10 Ways to Improve Your

Problem-Solving Skills
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 10 Ways to Improve Your Problem-Solving Skills

While it might seem like some people are just born with stronger problem-solving skills,
there are strategies that anyone can use to improve them.

That’s right, it’s possible to significantly enhance your abilities in this area — and the
best part is, most of these activities are also pretty fun!

Use these ten creative tips to improve problem-solving skills, develop more strategic ways
of thinking, and train your brain to do more.
1. Dance Your Heart Out
Did you know that dancing has a positive impact on neural processing, possibly developing
new neural pathways to go around dopamine-depleted blockages in the brain?
This means that if you engage in ballet or another form of structured dance, doing so
may facilitate convergent thinking. In other words, it may help you find a single,
appropriate answer to a problem. If you need help with divergent thinking (finding
multiple answers to a problem), engaging in more improvised types of dance such as
hip-hop or tap might just do the trick.

2. Work out Your Brain with Logic Puzzles or

Games
The winning strategy when playing chess, Sudoku, a Rubik’s Cube, or other brain-
boosting games is actually to work the problem backward, not forward. The same
strategy can apply to realistic strategic-thinking situations.

To build up your brain muscle and develop new problem-solving techniques, practice
some logic puzzles and other games.
3. Get a Good Night’s Sleep
More than any other sleeping or awake state, Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep
directly enhances creative processing in the brain. REM sleep helps “stimulate
associative networks, allowing the brain to make new and useful associations between
unrelated ideas” and are “not due to selective memory enhancements” such as memory
consolidation, which occurs when awake.
4. Work out to Some Tunes
A study of cardiac rehabilitation patients tested verbal fluency after exercising with and
without music. Results showed that when they listened to music while working out,
participants more than doubled their scores on verbal fluency tests in contrast to when
they worked out in silence. According to the study’s lead author, “The combination of
music and exercise may stimulate and increase cognitive arousal while helping to
organize the cognitive output.”
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5. Keep an “Idea Journal” with You

You’ll be able to quickly record important thoughts, write down personal experiences,
make sketches, and explore ideas when you keep an “Idea Journal” with you at all
times. Working out problems by sorting your thoughts on paper and then viewing them
more objectively is easier than having all your thoughts stuck in your head (and will
provide better problem-solving strategies).

6. Participate in Yoga
The powerful combination of body awareness, breathing, and meditation that is required
during yoga practice has been shown to significantly raise cognitive test scores. Other
results from a University of Illinois study include shorter reaction times, more accuracy,
and increased attention.
7. Eat Some Cheerios (And Then Think About It)
The Cheerios Effect is the name physicists have given to the event that happens when
the last few cheerios in a bowl always cling to each other. The cause of this occurrence
is surface tension.

The takeaway is that when it comes to experiencing tension while trying to solve a
problem, cling to those around you. Rely on others’ experiences and ideas, even those
from different career fields. Draw connections. Brainstorm. Work together to get the job
done.
8. Use Mind Maps to Help Visualize the Problem
Mind Maps, a visual snapshot of a problem and its possible solutions, can help focus the
mind, stimulate the brain, increase the capacity for creative thinking, and generate more
ideas for solutions.
Make a Mind Map by drawing your problem as the central idea. Add “main branches”
consisting of all the reasons for the problem. Use “sub-branches” to explore further
details.

Next, make a separate Mind Map of all possible solutions to the central problem. Add
“main branches” showing all the ways that your problem can be solved, such as
colleagues that can help, techniques you can apply, and other resources you can use.
Add “sub-branches” to further explore the details. Make a final branch with the most
suitable solution for the main problem. Use “sub-branches” for details.

