Take regular breaks (quarterly has worked for me)

A fear is standing in your way.

There are so many common fears — fear of spiders, flying, public speaking, dying, career change, heights and maybe even a fear of expressing yourself.

Fear is a concept of the mind. Nothing is scary or not scary. Our mind makes that choice for us and provides meaning to everything.

Fear can be overcome and that’s why we love stories of battling with fear. I’ve famously spoken about creating fear lists and then knocking them off one at a time.

Smash the fear into tiny little pieces. Don’t avoid it. Don’t let it stand in your way any longer. Make a decision to overcome each fear you have and you’ll be unstoppable by the end.

Don’t let nerves trick you into thinking you’re fearful. We all get nerves, but we can still keep moving forward with nerves — I’ve even learned to use nerves to my advantage by using them as an extra energy source.

Nerves tell me I’m on the right track.

I’ve overcome my fear of public speaking and my fear of flying — my fear of spiders remains, but I’m working on that one :)

Real fear can be overcome through deliberate practice.

Dealing with the concept of death.

Last but not least, the old chestnut of death. Death is the one life problem we all have in common and can’t solve. Sorry for the bad news.

Death is going to take us eventually and it will take people you love through your life too.

“The solution to dealing with death is not to overcome it but to accept it”

Death can be our greatest motivator if we let it. Once you understand what death means in all of its darkness, you’ll understand life.

You’ll see death, not as a problem but a fact. That fact will change the way you see everything going forward. For me, it took several near-death experiences (almost being murdered and a cancer scare) to see death for what it is.

Death is not an easy pill to swallow. No short blog post like this is going to give you all the answers you’re probably wanting to know.

The only way I see of dealing with the reality of death is to go out there and live the best damn life you can, while you can!

Use your life to do something that gives you meaning and then you’ll no longer see death as a problem when it comes upon you.

Peace, love and respect — thanks for reading.

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Written by Tim Denning

Aussie Blogger with 1B+ views that made me 7-figures — Get my free email course: https://timdenning.com/1k-mb

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Problem-Solving Skills: Mastering the Approach in Academic Settings

In today's rapidly changing academic and professional landscapes, tackling complex issues with agility and innovation is paramount. Problem-solving skills are the cornerstone for personal growth and success in virtually every facet of life. Within the academic setting, students and educators alike must hone these skills to navigate the myriad challenges in educational pursuits and in preparing for real-world applications. This article delves into the critical elements of problem-solving. It offers a comprehensive approach to mastering these skills, providing practical advice for those looking to improve their capacity to address and overcome obstacles.

Key Components of Problem-Solving Skills

Identifying the problem.

The journey to effective problem-solving begins with correctly identifying the problem itself. Misidentifying an issue can lead to misdirected efforts and further complications. Thus, an accurate diagnosis becomes pivotal in setting the stage for a strategic resolution. In practice, this could involve asking the right questions, gathering relevant data, and considering all possible factors. Educational settings often employ case studies, requiring students to dissect scenarios to meticulously uncover the root cause of issues. Through various online certificate courses and interactive workshops, one can learn industry-specific methods for identifying problems.

Analyzing the Problem

Once the problem is identified, a deep and methodical analysis becomes essential. Breaking problems into smaller, more tangible components allows a clear understanding of the issue's complexity and interdependencies. Academic settings are fertile grounds for developing these analytical skills, often requiring students to use both qualitative and quantitative tools. Whether through mathematical modeling, critical thinking exercises, or hypothesis testing, academia pushes individuals to rigorously analyze issues before jumping to solutions.

Formulating a Strategy

Developing a robust strategy depends on clearly understanding the problem and its components. An excellent problem-solving strategy is innovative and logical, balancing creative and practical thinking. Successful strategies consider potential outcomes and entail a proactive approach to navigating unforeseen consequences. Students and professionals can benefit from actively engaging in strategic planning exercises, simulations, and discussions that stimulate strategic thought processes and decision-making skills.

Developing and Enhancing Problem-Solving Skills

Importance of continuous learning.

Continuous learning is not just beneficial, but a necessity for skill enhancement, especially for problem-solving. As problems evolve and become more intricate, so must the approaches used to solve them. Learning problem-solving involves staying current with new methodologies, technologies, and theoretical frameworks. This can be achieved through various platforms, from attending seminars and workshops to enrolling in online certificate courses focusing on critical thinking and problem-solving.

Use of Practical Tools and Techniques

Many problem-solving frameworks and techniques are available that cater to different scenarios and industries, such as the Six Sigma, Lean methodology, or the 5 Whys technique. Understanding and applying these tools requires more than theoretical knowledge; it demands developing practical skills through real-life implementation. Overcoming applicable challenges involves an understanding of the tools and an awareness of their limitations and appropriate contexts for their application.

