Problems are always going to exist in our lives, they are unavoidable. This is why having tried and tested ways to solve them is very important. Most people go into crisis mode every time they have a problem. This just creates more problems and chaos in their lives. So what can you do to ensure that you are looking at your problems in the right way?Also, creating a system that will allow you to stay out of crisis mode. Staying in crisis mode is not only bad for the problem but also not very good for your health. This in turn, affects how you manage the world around you. Including your relationships with your loved ones. Here are 5 Ways to Solve Any Problem and Stay Out of Crisis Mode!
Don't focus on the problem
One of the most effective ways to solve any problem is not NOT focus on the problem! It sounds counterintuitive but here is why the answer to your problem will not be in the problem itself. First, focusing on the problem creates a blindspot for new problems. It doesn't allow you to see other related issues that might come from the original problem. For example, Michael is a 45 year old Mechanic who just found out that his landlord will kick him out of his apartment in 30 days if he doesn't pay up on his back rent. The obvious problem is that he will be evicted if he doesn't come up with the money. Each day he goes to work, the problem lingers on his mind and he starts to make mistakes and soon his boss starts to get complaints from his customers about their car. As you can see, Michael started off with one problem and now he has created another one. The threat of losing his job and his income. The first problem will not get solved and has now created a secondary problem.
Instead focus on the solution
If we continue with our example above, if Michael focuses on a solution or solutions to his problem, he will be in a better position to do something about his problem. For example, he can take on more hours at work to earn extra money. Which he can use towards this back rent. He could also sell some unwanted items to create more cash as well. Or even get a second job on the days he is not working at his mechanic job. If you notice, having solutions to your problem and focusing only on the solution will allow you to make major advancement toward solving the problem. While figuring out solutions, it is also important to stay true to your values. Naming and knowing your values is a great way to stay in alignment and feel good about things. Read this related blog post, if you need help: 5 Ways to know if your values are aligned with your goals
Ask for help
Many people have trouble asking for help and this is one of the biggest detriment to problem solving. Having the courage to ask friends or family members to help you solve a problem is honorable. It is not the weak that seek help, it is the strong. The strong realize that they are limited by their own resources and seeking out additional hands or resources will help them to overcome their problem.
Brainstorming 101
A lot of people underestimate the power of brainstorming. They don't actually take the time to sit down and put on paper possible solutions to their problem or problems. Having a brainstorming session either with yourself or someone you trust is also a great way to focus on the solution and not the problem. In your brainstorming activity to problem solving, you can write down the pros and cons to every solution that you come up with. This way when you make a decision as to what to do, you can see visually which solutions make the most sense. Don't know where to start? Take our Free Action Brainstorming Assessment by clicking on the picture below.
Do nothing
Depending on the problem, sometimes, doing nothing can actually help you figure out your problem. We are always fooled into thinking that every problem has to be solved in a fast manner. This is simply not true! Some problems require you to steady yourself and figure out what to do next. Similar to the 24 hour cool off rule, which in essence says not to respond to any confrontation via email or phone until you have had 24 hours to simmer down. Same rule here, when confronted with a problem, if you have time to figure it out then use the time. Problem solving cool down will allow you to better brainstorm possible solutions.
At Next Level Gurus, we help our members focus on a solution- driven path that promotes their self- growth plan. We encourage you to incorporate values and solutions that DO NOT focus on your past. We encourage a mindset shift as part of your self development plan. Where you are right now is where you need to be. Fuel that with wisdom and an understanding that inaction is a product of knowledge not yet tweaked. Join our community by clicking the link below.