Through this exercise, you should be able to see which “branch” or option is the most
practical, time-saving, and cost-effective problem solving method.
9. Create “Psychological Distance”
What is psychological distance? According to the construal level theory (CLT), it’s
“anything that we do not experience as occurring now, here, and to ourselves.” Some
examples include taking another person’s perspective or thinking of the problem as
unlikely.
Scientists have shown that by increasing the mental distance between us and our
problem, we’ll have an increase in creative solutions. This happens because thinking
more abstractly helps us form unexpected connections between seemingly unrelated
concepts, thus allowing our minds to increase its problem-solving capacity.

10. Play Some Soccer

A link has been found between our brain’s “executive functions” and sports success. When
in action, our brains are quickly multitasking between moving, anticipating, strategizing,
reacting, and performing. Doing all these things at once requires an enormous amount
of brain activity.
This can be related to our working world when we plan, reason, monitor our actions and
problem-solve all at once. Therefore, it may be concluded that when you play soccer or
any other fast-moving sport, you’re rewiring your brain to be quicker at thinking,
processing, and reacting to problems.

To learn more about to increase your problem-solving and decision making capabilities or
to receive training on applied strategic thinking skills, contact CMOE today!
Seven Steps for Effective Problem
Solving in the Workplace

Problem-solving and decision-making. Ask anyone in the workplace if these activities

are part of their day and they answer 'Yes!' But how many of us have had training in
problem-solving?We know it's a critical element of our work, but do we know how to do
it effectively?

People tend to do three things when faced with a problem: they get afraid or
uncomfortable and wish it would go away; they feel that they have to come up with an
answer and it has to be the right answer; and they look for someone to blame. Being
faced with a problem becomes a problem. And that's a problem because, in fact, there
are always going to be problems!

There are two reasons why we tend to see a problem as a problem: it has to be solved
and we're not sure how to find the best solution, and there will probably be conflicts
about what the best solution is. Most of us tend to be "conflict-averse". We don't feel
comfortable dealing with conflict and we tend to have the feeling that something bad is
going to happen. The goal of a good problem-solving process is to make us and our
organization more "conflict-friendly" and "conflict-competent".

There are two important things to remember about problems and conflicts: they happen
all the time and they are opportunities to improve the system and the relationships.
They are actually providing us with information that we can use to fix what needs fixing
and do a better job. Looked at in this way, we can almost begin to welcome problems!
(Well, almost.)

Because people are born problem solvers, the biggest challenge is to overcome the
tendency to immediately come up with a solution. Let me say that again. The most
common mistake in problem solving is trying to find a solution right away. That's a
mistake because it tries to put the solution at the beginning of the process, when what
we need is a solution at the end of the process.

Here are seven-steps for an effective problem-solving process.

1. Identify the issues.

 Be clear about what the problem is.

 Remember that different people might have different views of what the issues
are.
 Separate the listing of issues from the identification of interests (that's the next
step!).

2. Understand everyone's interests.

 This is a critical step that is usually missing.

 Interests are the needs that you want satisfied by any given solution. We often
ignore our true interests as we become attached to one particular solution.
 The best solution is the one that satisfies everyone's interests.
 This is the time for active listening. Put down your differences for awhile and
listen to each other with the intention to understand.
 Separate the naming of interests from the listing of solutions.

3. List the possible solutions (options)

 This is the time to do some brainstorming. There may be lots of room for
creativity.
 Separate the listing of options from the evaluation of the options.
4. Evaluate the options.

 What are the pluses and minuses? Honestly!

 Separate the evaluation of options from the selection of options.

5. Select an option or options.

 What's the best option, in the balance?

 Is there a way to "bundle" a number of options together for a more satisfactory
solution?

6. Document the agreement(s).

 Don't rely on memory.

 Writing it down will help you think through all the details and implications.

7. Agree on contingencies, monitoring, and evaluation.

 Conditions may change. Make contingency agreements about foreseeable future

circumstances (If-then!).
 How will you monitor compliance and follow-through?
 Create opportunities to evaluate the agreements and their implementation. ("Let's
try it this way for three months and then look at it.")

