Using step-by-step problem solving doesn’t always lead to perfect solutions, but it increases your likelihood of resolving the problem – partially or completely. It might also help you feel more in control of the situation.
For most problems it is possible to find partial or complete solutions. Look for the best solutions and put them into practice. It’s important to not act on impulse, no matter how mad or upset you are: you might do something you regret later.
It is a good idea to ask yourself: What is the best thing I can do to resolve this problem? If there’s an obvious sensible solution, do it. If there isn’t, take some time to sit down and brainstorm some possible options.
Failure Mode and Effects Analysis helps you understand what works: for your problem, name all the things that are contributing to the failure, ask how often it occurs, list the actions you’ve taken to ensure it does not recur, then analyse which solutions worked.
The Pareto Principle shows that 80% of your results come from 20% of your causes. If you record why you’re late somewhere, 20% of your reasons cause 80% of the times you are late. Focusing on fixing these “vital few” causes means you’ll arrive on time 4 times out of 5.
One of the simplest causal analysis methods involves asking yourself “why” five times. You start by identifying the problem. “My house is always disorganised.” Then, you ask yourself why that is the case. You create a chain of inquiry that offers insight about the core of the problem.
Performing root cause analysis can help you identify the root of your problems so that you can eliminate the issue for good. “Causal analysis” is a method that can help you anticipate future problems, eliminate current issues, and develop an action-plan to resolve trouble.
Angry people are often that way because they feel misunderstood. Taking the time to listen may be enough to change their attitude.
Reactivity is the enemy of a calm and happy existence. Instead of developing sustainable strategies to address your problems, reactivity forces you to spend your days putting out fires. To solve problems, you will need to be proactive.
Our problems tend to stick around when we treat the symptoms rather than eliminate their causes. Our knee-jerk response to whatever troubles us may provide temporary relief, but the problem will continue to manifest itself unless we can identify the root.