6 Steps to Positive Problem Solving

Whether we like to admit it or not, we all have problems. Even though some days we would like to stick our head in the sand and hope they magically disappear, reality reminds us that sadly, that won’t work.

The problems we encounter can be in any and every area of our lives. Whether it be at work, in our personal lives, or even with our own thoughts, it doesn’t really matter if they are big problems or smaller problems… a problem is a problem.

Even though it can seem like a daunting task, we’ve got six steps to help you along.

Let’s take the necessary steps to solve those problems and we want to lead with a tip.

You’ve probably heard this before, but it’s better when you write all of this down, especially when there is more than one person involved. Even if it is your problem alone, writing all of this down will provide some clarity and help you with things you may forget.

1. What is the problem?

Literally. In order to start solving the problem, you need to identify the problem.

Make sure you actually realize what the problem is. Is there really a problem?

When you identify, or define the problem, it helps you to really understand what the root of the issue actually is.

For example, if you say, “I hate living here and can’t take it anymore!”

Break down this problem of yours. Does that mean your city or your home? Goodness knows, you may have seen one too many dirty socks on your partner’s side of the room. Or, maybe the root of your problem is that you can’t take the cold winters anymore.

By taking a moment and focusing on the problem, you are forced to think about what the problem really is.

2. List all the different perspectives

First, what is your perspective? If this is a problem that you are having on your own, is there more than one angle that you can look at the problem from?

Maybe ask yourself how your partner or a close friend would look at this problem of yours.

If this problem is not yours alone, could there be someone else’s perspective that could be different than yours and is important to see? Or maybe even a whole team of people’s perspectives need to be taken into consideration.

For example, the problem is that there is a policy in place at your work that makes you and a few others unhappy. You think it’s a waste of time. Take a look at it from your perspective and then take a step back and look at it from the other people’s perspectives. Could it be in place for the collective good of your office? Could it be required by law and this piece of information wasn’t shared? It’s always good to look at the different points of view before you let the problem get out of control and create an even bigger problem.

3. Think of potential solutions

Yes, plural. There can be, and usually is, more than one solution to a problem. There may seem like only one because you are focused on the problem, but again, this is why you write down exactly what the problem is and the different perspectives attached.

There is likely more than one solution, from each of these perspectives. If we look at the policy problem, some solutions may be easier, like ensuring communication improves. Some may involve more time like a staff meeting or newsletter. It’s best to put down as many potential solutions as possible to avoid hurt feelings or making the situation more uncomfortable.

4. Evaluate the solutions

Now is the time to really look at each one of the potential solutions. What are each potential solution’s pros? How about cons? Which are easier or more practical? Rate the solutions based on this information and be honest.

Let’s go back to our dirty sock problem. A simple solution would be your partner putting in more effort to pick up their socks. This option would cost less than let’s say- throwing out all of their socks and forcing them to go shopping. Perhaps throwing out all of their socks is simply creating a new problem.

5.Make a decision

Sometimes making a decision seems like the most daunting task of all. Or maybe now that you’ve written down the solutions and rated them, it isn’t that bad after all. But now that you’ve weighed all your options, it’s time to make a decision about your problem.

You need to decide which solution is the best option overall and that makes the most sense. You will need to follow through with that choice, so be honest and pick a solution that is possible for yourself and if others are involved, then for the group overall.

6. Implement the new action

You are finally taking action and you do need to follow through with your solution. This solution needs to be committed to by yourself and any others involved.

Whether it be a change in behavior (picking up one’s own socks), a verbal or written agreement (communication guidelines), this is something that needs to be done.

And?

Did it go as you thought, and your problem is solved? Or do you need to go back and re-evaluate? That’s ok, the solution may need re-visiting after you’ve tried to implement one.

This just means that you need to go back to your steps #3 and #4, revisit your potential solutions again and see what response may prove to be better. The point is, you are working on solving your problem and that’s what counts.

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