Effective problem solving does take some time and attention more of the latter than the
former. But less time and attention than is required by a problem not well solved. What it
really takes is a willingness to slow down. A problem is like a curve in the road. Take it
right and you'll find yourself in good shape for the straightaway that follows. Take it too
fast and you may not be in as good shape.

Working through this process is not always a strictly linear exercise. You may have to
cycle back to an earlier step. For example, if you're having trouble selecting an option,
you may have to go back to thinking about the interests.

This process can be used in a large group, between two people, or by one person who
is faced with a difficult decision. The more difficult and important the problem, the more
helpful and necessary it is to use a disciplined process. If you're just trying to decide
where to go out for lunch, you probably don't need to go through these seven steps!

Don't worry if it feels a bit unfamiliar and uncomfortable at first. You'll have lots of
opportunities to practice!
7 Steps for Effective Problem Solving

Below are concise descriptions of the 7 steps for effective problem solving.
This problem solving technique is commonly used by psychologists in the counseling process to
assist individuals in finding a solution on their own, and put it to use in a real scenario.

Step 1: Identifying the Problem

Ask yourself what the problem is. There may be multiple issues within a single situation. Make a list
of these issues and define why each one is a problem to you. Focus on behaviors rather than on
yourself or a person (Incorrect example: "The problem is that I am stupid.") (Correct example: "The
problem is that I easily allow others to betray or disappoint me, because I trust people too quickly.").

Step 2: Defining Goals

Try to define your goals specifically, while making them as realistic and attainable as possible. An
example of a poor or broad goal is "I want to be happy." First, define what happiness means to you
and what you can do to feel happier overall. Try to form your goals in the sense of actions you can
take to achieve the desired goal.

Step 3: Brainstorming

Take time to brainstorm possible ways to resolve the problem. Do not rush this process- People often
want to prevent and solve problems before they even appear. Write down all ideas, even the ones that
seem absurd or bizarre. Try to find 6-8 varying alternatives when resolving a particular problem.

Step 4: Assessing Alternatives

For every alternative you formed in the previous step, weigh the positive effects and negative
consequences that each solution would bring. For every and any option, determine its advantages and
its risks.

Step 5: Choosing the Solution

Carefully weigh all solutions. The best solution is not necessarily the option with the most pros
and/or the least cons. Think about what means more to you, which solution can highlight the positive
effects that matter the most to you, and which solution produces the mildest consequences. When you
decide on a solution, it is important to create a timeline of when you intend to achieve your ultimate
goal.

Step 6: Active Execution of the Chosen Solution

Don't worry about failure. In this phase, concentrate on the journey that will lead you to your goal-
don't worry yourself with potential problems.

Step 7: Evaluation

It's time to evaluate your success. If you were successful, congratulations! If not, no worries. Maybe
you didn't quite choose the right solution or the situation changed. You have definitely learned
something. Take this newfound knowledge, return to the beginning steps, and try again!
 10 Characteristics of Good Problem Solvers
Good problem solvers are good thinkers. They have less drama and problems to begin with
and don't get overly emotional when faced with a problem. They usually see problems as
challenges and life experiences and try to stand above them, objectively.
ByMichelle Roya Rad, Contributor
Professional psychologist, motivational writer

11/24/2013 11:27am EST | Updated January 24, 2014

This post was published on the now-closed HuffPost Contributor platform. Contributors control their own work and
posted freely to our site. If you need to flag this entry as abusive, send us an email.

