Whether it’s a problem in your work life or personal life, it’s easy to be dragged down by overwhelm.
You’re pulled one way, then the next.
You just can’t make a decision one way or the other.
Then, the mental fatigue sets in… oof, it’s exhausting and yup, we’ve all been there!
Problems arise, and you feel like you’re a sinking ship that can’t figure out quite how to deploy the lifeboats. Maybe none of the options sound good. Or perhaps all of them do.
Whatever the case may be, you may feel like you simply can’t think through your problems clearly.
You’re waiting for a sign, but there’s none coming. Maybe you even feel a little paralyzed. This isn’t uncommon, and you aren’t the only one.
Navigating problems in life can weigh you down, especially when it feels like they keep piling up.
- But what if you could get better at it?
- What if, like any skill, all it takes is a little bit of time and consistency?
Well, it’s actually quite possible. And you can do this all while listening to your intuition and sticking true to, well, you! Here are our top tips to help you improve your problem-solving abilities.
6 Simple Tips to Unravel the Confusion of Problem Solving
Tip #1: Start By Naming & Understanding the Problem
Before diving into solutions, we need to know what the problem is.
So, take a moment to reflect.
How would things look in an ideal situation?
This question can often help you pinpoint what’s wrong. At the same time, be realistic. Having unrealistic expectations of others won’t exactly serve you – or them.
And sometimes, what we think is the problem actually isn’t.
So, you also may want to ask:
Another thing that can be really empowering here: Understanding whether the problem is internal versus external.
An external problem, for example, might be a logistical issue – like not having enough time in your schedule, lacking resources, or facing someone else’s behavior or decision that’s affecting you.
Internal problems, on the other hand, often stem from emotional patterns, limiting beliefs, or self-doubt.
And the cool thing about internal problems is that they are 110% within your control. When you realize this, things can actually work out how you want them much easier.
And being able to distinguish between the two (internal vs external) helps you respond more effectively;
- external problems often require action or boundaries
- internal ones often call for reflection, mindset shifts, or emotional support
Tip #2: Explore Different Solutions
Find a quiet space all to yourself so you can truly listen to that inner voice. Make sure to grab that pen and paper!
Write the problem at the top of the page.
Uncover whether it’s internal vs external (as per the last tip). Then, begin exploring what is within your control. This means identifying actions, mindset shifts, or boundaries you can set – rather than focusing on things you can’t change, like other people’s reactions or past events.
List out at least three possible solutions, even if some feel imperfect.
The point isn’t to find the “perfect” answer right away – it’s to open up your thinking and build momentum toward clarity. Often, clarity follows action.
And make sure to think about your values here. Does the solution align with your moral ground and what you believe? This is important to feel aligned and at peace about it.
Tip #3: Create Space
Concentrate as hard as you might, but things aren’t going to materialize out of thin air.
In fact, taking a step back can be a really good thing.
So, don’t force it and make sure to take some space, even if you feel confident in one of your solutions. This can give you valuable time to reflect, seek out other opinions you trust, and maybe even play devil’s advocate a bit here.
Process and reflect, and continue with your day as usual.
Sleep on it if you feel that would benefit you! But make sure it’s quality sleep…. A bad sleep can actually lead you to make poor decisions that might not serve you. In fact, studies show that sleep deprivation can seriously impact cognitive function, including your ability to make decisions and problem solve.
Tip #4: Assess & Manage Risk
After taking some time to reflect, revisit whether the solution you’re leaning toward truly aligns with your values. A few other things to note:
- Will it have an emotional impact on you or others?
- What losses could occur due to this solution?
- What are the potential long-term consequences – positive or negative?
- Are you avoiding something out of fear, or stepping toward growth?
- What’s the risk of not making a decision at all?
Answering the above questions helps you weigh the practical risks and the emotional and ethical ones. That way, you can go forward feeling more grounded, intentional, and, ultimately, true to yourself.
Related Article: 17 Signs You’re Stronger Than You Give Yourself Credit For
Tip #5: Implement & Measure
Once you have a solution (or if you’ve decided no solution is best, then skip this!), implement, but also measure.
Notice how your decision and solution impact your emotions and others. Pay attention to your energy levels and maybe even the general environment (especially if it’s within your family or work atmosphere).
While there’s no need to go all black-and-white on this, such as giving it a pass or fail grade, you will want to learn from it either way.
- If all goes well, this is a sign that this solution may work again in the future.
- If not, it’s a sign that maybe there’s more growing to do here, whether that be internal work or figuring out interpersonal dynamics.
Tip #6: Practice, Practice, Practice
Practice doesn’t make perfect (there’s no such thing!).
But practice can help you get better at problem-solving overall. Learn to trust yourself in terms of making good decisions. We all make bad ones from time to time, and you can change your mind.
As Desmend Ford once said,
“A wise man changes his mind sometimes, but a fool never. To change your mind is the best evidence you have one.”
Related Article: Your Identity: Your Problems Do Not Define You – 5 Things to Consider
Problem Solving is a Skill You Can Strengthen
Thankfully! It’s not innate, and you can get better at it with time, effort, and practice.
In fact, improving this one skill can have significant benefits in all areas of your life, such as:
- communication
- work
- relationships
- even your sense of inner peace
The more you practice clear thinking, value-based decision-making, and mindful reflection, the more confident and grounded you’ll feel – even in the face of life’s inevitable challenges.
So, take your time and trust the process (and yourself!). And keep in mind that every problem is an opportunity to learn and grow!
Related Article: Need Better Communication Skills? 10 Simple Tips to Help You Practice