Role of Collaboration and Teamwork

The most effective solutions often arise from collective brainpower. Collaboration is not just a strategy, but a mindset that brings diverse perspectives and experiences to the table, enriching the problem-solving process. In an academic context, group projects, peer-to-peer learning, and team-based research initiatives encourage students to engage in collective problem-solving, fostering an environment where teamwork is not only encouraged but essential. Building this collaborative spirit carries over into professional settings, where teamwork becomes critical for organizational success.

Real-life Applications of Problem-Solving Skills

Problem-solving in the workplace.

Navigating the workplace involves continually addressing conflicts, overcoming obstacles, and harnessing opportunities. Effective problem-solving skills are crucial for success in any professional environment. For instance, various case studies highlight how businesses employ strategic problem-solving to turn challenges into victories, such as Apple's innovative approach to product design or Toyota's successful implementation of the Lean methodology. Real-life examples serve as a testament to the power of these skills and as learning tools for those looking to refine their approach.

Problem-Solving in Personal Life

Equally important is the role of problem-solving in one's personal life. Thoughtful problem-solving techniques can greatly benefit interpersonal relationships, improving communication and understanding. Furthermore, these skills are instrumental in managing stress and personal challenges, providing a structured approach to dealing with life's inevitable hurdles. By integrating the principles discussed throughout this article, individuals can better navigate the complexities of their personal lives with resilience and poise.

To conclude, problem-solving skills are not just useful tools, but sources of empowerment in both academic settings and beyond. They equip individuals to address challenges with confidence and creativity, fostering a sense of capability. This article has provided a pathway to understanding, developing, and applying these skills, highlighting their importance and showcasing opportunities for growth through continuous learning and practice. It invites readers to reflect on their problem-solving experiences, share their stories, and continue learning and evolving in this critical domain. As we strive to master problem-solving, we unlock the potential for both personal betterment and collective advancement.

What are the key components of effective problem-solving skills in an academic setting?

Effective problem-solving in academia.

Problem-solving ranks high in academic skills. It integrates knowledge, critical thinking, and creativity. Students and scholars alike strive for proficiency in this area. Excellence in problem-solving requires several key components.

Understand the Problem

First, one must fully comprehend the issue. Misunderstanding leads to misdirected efforts. Grasp all aspects before proceeding. This step is foundational.

Break it Down

Complex problems seem less daunting when divided. Smaller sections become manageable. Focus enables deeper analysis. Attention to detail increases.

Gather Information

Knowledge is power in problem-solving. One must research extensively. Identify relevant information sources. Ensure they are credible.

Think Critically

Critical thinking underpins effective solutions. One must challenge assumptions. Evaluate arguments rigorously. Distinguish fact from opinion.

Creativity Counts

Creative thinking invites innovative solutions. One must think beyond norms. Explore uncharted territories. This approach can unveil unexpected answers.

Plan Methodically

A systematic approach is crucial. One must outline steps carefully. Prioritize actions logically. Efficient planning saves time.

Collaborate with Others

Two heads are better than one. Collaborate with peers. Share ideas freely. Group intelligence often triumphs.

Communicate Clearly

Articulate your theories well. One must present ideas coherently. Engage listeners or readers. Clear communication propels understanding.

Reflect on the Process

Reflection leads to growth. One must analyze outcomes. Learn from mistakes. Progress stems from reflection.

Adapt and Evolve

Flexibility can determine success. One must adapt strategies quickly. Embrace change when necessary. Static approaches seldom suffice.

Effective problem-solving in academia requires a multifaceted skill set. One must understand, dissect, research, think, create, plan, collaborate, communicate, reflect, and adapt. Mastery of these components distinguishes top problem-solvers. Teach these skills early. Practice them often. Encourage their development always. The result will be educated individuals capable of tackling complex challenges with competence and confidence.

How can problem-solving skills be integrated into a routine academic practice?

Why integrate problem-solving into academic practice.

Problem-solving stands as a critical skill. It empowers students. They learn resilience and adaptability. Such skills are invaluable. Their application crosses academic and real-world scenarios.

Steps for Integration

Identify Clear Objectives

Firstly, define your problem-solving goals. Know what outcomes you need. Goals should be specific. They should also be measurable. Assess improvement through clear metrics.

Introduce Real-World Scenarios

Use real-life problems. They make lessons relevant. Students engage more with familiar contexts. This enhances their problem-solving skills. They see practical applications for their knowledge.

Create a Supportive Environment

Encourage open communication. Allow students to ask questions. Promote collaboration. Shared challenges foster group problem-solving. This mimics real-life teamwork.

