Tips on problem solving.

You can acquire problem solving skill as you consistently practice certain techniques and strategies.

As long as you are living and breathing, you face several problems in your life. There are large and small hurdles that continuously challenge each one of us.

It is actually normal, sometimes necessary and even unavoidable to have a problem.

However, it is also the basis of interpersonal and communication difficulties.

When you are confronted with a problem, it is difficult to see the benefit or the opportunity for growth that comes with it.

This is because you are so accustomed to your immediate mental patterns of thinking and emoting.

Feeling uneasy, anxious, confused and having conflicting emotions are the most usual reactions.

As long as you refuse to expect something better from yourself, you will not believe in your problem solving abilities.

Changing your limiting beliefs about what's possible and developing a better plan of action are necessary.

So what kind of attitude do you need to mobilize your thinking cap and sharpen your problem solving skill effectively?

There are several techniques and strategies.

• Acceptance.

Accept that there is an issue that needs to be dealt with. Keep calm and confident and believe that there is a workable solution.

• Define and state the problem.

If you are unsure, get a general understanding of the issue first. Determine whether it is just one big problem or are there many smaller issues.

Write it down and break it down. Then, redefine the problem.

• Look for the cause.

Where did it originate? Is it from your assumptions? Could you have allowed your limiting thoughts to make it appear overwhelming?

Or is the environment or a specific individual contributing to it?

Look out at the relationship with your values, beliefs and perceptions. Does the problem keep recurring in your life?

Determine whether you need to adjust or correct yourself or the problem.

• Determine the possible solutions.

Search for alternatives, resources, and information. Check whether you need certain skills.

Think of the possibilities. Figure out the apparent and also unseen solutions.

Process the information you have gathered and check its relevance thoroughly. Give yourself several options to resolve your issue.

Evaluate the advantages and imagine a favorable outcome. Identify potential problems and obstacles and the shortcomings.

Prepare your mindset to accept change and facing resistance. Get yourself prepared to challenge your fears, doubts and assumptions.

Plan your strategy and approach.

• Make your decision.

Make your decision on the immediate action that you can take. Focus your attention and effort to work on your plan.

Problem solving is a process. If your effort does not produce the result that you want, try your next approach. Never give up.

Your creative problem solving skill will improve as you continuously activate your mind to find ways to overcome your difficulties.

It may take one action to solve a problem. It could also take several actions and months or years to achieve the outcome that you hope for.

You need to have the attitude that you have control over your personal growth and success.

With that in mind, you will have a better chance of making progress in your solving problems skill.

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