
Before you start getting excited to begin solving a problem, there is a handy little technique I learnt that will help you decipher whether or not you need to problem solve your current predicament and it’s called the worry chart. Use these questions whenever you believe you have a problem and it will reveal whether you need to stop worrying about it and let it go or begin problem solving.
WORRY CHART
Is it happening now?
Yes – go to next question
No – let it go
Is it resolvable?
Yes – go to next question
No – let it go
Can I resolve it?
Yes – begin problem solving
No – go to next question
Can anyone else resolve it?
Yes – begin problem solving by planning how to approach them and ask for their help
(TIP: have a clear idea of the outcome you desire once the problem is resolved)
No – let it go
Now you are aware of when it is appropriate to problem solve and which situations you can problem solve for, here is a summary of the six key stages to masterful problem solving:
- Identify and clearly define the problem.
- Brainstorm Solutions – nothing is ridiculous at this stage!
- Rule out inappropriate solutions. Assess and write down the pro’s and con’s of each solution and choose one, or a combination of approaches, to carry out.
- Plan the steps to carry out the solution and have a plan B.
- Take action as planned in step 4.
- Review what went well and what didn’t and learn from the experience. If the problem persists, take action towards another one of your solutions.
Sounds straight forward I know, but in each step there are several things to consider which may not appear obvious at first.
Step One – Identify and Clearly Define the Problem
For example, what is the cause of the problem? Who or what is involved in the problem? Broken down as simply as possible, what is the problem? Is this a problem for you specifically or could it also be seen as a problem for others? These questions will not only define the problem more fully but also identify whether you will need others to agree on your workable solution.
Stay tuned – next week we will look at brainstorming and weighing up the pros and cons.
Have you asked yourself these questions when defining your problems in the past? How do you think clearly defining the problem would help you in problem solving in future? Please share your thoughts in the comments below to gain encouragement, support and insight from our community, we’d love to hear from you.
Exercises:
- Refer to last weeks list of problems and choose the problem you would most like to work on.
- Ask yourself the questions listed above and clearly define the problem.
Following using psychology to transform my life, I founded Accessible Psychology to help empower others to live the life they long for. My journey is living testimony that no matter where you are, absolutely everyone can apply psychology in order to lead more fulfilling lives.
Oh and I love Oprah, Marie Forleo, Tony Robbins and lovely people like you!