Simulate Challenges

Bring challenges into the classroom. Simulate difficult problems. Use case studies, puzzles, and games. These tools make practice enjoyable. They also build critical thinking.

Teach Techniques

Introduce problem-solving frameworks. These include the scientific method, design thinking, and others. Such techniques guide thinking. They provide structured approaches to problem-solving.

Incorporate Reflection

Reflect on the problem-solving process. Ask students to consider their methods. Evaluating their approaches teaches self-awareness. It also develops their metacognitive skills.

Encourage Persistence

Reward effort, not just correct solutions. Problem-solving often involves failure. It is a learning process. Celebrate perseverance. Encourage students to try different approaches.

Use Technology

Incorporate tech tools. These can simulate complex problems. Students learn to navigate digital resources. They also prepare for a tech-driven world.

Assess and Adjust

Regularly assess problem-solving practices. Solicit student feedback. This helps refine the methods. Adjust strategies as necessary. The aim is continuous improvement.

Integrating problem-solving enriches academic practice. It prepares students for future challenges. These skills are the bridge between theory and practice. They are essential for success in any field.

What are some practical strategies for enhancing problem-solving abilities in an academic context?

Understanding problem-solving in academia.

Problem-solving stands as a pivotal skill within academic realms. It transcends disciplines. Students and scholars confront complex issues daily. Effective strategies can amplify their problem-solving abilities. These strategies serve as tools. They enable individuals to dissect and navigate academic challenges.

Embrace a Growth Mindset

Embrace growth . View problems as opportunities. Such a mindset fosters resilience. One approaches obstacles with confidence. Persistence emerges naturally. It promotes continuous learning and adaptation.

Build a Strong Knowledge Base

Cultivate foundational knowledge . A strong base proves essential. Mastery of fundamental principles aids in problem comprehension. One can connect dots easier. New information links to existing knowledge swiftly.

Develop Critical Thinking

Hone critical thinking . This skill is paramount. It involves analysis, evaluation, and synthesis. Apply it to all academic tasks. Question assumptions rigorously. Identify patterns and relationships. These steps facilitate problem-solving processes.

Practice Regularly

Practice regularly . Problem-solving sharpens with use. Tackle problems of varying difficulty. Seek out new challenges. Learn from mistakes. Feedback refines strategies and techniques.

Learn Collaboratively

Work with peers . Collaboration brings diverse perspectives. Groups can brainstorm effectively. They combine individual strengths. This leads to innovative solutions.

Apply Metacognitive Strategies

Reflect on processes . Metacognition involves thinking about one's thinking. Assess strategies used. Consider their effectiveness. Adjust methods accordingly. This self-reflection enhances problem-solving skills over time.

Seek Multidisciplinary Approaches

Integrate knowledge . Draw from multiple disciplines. Interdisciplinary perspectives offer rich insights. Creative solutions often surface at intersections.

Foster Time Management Skills

Manage time well . Allocate specific periods for problem-solving tasks. Avoid procrastination. Prioritize effectively. Timely task management ensures sustained focus. It reduces hurried, less thorough work.

Utilize Technological Tools

Leverage technology . Use software and online resources. They provide access to vast information. Technology aids in organizing thoughts efficiently. Data analysis becomes more manageable.

Engage in Self-Care

Prioritize well-being . Adequate rest, nutrition, and exercise cannot be understated. They maintain cognitive functions. Stress reduction supports clearer thinking.

Teach Others

Explain concepts to others . Teaching reinforces one’s understanding. It uncovers gaps in knowledge. Conveying ideas clearly is essential. It sharpens one’s ability to solve problems.

Stay Curious

Remain curious . Crave new knowledge. Pursue questions eagerly. Curiosity breeds deeper understanding. It drives one to explore problems thoroughly.

Challenge Yourself

Push personal limits . Step outside comfort zones. Confront challenging problems. Unfamiliar situations stimulate learning. Growth often follows discomfort.

Establish Clear Objectives

Set specific goals . Clear objectives guide efforts. They focus attention on relevant aspects. Goals break down problems into manageable components.

Be Resourceful

Maximize available resources . Seek help when necessary. Use libraries, online databases, and labs. Engage with tutors or mentors. Resources can offer insights or solutions.

Summarize and Synthesize

Sum up learning . Condense complex information. Create summaries. This solidifies understanding. Synthesis combines elements from various sources.

The discussed strategies represent a roadmap to enhanced problem-solving. Consistent application begets competence and acuity. Academic challenges become less daunting. They transition into fuel for personal and intellectual growth. Adaptability and persistence are valuable byproducts. These qualities benefit individuals across all academic disciplines.

