How to simply solve problems

November 15, 2017
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Accept the problem. This is the one I try to do first when I run into a problem and I use it almost every time. When you accept that the problem already exists and stop resisting then you also stop putting more energy into the problem and feeding it. Now it just exists (well, more or less, you might still feel a bit down about it). And you can use the energy you previously fed the problem with the energy that probably made the problem look bigger than it was to find creative solutions to the challenge.
Ask for help. You can ask people for advice on what to do and what they did in similar situations. But you can also ask for more practical help. You don't have to solve every problem on your own and sometimes it feels better to have someone by your side, even if it is just for emotional support.
If you just ask you may find that people will often be willing to help you out.
Avoid behaviors that make the problem worse. When you're having a problem with someone, first try talking to a person you trust; whether it's a significant other or just a friend, sometimes it's easy to do things that make the problem worse before you have the chance to make them better.
Break the problem down into smaller pieces. Solving a problem can sometimes seem overwhelming and impossible. To decrease anxiety and think more clearly break the problem down. Identify the different parts it consists of. Then figure out one practical solution you can take for each of those parts. Use those solutions.
They may not solve the whole problem immediately. But those solutions can get you started and might solve a few pieces of the it.
Find the possible solutions. Now that you've broken everything down and analyzed the parts and people, it's time to find the potential solutions to the problem. Don't rule any out at the start. Think of this as a brainstorming session. Everything is permissible at this stage.
Note the pros and cons and pick your solution. Once you have your list of solutions, consider the pros and cons of each. Be as specific as you can, as you're now examining the tradeoffs of an option. Every choice will have a price. It may be trivial, like placing a phone call, or might be more substantial--agreeing to a reduction of an owed amount to finally get paid. Know what you can live with and what you'll have to do to make the solution work.

