what problem solving techniques do you anticipate using to address barriers to progress

6 Common Problem Solving Barriers and How Can Managers Beat them?

What is the meaning of barriers to problem solving, what are the 6 barriers to problem solving, examples of barriers to problem solving, how to overcome problem solving barriers at work tips for managers, problem solving barriers faqs.

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Lack of motivation

Lack of knowledge, lack of resources, emotional barriers, cultural and societal barriers, fear of failure.

• Lack of motivation: A person who lacks motivation may struggle to complete tasks on time or produce quality work. For example, an employee who is disengaged from their job may procrastinate on essential tasks or show up late to work.
• Lack of knowledge : Employees who lack knowledge or training may be unable to perform their duties effectively. For example, a new employee unfamiliar with the company’s software systems may struggle to complete tasks on their computer.
• Lack of resources: Employees may be unable to complete their work due to a lack of resources, such as equipment or technology. For example, a graphic designer who doesn’t have access to the latest design software may struggle to produce high-quality designs.
• Emotional barriers: Emotional barriers can affect an employee’s ability to perform their job effectively. For example, an employee dealing with a personal issue, such as a divorce, may have trouble focusing on their work and meeting deadlines.
• Cultural and societal barriers: Cultural and societal barriers can affect an employee’s ability to work effectively. For example, an employee from a different culture may struggle to communicate effectively with colleagues or may feel uncomfortable in a work environment that is not inclusive.
• Fear of failure : Employees who fear failure may avoid taking on new challenges or may not take risks that could benefit the company. For example, an employee afraid of making mistakes may not take on a leadership role or hesitate to make decisions that could impact the company’s bottom line.
• Identify and Define the Problem: Define the problem and understand its root cause. This will help you identify the obstacles that are preventing effective problem solving.
• C ollaborate and Communicate: Work with others to gather information, generate new ideas, and share perspectives. Effective communication can help overcome misunderstandings and promote creative problem solving.
• Use Creative Problem Solving Techniques: Consider using creative problem solving techniques such as brainstorming, mind mapping, or SWOT analysis to explore new ideas and generate innovative solutions.
• Embrace Flexibility: Be open to new ideas and approaches. Embracing flexibility can help you overcome fixed mindsets and encourage creativity in problem solving.
• Invest in Resources: Ensure that you have access to the necessary resources, such as time, money, or personnel, to effectively solve complex problems.
• Emphasize Continuous Learning: Encourage continuous learning and improvement by seeking feedback, evaluating outcomes, and reflecting on the problem solving process. This can help you identify improvement areas and promote a continuous improvement culture.

How good are you in jumping over problem-solving barriers?

Find out now with the free problem-solving assessment for managers and leaders.

What are the factors affecting problem solving?

What are the five key obstacles to problem solving, can habits be a barrier to problem solving, how do you overcome barriers in problem solving.

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Strategic Pathways to Goal Success: Purpose, Progress, and Overcoming Obstacles

Are you ready to embark on a journey towards achieving your goals? Just like a skilled navigator charting a course, you hold the power to create strategic pathways to success. By infusing purpose and progress into your goal-setting process, and by overcoming obstacles along the way, you can pave the way to extraordinary achievements. In this article, we will explore the transformative impact of purpose, the importance of making progress in manageable steps, and the art of overcoming obstacles. Get ready to unleash your innovative spirit and unlock your full potential.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Connecting goals to a why provides meaning and purpose, eliminating distractions and increasing motivation.
• Starting small and making gradual changes sets a foundation for success, avoids perfectionism, and builds consistency.
• Breaking down major goals into smaller tasks reduces overwhelm, increases progress, and allows for flexibility and adjustments.
• Overcoming obstacles before starting by identifying and planning for potential challenges increases awareness and minimizes their impact.

The Power of Purpose in Goal Achievement

Understanding why your goals are important gives them meaning and fuels your motivation to achieve them. When you connect your goals to a deeper purpose, you tap into the power of intrinsic motivation. It’s about finding meaning in your goals and understanding how they align with your values and aspirations. This sense of purpose provides a strong foundation for goal achievement and keeps you focused and driven. When you have a clear why, you are able to eliminate distractions and channel your efforts towards what truly matters. By connecting your goals to a higher purpose, you unlock a sense of passion and commitment that propels you forward. So take the time to reflect on the meaning behind your goals and let it fuel your motivation to achieve greatness.