He is a content producer who specializes in blog content. He has a master's degree in business administration and he lives in the Netherlands.

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Examples Of Personal Problems And How To Solve Them

Everyone at certain stages in life has witnessed examples of personal problems and their negative effects. Being unable to effectively handle this situation can lead to poor performance both at the office and school. 

Here you will find examples of personal problems, the effects of personal problems, and how you can solve these issues. 

What are personal problems?

Anything going on in your life that can also interfere with your ability to concentrate and do your job properly is a personal problem.

What are examples of personal problems?

Examples of personal problems include relationship failures, poor health, addictions, legal troubles, job loss, or workplace toxicity . Personal issues can also include;

How can personal problems affect work?

These issues may not only interfere with your ability to do your job effectively, but they may also lead to the following:

How do you separate personal problems from work? 

How to handle personal problems.

Everybody has issues; even the richest person on earth faces difficulties in life. There are moments when these issues seem insurmountable and as though you might not be able to overcome them. 

How do personal problems affect students? 

Personal issues can affect a student’s ability to put effort into a course or their overall academic success.

These problems may include substance abuse, issues with one’s mental or physical health, and other personal issues

Do problems go away on their own?

Finding the source of a challenging problem and creating workable solutions requires learning problem-solving skills.

How do you develop problem-solving skills?

This phase is essential for successfully learning problem-solving techniques. You will be more successful in tackling a problem if your mind is ready to meet it.

Conclusion 

Personal problems can take a toll on the life of an individual. From a reduction in performance at work to strained relationships and a lack of tolerance for others. 

If you’re currently the one facing these personal problems, learning how to separate your personal problems from work and effective problem-solving skills are important. 

Learn all you can about problem-solving skills and how to effectively reach a solution to any problem you might face. 

You may also like:

Why do waiters get paid so little [+ how to make more money], navigating workplace norms: can you email a resignation letter, difference between roles and responsibilities, does suspension mean termination, moral claim: definition, significance, contemporary issues, & challenges, why can’t you flush the toilet after a drug test.

What issues do renters face? Price is just part of the problem

Priced out of affording a place to live. A new housing report from the Morrison Institute for Public Policy with Arizona State University finds the price of rent increased nearly 72% from 2010 to 2022.

The report estimates minimum wage workers would need to work 86 hours per week, or have more than two full-time jobs, to afford a two-bedroom house.

According to data from RentCafe , the average Phoenix rent sits at $1,522 although it can differ based on size and location. That's slightly below the national average.

Here's a breakdown of the average rent in other Valley cities:

• Glendale - $1,464
• Mesa - $1,489
• Peoria - $1,645
• Chandler - $1,769
• Tempe - $1,891
• Scottsdale - $2,043

But prices aren't the only obstacle facing renters. The Federal Trade Commission recently met with renters, renters' advocates, and researchers at an event held in Atlanta to hear about issues affecting renters.

At the top of the list is who's in charge. The group cited corporate landlords and institutional investors as a cause for rising rents. Gone are the days when rental units were owned by a single person, or a small company, and developed on a regional basis. Today, it's common to see institutional investors behind thousands or tens of thousands of units across the country.

The group also talked to the FTC about junk fees. Fees are a big complaint the Let ABC15 Know team hears about from Arizona consumers.

Viewer Thomas emailed us voicing frustration about his apartment's "covered and assigned parking" fee because Thomas says the apartment has neither covered nor assigned parking!

Meanwhile, Let ABC15 Know viewer Laura questioned being charged an "amenity fee" for things like valet trash and common area wireless internet because she says she doesn't use those.

A third topic brought up by the focus group is online portals. Few rentals have a superintendent renters can call to have issues taken care of. Many renters are now asked to use online portals for maintenance requests. However, the FTC states while it may look like help is on the way, renters are often left with units in disrepair.

Have any of these issues impacted you? Maybe you faced a major rent increase or an outrageous fee? Or maybe you're a landlord who made a change and saw success? We want to hear from you! Email your stories and details to [email protected].

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Broken AC? Resources for renters and homeowners to get help in the heat

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Astrophysics > Cosmology and Nongalactic Astrophysics

Title: desi data and refinement of standard recombination theory help solve the hubble tension problem.

Abstract: The values of the Hubble constant obtained from the data of the early and of the late Universe differ by 10%. Data obtained by DESI Collaboration can help solve this problem, establishing with high precision the value of the product of the Hubble constant h and comoving of sound horizon at the end of drag epoch to be equal to 101.8 Mpc. This value agrees very well with the earlier refinement of the standard recombination theory and the value of the Hubble constant H0=73.5 km/s/Mpc obtained from measurements in the late Universe.

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