Having problems solving a problem?
Do you have a problem solving a problem? You don’t know where to start. The problem seems overwhelming. You are not confident you can solve the problem. Even good problem solvers sometimes have difficulty. If this is you, I have three ways to help you solve your problem.
Limit information to seven items. We all know the terms, “information overload” and “analysis paralysis.” When faced with too much information, we may get overwhelmed, and unable to think through the problem. Alternatively, there may be so much information that we find ourselves paralyzed by thinking through the options over and over again. One of my clients completed the EQ-i 2.0 self-assessment and she scored on the low end in problem-solving capabilities. As a strategy for action, her report recommended the following, “Our brains typically handle seven chunks of information, whether we are memorizing or deciding between many options; seven seems to be the maximum amount of information we can effectively manage” and, “if your decision is stressful, your mental and emotional resources will be even fewer, so you may want to limit yourself to three options.”[1]
Define the problem. Sometimes the problem is floating in your head and not completely clear. If this is the case, “Write down a precise and objective definition for a problem you need to solve.”1 Review and refine the words used to define the problem until you are crystal clear on what you are trying to solve. Let me give you an example. “My co-worker Bill is delaying the completion of our project.” This problem as defined does not give me enough information to get the project back on track. A better definition of the problem would be, “My co-worker Bill has missed two project update meetings, and we were unable to make important decisions that would keep our project on track.” Can you see how being specific allows you to solve the problem?
Start at the end. In this case, you know the problem you want to solve but don’t know where to start. The key is identifying the tasks necessary to reach the goal but in reverse. Let me give you an example. “My employee survey results report is due March 31st.” This is the endpoint and by starting backward you identify that you need to summarize the results, that you need the raw data, that you need to administer the survey, and you need to design the survey. Essentially, reverse project planning.
Whether in our personal or professional lives, we are solving problems daily and our ability to do that effectively and efficiently can be the difference between success and failure. Next time you are having difficulty solving a problem make sure you are limiting the number of options you are considering, have a good definition of the problem, and consider starting at the end and working backwards. Sometimes even in doing this, you may struggle which is where a life or business coach can assist. Book a free discovery session via my website if you need help.
[1] Copyright 2011 Multi-Health Systems Inc., All Rights reserved.