Good problem solvers are good thinkers. They have less drama and problems to begin
with and don't get overly emotional when faced with a problem. They usually see
problems as challenges and life experiences and try to stand above them, objectively.
Good problem solvers use a combination of intuition and logic to come up with their
solutions. Intuition has more to do with the emotional and instinctive side of us and
logic is more related to our cognition and thinking. Good problem solvers use both of
these forces to get as much information as they can to come up with the best possible
solution. In addition, they are reasonably open minded but logically skeptical.
Some of the general characteristics of good problem solvers are:
1. They don't need to be right all the time: They focus on finding the right solution
rather than wanting to prove they are right at all costs.
2. They go beyond their own conditioning: They go beyond a fixated mind set and
open up to new ways of thinking and can explore options.
3. They look for opportunity within the problem: They see problems as
challenges and try to learn from them.
4. They know the difference between complex and simple thinking: They
know when to do a systematic and complex thinking and when to go through short cuts
and find an easy solution.
5. They have clear definition of what the problem is: They can specifically
identity the problem.
6. They use the power of words to connect with people: They are socially well
developed and find ways to connect with people and try to find happy-middle solutions.
7. They don't create problems for others: They understand that to have their
problem solved they can't create problems for others. Good problems solvers who create
fair solutions make a conscious effort not to harm others for a self-interest intention.
They know such acts will have long term consequences even if the problem is
temporarily solved.
8. They do prevention more than intervention: Good problem solvers have a
number of skills to prevent problems from happening in the first place. They usually
face less drama, conflict, and stressful situations since they have clear boundaries, don't
let their rights violated and do not violate other people's rights. They are more of a
positive thinker so naturally they are surrounded with more positivity and have more
energy to be productive.
9. They explore their options: They see more than one solution to a problem and
find new and productive ways to deal with new problems as they arise. They also have a
backup plan if the first solution does not work and can ask for support and advise when
needed.
10. They have reasonable expectations: Good problem solvers have reasonable
expectations as to what the solution would be. They understand that there are many
elements effecting a situation and that idealistic ways of thinking and going about
solving a problem will be counterproductive.
At the end, good problem solvers do not have too many irrational fears when dealing
with problems. They can visualize the worst case scenario, work their way out of it and
let go of the fear attached to it. Fear can make your logic and intuition shady and your
decisions unproductive.
Suggest a correction

roblems Or Challenges: Which Do You Have?

This is how I choose to see the bumps in life. Challenges are golden
opportunities to uncover other layers of the self, shedding light on those
areas that need healing. They take us to a higher level of our existence,
allowing us to raise our consciousness and seek balance, remaining centered
in the face of adversity.
ByDonna Levi, Contributor
Author, "The Healers Trilogy"

04/15/2014 12:03pm EDT | Updated June 15, 2014

This post was published on the now-closed HuffPost Contributor platform. Contributors control their own work and
posted freely to our site. If you need to flag this entry as abusive, send us an email.

When I hear someone say they have a 'problem,' it sounds like nails on a chalkboard to
me. I do not like the word, 'problem.' When I hear it, it makes me think that the person
who spoke it has already made up their mind to hang on to whatever it is and not let it
go -- that they have adopted the belief that a negative situation is now a part of their
identity... a health problem, a financial problem, etc. It has become something that
defines them.
I believe that we have 'challenges' in life, not 'problems.' Challenges are blessings in
disguise. They have an important purpose. They exist for our soul's pursuit of
enlightenment. Challenges are gifts that allow us a chance to enhance our lives, not to
worsen them.
By shifting our wording from 'problem' to 'challenge,' any situation can be repurposed,
opening one up to seeing it in an entirely new light.
Take a look at a few fundamental ways in which problems and challenges differ, and
maybe you, too, will start choosing the statements you make about your life more
carefully.
1) Roommates or Houseguests
Problems move in with you and don't leave. They are more permanent in nature. Your
normal life gets uprooted as you allow negative circumstances to take root in your space
and grow.
Challenges are merely houseguests. They are transient in nature. You cater to their
needs for a time, but continue to live your life.
2) Past and Future or Present
Problems take the mind into the past and the future, causing stress, anxiety, fear, anger,
depression, and resentment. Problems "cord" you to one or more emotions that can run
amok and steal your personal power. When a negative emotion takes over in a situation,
it's imperative to stop for a moment and take your power back from it.
Challenges, on the other hand, take place in the now. You know they are in your mind
only temporarily. Challenges only live in the moment and denote a current life lesson --
a teacher from which to learn. The lesson ends, and you move on.
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3) Attachment or Detachment
Problems are ego-based. The ego only wants to control. It has no interest in your
enlightenment. When you catch yourself saying, ' I, My, Me, Myself ' a lot, you've
attached to something and made it the focus of your attention and the more energy you
give it, the bigger it gets.
Challenges are based on surrender. You know there is a bigger picture unfolding, and
that you are in control of absolutely nothing. You are detached from your challenges.
They are not part of you. They have a completely separate identity. Viewing something
as a challenge gives you the ability to pull your energy back and recognize that your
circumstances are not who you are.
Problems bring darkness to our lives, but challenges illuminate our paths. Challenges
are like waves crashing one by one along the surface of the ocean and dissipating, while
the deep, still, ocean stays steady underneath... This is how I choose to see the bumps in
life. Challenges are golden opportunities to uncover other layers of the self, shedding
light on those areas that need healing. They take us to a higher level of our existence,
allowing us to raise our consciousness and seek balance, remaining centered in the face
of adversity.
Challenges are positive, and though they may seem disturbing at first, prove to be the
essence of why we are here on the planet. So the next time you're tempted to say you're
having a 'problem,' say you're having a 'challenge,' instead, and remind yourself that it is
in the chaos that the angels are doing their best work.
 The Seven Logs: Common Challenges We All Face in Life
November 22, 2015

