Have you caught yourself saying that there could be no other
solution to a problem, and that the problem just leads to a dead
end? Have you sometimes felt stumped feeling that a problem
can't be solved? Did it feel like you had exhausted all
possibilities and yet you still have this large, unconquerable
mountain before you?
The pressure of having to solve such a problem may be
overwhelming, but don't worry. With some creative problem
solving techniques, you can see your problem in a different
light. And that light might just be the end of the tunnel that
leads to possible solutions.
But you must first accept that more than one solution to your
problems may exist, and that problems you thought were
unsolvable aren't unsolvable. With this optimistic mindset, you
can try to be a little bit more creative in solving your
problems.
First of all, maybe you can't solve your problems because you
haven't really taken a hard look at what the problem is. Trying
to understand the problem and having a concrete understanding of
its workings is integral to solving it. If you know how it
works, then you have a better foundation towards solving the
problem.
Try to identify the participating entities and their
relationships with one another. Take note of the things you
stand to gain and any you stand to lose from the current
problem. Now you have a simple statement of what the problem is.
Second of all, try to take note of all of the constraints and
assumptions you have about the problem. Sometimes it's these
assumptions that obstruct our view of possible solutions. You
have to identify which assumptions prove valid and which ones
need to be addressed.
Third of all, try to solve the problem in small steps. Solve it
going from general view towards the more detailed parts of the
problem. This is called the top-down approach. Write down the
question, and then come up with a one sentence solution, a
general statement of what will solve the problem. From here you
can develop the solution further.
Next, although it helps to think critically as you solve a
problem, you must also keep a creative, analytical voice at the
back of your head. At the same time, look for chinks in the
armor of that solution.
At this point, it also helps to remember that more than one
solution can be developed. Try to keep track of all the
solutions and their developments.
And keep this old adage in mind, as well: two heads are better
than one. When you or someone else comes up with a possible
solution, think creatively about how you could make that
solution work. Always be open to new ideas. You don't have to
tread through the waters alone. In fact, you can only benefit
from listening to all the ideas each person has, especially when
the person you're talking to has had experience solving problems
similar to yours.
Lastly, be patient. As long as you persevere, you increase the
chances that a solution will present itself. No one created a
perfect breakthrough invention the first time around.
So, the next time you see a problem you think you can't solve,
think again. The solution might just be staring you right in the
face. All it takes is just a little creative thinking and some
planning and work.
About the author:
Kori Puckett provides more self-help and success oriented
articles, which can be found at
http://www.KoriPuckett.com. Find
the missing link that'll finally help you get the consistent and
long-lasting results you want. Visit:
http://www.MindOverMatterSecrets.com