Making Progress: Small Steps for Big Success

To achieve big success, start by taking small steps towards your goals. Overcoming challenges and making incremental progress is key in reaching your desired outcomes. By breaking down your goals into manageable tasks, you can gradually work towards them, building momentum along the way. This approach allows you to navigate obstacles and adjust your strategy as needed, increasing your chances of success. Making progress in small steps not only keeps you motivated, but also improves productivity and efficiency. It helps you stay focused and committed to your goals, eliminating distractions and enhancing your sense of purpose. Remember, innovation thrives on continuous improvement, and by embracing the power of incremental progress, you can achieve remarkable results.

Breaking Down Goals: Strategies for Success

Start by breaking down your major goals into smaller, manageable tasks to increase productivity and improve your chances of success. Breaking down goals is a proven strategy that can help you stay focused, motivated, and on track. Here are three strategies to effectively break down your goals:

Set specific and measurable milestones: Break your major goal into smaller, actionable steps that are clear and measurable. This will give you a sense of progress and accomplishment as you achieve each milestone.

Prioritize tasks: Determine which tasks are most important and tackle them first. By prioritizing your tasks, you can ensure that you are working on the most crucial aspects of your goal.

Create a timeline: Establish a realistic timeline for completing each task. Setting deadlines will help you stay accountable and ensure that you are making consistent progress towards your goal.

Overcoming Obstacles on the Path to Goal Achievement

Identifying potential challenges and developing strategies to overcome them is essential for achieving your goals. In the pursuit of innovation, it is crucial to equip yourself with strategies for resilience and problem-solving techniques. The path to goal achievement is often riddled with obstacles, but with the right mindset and approach, you can overcome them. Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks and adapt to change. By developing strategies to enhance your resilience, such as staying optimistic, seeking support, and practicing self-care, you can navigate through challenges with ease. Problem-solving techniques, on the other hand, involve analyzing the problem, generating creative solutions, and implementing effective action plans. By honing your problem-solving skills, you can tackle obstacles head-on and find innovative solutions. Remember, in the face of challenges, resilience and problem-solving are your greatest allies on the path to goal achievement.

Harnessing the Benefits of Connecting Goals to a Why

Understanding the purpose behind your goals eliminates distractions and increases motivation. When you connect your goals to a meaningful "why," you unlock a powerful source of inspiration and drive. Exploring motivation and finding purpose will propel you towards innovation and success. Here are three key benefits of connecting your goals to a why:

Enhanced focus and commitment: Aligning your efforts with desired outcomes allows you to prioritize tasks that truly matter. By eliminating tasks that don’t align with your goals, you improve efficiency and stay on track.

Increased motivation and perseverance: Focusing on meaningful goals provides a sense of direction and purpose. When you understand why you want to achieve something, you become more committed and willing to overcome obstacles along the way.

Improved productivity and efficiency: Connecting goals to a why helps you stay motivated and avoid distractions. It allows you to concentrate your efforts on tasks that contribute directly to your desired outcomes, leading to greater productivity and innovation. So take the time to explore your motivation and find purpose in your goals; it will propel you towards success.

Starting Small: The Key to Lasting Change

Take small steps towards change by setting achievable goals and making gradual adjustments, increasing your chances of long-term success. Starting small is key to lasting change because it allows you to build a solid foundation and gain momentum over time. The importance of starting small lies in the power of incremental changes. By focusing on small, manageable tasks, you can make progress without feeling overwhelmed. This approach also allows for flexibility and adjustments along the way, ensuring that you stay on track towards your ultimate goal. Incremental changes have a compounding effect, leading to significant transformations over time. So, embrace the power of starting small and take those initial steps towards the change you desire. Remember, innovation and success often come from taking small, strategic actions towards your goals.