1Shared

 Creating a False Identity on Social Networks

 If You're Feeling Sad, Ask Yourself These Questions
 The Emotional Curve
Life is full of challenges, and none of us is exempt. Situations we run into impose
vital challenges that often end in disappointment. Those who seek their
own happiness tend to overcome such challenges and improve their future
life situations.
Though each of our individual situations is different, there are some
common life situations that create suffering and challenges for many of us,
but through which we also learn and become stronger.
“With the logs of life, I have built my cabin.”
— Popular phrase
1. Family relationships
Unfortunately, not everyone can count on their own homes as a first line of stability and
refuge. Many home situations may have been negative
or toxic environments. If you are one of those people who didn’t grow up in the
best environment, don’t despair; you have the ability to reshape your future. In your own
home, focus on creating a healthy, stable, loving environment.
2. Disappointments in love
Few people can say that they found the love of their lives on the first try
and everything went as expected. Most people have gone through several
romances and heartbreaks.
Deception in love can lead us to be distrusting, but by allowing our fear to get
the better of us we’re denying ourselves the possibility of finding a partner who
fits with us.
That is why it’s so important to avoid this; don’t choose victimization after a
breakup. Turning your back on love, aside from renouncing to its risks, also
means voluntarily giving up on all the positive things which it can bring to our
lives.

3. Disappointments in friendships
Who hasn’t had one of those friends who, instead of treating you like a friend,
was someone toxic who would steal your moments of peace? Becoming
aware of that is painful, and undoubtedly it becomes one of many “splinters” in
our lives.
Learn from your disappointments, but don’t turn your back on the warmth
and intimacy of having a true friend. Social relationships are a basic and
necessary element for our stability.
4. Academic or career disappointments
Academic or career disappointments make us question ourselves and can be
damaging to our self-esteem. For example, maybe you thought you would
reach a certain goal, and if you haven’t yet you may see it as a failure.
Instead of getting down on yourself, take these moments as opportunities for
learning and growth. Have you pushed yourself hard enough? Did you have
trouble concentrating? Too many things going on at the same time?
Undoubtedly, if you analyze the situation surrounding the disappointment, you will be
able to see and understand what you must work on in order to be more
organized and improve your past results.
“If the body can eat things that are unhealthy and turn them into energy, the
soul can learn to do the same with the negative experiences of the heart. One
can learn from everything.”
— Oscar Wilde
5. Health issues
Unfortunately, health is not usually valued until it is lost. Only once we see
ourselves become weak do we start wondering why we complained so much
when we were healthy. But health problems help us to understand what’s
really important in life.
6. Financial crises
The economy nowadays is not in its best state, and for some people this has
been particularly difficult. You may not have hit financial ruin, but have seen
how your savings have been slipping away.
This is a difficult situation because it conditions other areas in life, as well.
Maybe you have been dealing with this very issue recently; with time you will
recognize the value of your material provisions, and you will learn to plan
ahead.
7. Existential crisis
Those “I don’t know who I am” or “Where am I going?” type of questions and
sensations constantly run through our minds. Don’t worry, undoubtedly you
have come to appreciate the calm after the storm. All these questions you
have fought to resolve have taught you, made you more adventurous,
and filled you with truth.
In any and all disappointments…Keep your eyes on the road, straight ahead. Fill
yourself with strength, not anger. You will be well on your way to building up
a strong emotional cabin, a firm fortress with strong foundations.
1. 1

