How to Creatively Think Your Way Out of Your Problems

Have you caught yourself saying that there could be no other

solution to a problem, and that the problem just leads to a

dead end? Have you sometimes felt stumped feeling that a

problem can't be solved? Did it feel like you had exhausted

all possibilities and yet you still have this large,

unconquerable mountain before you?

The pressure of having to solve such a problem may be

overwhelming, but don't worry. With some creative problem

solving techniques, you can see your problem in a different

light. And that light might just be the end of the tunnel

that leads to possible solutions.

But you must first accept that more than one solution to

your problems may exist, and that problems you thought were

unsolvable aren't unsolvable. With this optimistic mindset,

you can try to be a little bit more creative in solving your

problems.

First of all, maybe you can't solve your problems because

you haven't really taken a hard look at what the problem is.

Trying to understand the problem and having a concrete

Try to identify the participating entities and their

relationships with one another. Take note of the things you

stand to gain and any you stand to lose from the current

problem. Now you have a simple statement of what the problem

is.

Second of all, try to take note of all of the constraints

and assumptions you have about the problem. Sometimes it's

these assumptions that obstruct our view of possible

solutions. You have to identify which assumptions prove

valid and which ones need to be addressed.

Third of all, try to solve the problem in small steps. Solve

it going from general view towards the more detailed parts

of the problem. This is called the top-down approach. Write

down the question, and then come up with a one sentence

solution, a general statement of what will solve the

problem. From here you can develop the solution further.

Next, although it helps to think critically as you solve a

problem, you must also keep a creative, analytical voice at

the back of your head. At the same time, look for chinks in

the armor of that solution.

At this point, it also helps to remember that more than one

solution can be developed. Try to keep track of all the

solutions and their developments.

And keep this old adage in mind, as well: two heads are

better than one. When you or someone else comes up with a

possible solution, think creatively about how you could make

that solution work. Always be open to new ideas. You don't

have to tread through the waters alone. In fact, you can

only benefit from listening to all the ideas each person

has, especially when the person you're talking to has had

experience solving problems similar to yours.

Lastly, be patient. As long as you persevere, you increase

the chances that a solution will present itself. No one

created a perfect breakthrough invention the first time

around.

So, the next time you see a problem you think you can't

solve, think again. The solution might just be staring you

right in the face. All it takes is just a little creative

thinking and some planning and work.

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Kori Puckett provides more self-help and success oriented articles, which can be found at http://www.KoriPuckett.com. Find the missing link that'll finally help you get the consistent and long-lasting results you want. Visit:

http://www.MindOverMatterSecrets.com