While recently pondering the steps involved in solving a problem, I came up with a simple means, at least for me, to articulate the process.  Once we have identified a problem and have chosen to seek a solution, there are three steps that we must go through if we are to find a solution.  First, we must educate ourselves about the issues and information surrounding the problem.  Second, we must make appropriate decisions based on the information we have learned.  Lastly, we must take action so that any decisions made can bring about the desired results.  When we are stuck in a problem and unable to resolve it, we are likely lingering too long in one of these three steps.

For example, think about the process of buying a car.  One identifies the need to own reliable transportation and chooses to find an appropriate automobile.  Step one, the future car owner needs to learn about the various cars available to them.  In the process, they must learn about the economics, strengths, and weaknesses of the cars in the market.  Step two, the car buyer needs to limit their choices and decide which vehicle they would like to own.  Step three, the car buyer must take action, go online or to the car dealerships, find the specific car they will buy, and sign on the dotted line.

At any point in the process, a person can get sidetracked if they linger too long at any one step.  As a result, they will constantly be looking for a car but they will never buy one.  The problem will never get solved.  I believe these principles apply to most of the problems we face. To solve a problem, we need to identify when we have gleaned enough information, narrowed down decisions, and must take action.

How well do you navigate the educate, decision, action cycle of problem solving?

• This topic was modified 6 years, 12 months ago by Kevin Mahoney.