Figure out what's holding you back. Sit down and work out exactly what stands in the way of your
goals. Get as specific as possible about what your goals are, and exactly why you are having trouble
meeting them. You'll need plenty of self-awareness to chart out a course of action. Try not to dredge up
your usual list of complaints, as this often falls apart into excuses.[1]

 If you said "I don't have enough time," think about how you prioritize your time and energy. The real
obstacle could be procrastination, careerism, or external events.
 If you said "I don't have enough money," this is also often about priorities. The more immediate
obstacle might be a lack of time or a lack of motivation, or you might need to learn how to make
money and save what you have.
2.

2
Think about your history with this obstacle. How long has the obstacle been in your path? What
behaviors or negative thoughts keep the obstacle alive, or prevent you from working through
it?[2] Answering these questions may help you identify the changes you need to make.

 For example, if you've felt "stuck" ever since you moved to a new home, there could be something in
your new environment or lifestyle that's affecting you. For instance, your distance from friends and
family could be sapping your motivation.
3.

3
Find similarities to previous obstacles. Take a minute to think about other obstacles you've encountered
in your life. Whether or not your approach worked then, learn from your experience as you approach the
next challenge.

 For example, if you previously burned out after an overambitious New Year's resolution, try to ramp
up more slowly this time.
4.

4
Determine what you control. Some obstacles seem beyond your control, so daunting that you have no
idea how to get through them. This experience is often paired with fear or another strong emotional
reaction. Take a deep breath, put pen to paper, and ask yourself what you can control.[3]

 You can control your attitude.

 You can control how much effort you put in.
 You can control your decision when an opportunity is offered to you.
 You can control your diet, exercise, and sleep schedule, which can improve your mood and
alertness.
5.

5
Analyze interpersonal issues. Some of the most frustrating obstacles are the ones that involve other
people. Emotions or gut reactions can cloud your judgement and make the obstacle seem more impossible
than it is. Try to break the problem down and discover what actually stands in your way:[4]

 Often, it takes both people to contribute to the obstacle. Rein in your own reaction with mental
"stoppers," such as a deep breath, or counting to ten in your head.
 Listen to the other person's problems, or try to think of them from his perspective. Solve what the
other person sees as an obstacle, and you may solve your own problems.
 In the worst case scenario, restructure your interactions to avoid situations where disagreements
arise.
Method Two of Two:
Overcoming Obstacles
1.

1
Break your goals into smaller chunks. No one can leap to the top of Mount Everest in one step. Shrink
that daunting mountain into a series of more manageable goals.[5] Write a checklist, then ask yourself
what obstacles prevent you from achieving the first box.

 For instance, if your goal is to become a doctor, one looming obstacle might be getting a college
education. After breaking it down, your new first goal becomes filling out a college application
form. Overcome your first obstacle by picking up a pen!
2.
2
Consider creative solutions. Once you've listed your obstacles, take a moment to think of alternate paths
to your goals. Is there any way to reach your goal while avoiding the obstacles entirely? These shortcuts
don't happen often, but it's worth taking the time to brainstorm.

