Self

Having Effective Problem Solving Skills Leads To Happiness

Problem solving and decision making are just some of the things that we are naturally called upon to do in our everyday lives. However, there are many problem solving techniques that can be used effectively to help the process and get through predicaments with ease and grace.

When facing a problem, people tend to get uncomfortable in the situation and wish that everything would go away immediately. They tend to pressurize themselves to come up with a right answer right away and if things go wrong, they tend to assign the blame on somebody else. But this is no way to find happiness. 

Problems become a problem because we need to find solutions and we are not sure how to do it. There can be conflicts on which choice is best to take and in the process, we feel uncomfortable and expect bad things to happen. By knowing effective problem solving techniques, we can be more organized and take on the problem one step at a time.

Identify the current issue

Before of thinking of the steps to bring about the perfect solution, you should first establish what the problem is and always remember that not everyone has the same perspective on the issues involved.

Take other people's interests into consideration

This is usually a step that many fail to follow. To explain, interests are defined as the needs that you desire to have satisfied by solutions. When solving problems, we fail to consider other options since we focus on one particular solution only. To avoid this, list down the best solutions possible that will satisfy other people’s interest too.

List down possible options and solutions

When working in a group, it is best to brainstorm so that each one’s creativity can contribute to the possible solutions for the problems. If possible, separate the list of available options from their evaluation.

Evaluate the available options

Write down the pros and cons of each problem so that you can find which ones should be eliminated. When everything is set, you can finalize your list of which steps to take to solve a particular problem.

Choose the option(s) to take

Before solving a problem, you will need to choose the best option that will meet everybody’s interest and at the same time, tackle the issue at hand. If possible, you can combine it with other possible options for a more effective solution.

Document the agreement

It is helpful if the agreement is written, so everything will be detailed and everyone will be aware of the implications set by the options chosen. Do not rely alone on your memory since it can be inconsistent and you can forget important details.

Effective problem solving techniques can take some time to master, but it can be used in all aspects. Whether you’re working to solve personal problems or tackle corporate issues, implementing effective techniques will take you a long way and resolve your problems. Take everything one step at a time so that you will be prepared for anything that comes up for you.

Moira Hutchison is a Mindfulness Coach, Energy Healer and Hypnotherapist at Wellness With Moira. Contact her at Moira@WellnessWithMoira.com 

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