Problem solving techniques

Step 2 - analyse and identify the exact problem

You will hopefully have completed Step 1 of my problem solving strategies.  You should now know whether you really do have only one or several problems.  You will have already gathered specific details about the problem(s).

Take a deep breath, take a break and make yourself another drink.  Then proceed with the following problem solving techniques as follows:

• Decide on your headings: either for every aspect of that one problem or the different problems.  Break things up in smaller parts if necessary.
• Draw a mind map or flow-chart, or draw the problem in whatever way makes sense to you.
• Include your resources under each heading.
• Think about whose problem it really is - it might not be yours, but be honest with yourself
• Write a short statement of the problem (this will help you to communicate more effectively with others)

Step 3 - the 10 point problem solving plan

Having completed another step, the next problem solving strategy is to devise a solution - finally.  I know this was ultimately what you were looking for.  However, problem solving techniques are wasted if you end up dealing with the wrong problem - one that does not exist or one that you create in the process of trying to solve it.

1. Decide what the ideal solution for you would be.
2. Decide on what you 'can live with'.
3. Decide on an alternative solution.
4. Decide on the steps you can make right now to bring about some change. This will help you to feel more positive and in control.
5. Decide who you need to ask for help.
6. Decide on what you think other people might need from you and check with them
7. decide who you need to have a conversation with, what you would say and when that might be possible.
8. Make a list with exact timings of your planned actions.  This is one of the most important problem solving techniques.
9. Set a review date to hold yourself (and maybe others) to account.
10. Sleep on it, but have a notepad by the side of your bed.  Just as you drift off you may come up with the most brilliant of problem solving techniques.  If you don't write it down there and then, you will have forgotten by the morning.

 You have now identified exactly what the problems and potential solutions are.  Perhaps have even broken them up in smaller parts.  The next problem solving strategy is to deal with the smallest/easiest one first, to help build your confidence.

Alternatively, decide to go for the big one the moment you get out of bed and … get it done!

Step 4 - review your problem solving techniques and strategies

There is no point in having a plan with problems solving techniques, if you don't review it.  You need to check against all your action points and their dates what progress you have made.

The following questions will help you to mark the progress you have made.

• What exact problem solving techniques have you used to solve the/part of the problem?
• Which problem solving techniques and strategies were successful and which were less so?
• What should I continue to do ? (That what works!)
• What parts to the plan could do with an update?
• Are other people keeping to their side of the bargain?
• What can you do to encourage/remind them?
• Set another review date

There is no failure, only feed-back!

Applying my problem solving steps and strategies

These problem solving techniques stop you from becoming 'flooded' when you face a problem that seems hard to figure out.  You can use all the above information to make a problems solving flow chart - at home, in your relationship or at work.

Take your time doing it and sleep on it and discuss it with someone you trust to help you uncover any blind spots.  This easy to use tool will help too.

You may also be interested in:	Food affects your mood!
Facebook problems Divorce tips Relationship problems Anger management tips Managing stress in the workplace Overcoming overeating

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