 Talk to someone who's already attained the goal you're aiming for. She may be familiar with routes
you've never heard of.
 For example, many companies prefer job candidates from inside the company.[6] Maybe you can get
hired at your dream company for a less competitive position, and work your way up the ladder, or
transfer to a different department.
3.

3
Keep an active plan. Put your plan in writing, starting with what you'll do today and ending with
achieving your goal. Now recognize that your plan will change. This is just the first stage, which will set
your feet on the road. As you learn, grow, and encounter new obstacles, adapt your plan to find the best
path forward at each moment.[7]

4.

4
Track your progress. As you work toward your goal, keep a journal or chart of your progress and your
setbacks.[8] Set yourself several milestones along the way, and make sure to reward yourself for each one.

5.

5
Seek advice and support. Find people with similar goals, or encouraging friends. Make yourself
accountable by sharing your goals and milestones. Seek advice from people with more experience than
you, who may have overcome the exact same obstacles.

 There are thousands of people who share your career, hobby, bad habit, or relationship struggle.
Look for local organizations and online forums where you can talk about your experiences and trade
advice.
 6.

6
Break bad habits. Even if they aren't the obstacles you are trying to avoid, bad habits can set anyone
back. Treat these as a whole new obstacle, overcoming the habit with goals and milestones just like any
other.

7.

7
Visualize your goal for motivation. When you get discouraged, close your eyes and picture yourself
after you've overcome the obstacle. Remind yourself frequently why you're putting in the hard work and
making the sacrifices. It will all be worth it when you shatter the last obstacle at your feet.

8.

8
Hone your problem-solving skills. If you tend to make decisions based on gut instinct, try a more
analytic approach. Here are a few possible approaches when you're trying to make a decision:

 Cost-benefit analysis: Write down what you would gain from a decision, and what you would lose.
Decide whether the benefits worth the drawbacks.
 Worst case scenario: If you attempt something and it fails completely, where do you end up? Come
up with a backup plan for this scenario.
 Write a list of all your concerns, and treat each as a separate problem. Anxiety over a long-distance
move might include finances, losing touch with friends, and your child transitioning schools. Solve
each problem separately.
What Is Problem Solving?
Problems are only opportunities in work clothes.– Henry Kaiser
(American industrialist)
Having good, strong problem solving skills can
make a huge difference to your career.
Problems are at the center of what many people do at work every day.
Whether you're solving a problem for a client (internal or external),
supporting those who are solving problems, or discovering new problems
to solve, the problems you face can be large or small, simple or complex,
and easy or difficult.

© iStockphoto
Humpata

Find out how to solve your problems.

A fundamental part of every manager's role is finding ways to solve them.

So, being a confident problem solver is really important to your success.
Much of that confidence comes from having a good process to use when
approaching a problem. With one, you can solve problems quickly and
effectively. Without one, your solutions may be ineffective, or you'll get
stuck and do nothing, with sometimes painful consequences.

There are four basic steps in solving a problem:

1. Defining the problem.

2. Generating alternatives.
3. Evaluating and selecting alternatives.
4. Implementing solutions.
Steps 2 to 4 of this process are covered in depth in other areas of Mind
Tools. For these, see our sections on Creativity for step 2 (generating
alternatives); Decision Making for step 3 (evaluating and selecting
alternatives); and Project Management for step 4 (implementing
solutions).
The articles in this section of Mind Tools therefore focus on helping you
make a success of the first of these steps – defining the problem. A very
significant part of this involves making sense of the complex situation in
which the problem occurs, so that you can pinpoint exactly what the
problem is. Many of the tools in this section help you do just that. We look
at these, and then review some useful, well-established problem-solving
frameworks.
Defining the Problem
The key to a good problem definition is ensuring that you deal with the
real problem – not its symptoms. For example, if performance in your
department is substandard, you might think the problem is with the
individuals submitting work. However, if you look a bit deeper, the real
issue might be a lack of training, or an unreasonable workload.

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