10 ways to develop and improve your problem solving skills

Good problem solving isn’t just about getting to solutions and satisfying stakeholders. It’s about developing and honing a mindset that allows you to think critically, develop better partnerships, design better solutions, and engage stakeholders. The Problem Solving Academy’s mission is centered on this very thing: To elevate how we approach and think about the world and it’s problems.

So in what ways can you start on the problem solving journey? How can you start this process towards enlightened decision making? Here are 10 simple steps to begin.

1. Embrace Curiosity

Curiosity is the catalyst of progress. Cultivate the habit of asking questions, not just about what you see on the surface but what lies beneath. Like a detective investigating a mystery, curiosity propels you to explore, understand, and unveil the hidden aspects of any problem. So, let your curiosity be the spark that ignites innovative solutions.

2. Break It Down

Confronting a colossal problem can be daunting, like facing a mountain that seems insurmountable. The key is to break it down into manageable chunks – tackle one pebble at a time. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, focus on dissecting the problem into smaller, more digestible pieces. In our Fundamentals Course, we describe this as factors-based problem solving. By addressing each component individually, you not only make progress more achievable but also gain a clearer understanding of the overall challenge.

3. Diverse Perspectives

Imagine looking at a breathtaking landscape through a kaleidoscope, each turn revealing a new facet of beauty. Similarly, approaching problems with diverse perspectives opens a world of ideas. Seek input from different people, with varied experiences and backgrounds. Whether it's a school project or a real-world dilemma, combining different viewpoints creates a kaleidoscope of solutions, enriching your problem-solving palette.

4. Learn from Mistakes

Mistakes are not roadblocks but stepping stones on the path to mastery. Embrace errors as opportunities to learn and grow. Just like a scientist refining an experiment, use each misstep to refine your problem-solving process. Analyze what went wrong, understand why, and apply those lessons to future challenges. Remember, the road to success is often paved with the lessons learned from failures.

5. Uncover the Root Cause

Imagine solving a mystery without understanding the motive – it would be like navigating in the dark. Being a problem-solving detective involves uncovering the root cause. Don't just treat the symptoms; dig deep to understand what's at the core of the issue. By identifying the root cause, you equip yourself with the knowledge needed to implement lasting solutions. So, put on your detective hat and unravel the mysteries that problems present.

6. Patience and Perseverance

Problem-solving is a journey, not a sprint. Developing patience is like cultivating a garden – it takes time for the seeds of solutions to sprout. Be persistent and don't get disheartened if results don't manifest immediately. Like a skilled musician perfecting a piece, refining your problem-solving skills requires practice, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to improvement.

7. Teamwork

Two heads are better than one – the age-old adage holds true in problem-solving. Collaborate with others, share your thoughts, and listen to theirs. Effective communication is the glue that binds a team together. Whether you're working on a group project at school or addressing workplace challenges, pooling diverse talents and ideas amplifies your problem-solving capabilities.

8. Stay Adaptable

The world is dynamic, and problems often morph and evolve. Being adaptable is like having a toolbox with solutions for different scenarios. Embrace change, be open to new information, and adjust your approach accordingly. Like a skilled chess player adjusting their strategy mid-game, adaptability is a key asset in your problem-solving arsenal.

9. Continuous Improvement

After solving a problem, take a moment to reflect on the process. What worked well? What could be improved? Like a craftsman refining their tools, use each experience to enhance your problem-solving skills. Continuous improvement is the heartbeat of mastery, ensuring that you evolve with every challenge you face.

10. Celebrate Small Wins

Every problem solved, no matter how small, is a victory worth celebrating. Acknowledge and appreciate your achievements along the way. Like adding fuel to an engine, celebrating small wins boosts your motivation and keeps your problem-solving spirit alive. It's the positive reinforcement that propels you forward, ready to tackle the next challenge with newfound confidence.

 Conclusion

Becoming a problem-solving master is a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and constant learning. Embrace curiosity, break down challenges, seek diverse perspectives, learn from mistakes, play the detective, practice patience, collaborate, stay adaptable, reflect and refine, and celebrate small wins. By taking these first steps in setting your mind aright, you’re better poised to solve problems and face any challenge that comes your way.