The Art of Breaking Down Major Goals Into Manageable Tasks

To achieve major goals, you can break them down into smaller tasks, making them more manageable and increasing your chances of success. Here’s how task organization through effective planning can help you on your journey:

Clear direction: Breaking down your major goals into smaller tasks provides a clear roadmap for what needs to be done. It helps you stay focused and avoids overwhelm.

Increased productivity: By organizing tasks, you can prioritize and allocate your time and resources effectively. This allows you to work more efficiently and make progress towards your goals.

Boosted motivation: Celebrating small milestones along the way can keep you motivated and energized. Recognizing your progress and achievements provides a sense of accomplishment, reinforcing your commitment to your goals.

Preparing for Success: Overcoming Obstacles Before They Arise

Now that you understand the importance of breaking down major goals into smaller tasks, let’s shift our focus to another crucial aspect of achieving success: identifying barriers and proactive planning. By taking the time to anticipate and address potential obstacles before they arise, you can significantly increase your chances of success and minimize setbacks.

Identifying barriers requires a thoughtful analysis of the factors that may hinder your progress. It could be anything from lack of resources or support to self-doubt or fear of failure. Once you’ve identified these barriers, it’s time to develop a proactive plan to overcome them.

Proactive planning involves creating strategies and solutions to navigate around potential obstacles. This could include seeking additional resources, building a support network, or developing coping mechanisms to deal with self-doubt. By taking a proactive approach, you are preparing yourself for challenges and ensuring that you have the tools and mindset to overcome them.

Navigating Obstacles: A Proactive Approach to Goal Achievement

Identifying potential barriers and developing proactive strategies allows you to navigate obstacles and increase your chances of achieving your goals. When it comes to goal achievement, proactive problem solving and anticipating challenges are key. Here are three strategies to help you navigate obstacles and stay on track:

Stay ahead of the game: Anticipate potential challenges and create contingency plans. By thinking ahead and being prepared, you can minimize the impact of obstacles when they arise.

Seek support and collaboration: Don’t be afraid to ask for help or seek advice from others who have faced similar challenges. Collaborating with like-minded individuals can provide fresh perspectives and innovative solutions.

Embrace a growth mindset: View obstacles as opportunities for growth and learning. Instead of seeing them as roadblocks, approach them as stepping stones towards your goal. This mindset shift will empower you to find creative solutions and overcome challenges with resilience.

Strategic Pathways to Goal Success: Purpose, Progress, and Obstacle Overcoming Strategies

You can increase your chances of achieving your goals by developing a clear plan that focuses on meaningful actions and anticipates potential challenges. Strategic goal setting is essential in guiding your journey towards success. By breaking down your major goals into smaller, manageable tasks, you can make progress one step at a time. This approach allows for flexibility and adjustments along the way, ensuring that you stay on track despite any obstacles you may encounter. Overcoming challenges is a crucial aspect of goal achievement, and by identifying potential obstacles before you start, you can create a proactive plan to navigate them effectively. By incorporating purpose into your goals, aligning your efforts with desired outcomes, and starting small, you set yourself on a strategic pathway to success.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can identifying and connecting goals to a why enhance goal achievement.

Identifying and connecting goals to a why enhances goal achievement by enhancing motivation and goal alignment. Understanding the purpose behind your goals eliminates distractions and increases your commitment and perseverance. When you align your efforts with desired outcomes, you become more motivated to take action. By connecting your goals to a meaningful why, you create a sense of direction and purpose, which helps you stay focused and determined on your path to success.

What Is the Average Time It Takes to Change a Habit?

On average, it takes 18 to 66 days to change a habit. However, the time it takes can vary depending on several factors. Factors such as the complexity of the habit, your level of motivation, and the consistency with which you practice the new behavior can all influence the speed of habit formation. To successfully form new habits, it is important to employ effective strategies such as starting small, staying consistent, and celebrating small wins along the way.

How Does Starting Small and Making Gradual Changes Increase the Likelihood of Success?

Starting small and making gradual changes is an effective strategy for increasing the likelihood of success. When you start small, you set yourself up for achievable goals and build momentum. Making gradual changes allows you to adjust and adapt along the way, making it easier to sustain progress. Incremental progress is powerful because small steps add up over time, leading to significant achievements. So, starting small and taking gradual steps is not a waste of time, but a proven pathway to success.

Why Is It Important to Break Down Major Goals Into Smaller Tasks?

Breaking down major goals into smaller tasks is crucial for success. It’s like building a strong foundation for a skyscraper. By breaking goals into manageable chunks, you increase productivity, maintain focus, and celebrate milestones along the way. This strategy enhances efficiency, adaptability, and progress. It’s like unraveling a complex puzzle, piece by piece, until the big picture emerges. Effective task planning techniques ensure you stay on track and overcome any obstacles that may arise.

How Can Overcoming Potential Obstacles Before Starting Help Prevent Setbacks?

Overcoming potential obstacles before starting is crucial for preventing setbacks. By proactively planning and identifying potential challenges, you can develop strategies to mitigate their impact. This allows you to be prepared and have a clear roadmap to navigate through obstacles when they arise. By addressing obstacles beforehand, you can minimize their disruption and maintain the momentum towards your goals. Taking a proactive approach sets you up for success and increases your chances of achieving your desired outcomes.

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10 Problem-solving strategies to turn challenges on their head

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What is an example of problem-solving?

What are the 5 steps to problem-solving, 10 effective problem-solving strategies, what skills do efficient problem solvers have, how to improve your problem-solving skills.

Problems come in all shapes and sizes — from workplace conflict to budget cuts.

Creative problem-solving is one of the most in-demand skills in all roles and industries. It can boost an organization’s human capital and give it a competitive edge. 

Problem-solving strategies are ways of approaching problems that can help you look beyond the obvious answers and find the best solution to your problem . 

Let’s take a look at a five-step problem-solving process and how to combine it with proven problem-solving strategies. This will give you the tools and skills to solve even your most complex problems.

Good problem-solving is an essential part of the decision-making process . To see what a problem-solving process might look like in real life, let’s take a common problem for SaaS brands — decreasing customer churn rates.

To solve this problem, the company must first identify it. In this case, the problem is that the churn rate is too high. 

Next, they need to identify the root causes of the problem. This could be anything from their customer service experience to their email marketing campaigns. If there are several problems, they will need a separate problem-solving process for each one. 

Let’s say the problem is with email marketing — they’re not nurturing existing customers. Now that they’ve identified the problem, they can start using problem-solving strategies to look for solutions. 

This might look like coming up with special offers, discounts, or bonuses for existing customers. They need to find ways to remind them to use their products and services while providing added value. This will encourage customers to keep paying their monthly subscriptions.

They might also want to add incentives, such as access to a premium service at no extra cost after 12 months of membership. They could publish blog posts that help their customers solve common problems and share them as an email newsletter.

The company should set targets and a time frame in which to achieve them. This will allow leaders to measure progress and identify which actions yield the best results.

Perhaps you’ve got a problem you need to tackle. Or maybe you want to be prepared the next time one arises. Either way, it’s a good idea to get familiar with the five steps of problem-solving. 

Use this step-by-step problem-solving method with the strategies in the following section to find possible solutions to your problem.

1. Identify the problem

The first step is to know which problem you need to solve. Then, you need to find the root cause of the problem. 

The best course of action is to gather as much data as possible, speak to the people involved, and separate facts from opinions. 

Once this is done, formulate a statement that describes the problem. Use rational persuasion to make sure your team agrees .

2. Break the problem down 

Identifying the problem allows you to see which steps need to be taken to solve it. 

First, break the problem down into achievable blocks. Then, use strategic planning to set a time frame in which to solve the problem and establish a timeline for the completion of each stage.

3. Generate potential solutions

At this stage, the aim isn’t to evaluate possible solutions but to generate as many ideas as possible. 

Encourage your team to use creative thinking and be patient — the best solution may not be the first or most obvious one.

Use one or more of the different strategies in the following section to help come up with solutions — the more creative, the better.

4. Evaluate the possible solutions

Once you’ve generated potential solutions, narrow them down to a shortlist. Then, evaluate the options on your shortlist. 

There are usually many factors to consider. So when evaluating a solution, ask yourself the following questions:

• Will my team be on board with the proposition?
• Does the solution align with organizational goals ?
• Is the solution likely to achieve the desired outcomes?
• Is the solution realistic and possible with current resources and constraints?
• Will the solution solve the problem without causing additional unintended problems?

5. Implement and monitor the solutions

Once you’ve identified your solution and got buy-in from your team, it’s time to implement it. 

But the work doesn’t stop there. You need to monitor your solution to see whether it actually solves your problem. 

Request regular feedback from the team members involved and have a monitoring and evaluation plan in place to measure progress.

If the solution doesn’t achieve your desired results, start this step-by-step process again.

There are many different ways to approach problem-solving. Each is suitable for different types of problems. 

The most appropriate problem-solving techniques will depend on your specific problem. You may need to experiment with several strategies before you find a workable solution.

Here are 10 effective problem-solving strategies for you to try:

• Use a solution that worked before
• Brainstorming
• Work backward
• Use the Kipling method
• Draw the problem
• Use trial and error
• Sleep on it
• Get advice from your peers
• Use the Pareto principle
• Add successful solutions to your toolkit

Let’s break each of these down.

1. Use a solution that worked before

It might seem obvious, but if you’ve faced similar problems in the past, look back to what worked then. See if any of the solutions could apply to your current situation and, if so, replicate them.

2. Brainstorming

The more people you enlist to help solve the problem, the more potential solutions you can come up with.

Use different brainstorming techniques to workshop potential solutions with your team. They’ll likely bring something you haven’t thought of to the table.

3. Work backward

Working backward is a way to reverse engineer your problem. Imagine your problem has been solved, and make that the starting point.

Then, retrace your steps back to where you are now. This can help you see which course of action may be most effective.

4. Use the Kipling method

This is a method that poses six questions based on Rudyard Kipling’s poem, “ I Keep Six Honest Serving Men .” 

• What is the problem?
• Why is the problem important?
• When did the problem arise, and when does it need to be solved?
• How did the problem happen?
• Where is the problem occurring?
• Who does the problem affect?

Answering these questions can help you identify possible solutions.

5. Draw the problem

Sometimes it can be difficult to visualize all the components and moving parts of a problem and its solution. Drawing a diagram can help.

This technique is particularly helpful for solving process-related problems. For example, a product development team might want to decrease the time they take to fix bugs and create new iterations. Drawing the processes involved can help you see where improvements can be made.

6. Use trial-and-error

A trial-and-error approach can be useful when you have several possible solutions and want to test them to see which one works best.

7. Sleep on it

Finding the best solution to a problem is a process. Remember to take breaks and get enough rest . Sometimes, a walk around the block can bring inspiration, but you should sleep on it if possible.

A good night’s sleep helps us find creative solutions to problems. This is because when you sleep, your brain sorts through the day’s events and stores them as memories. This enables you to process your ideas at a subconscious level. 

If possible, give yourself a few days to develop and analyze possible solutions. You may find you have greater clarity after sleeping on it. Your mind will also be fresh, so you’ll be able to make better decisions.

8. Get advice from your peers

Getting input from a group of people can help you find solutions you may not have thought of on your own. 

For solo entrepreneurs or freelancers, this might look like hiring a coach or mentor or joining a mastermind group. 

For leaders , it might be consulting other members of the leadership team or working with a business coach .

It’s important to recognize you might not have all the skills, experience, or knowledge necessary to find a solution alone. 

9. Use the Pareto principle

The Pareto principle — also known as the 80/20 rule — can help you identify possible root causes and potential solutions for your problems.

Although it’s not a mathematical law, it’s a principle found throughout many aspects of business and life. For example, 20% of the sales reps in a company might close 80% of the sales. 

You may be able to narrow down the causes of your problem by applying the Pareto principle. This can also help you identify the most appropriate solutions.

10. Add successful solutions to your toolkit

Every situation is different, and the same solutions might not always work. But by keeping a record of successful problem-solving strategies, you can build up a solutions toolkit. 

These solutions may be applicable to future problems. Even if not, they may save you some of the time and work needed to come up with a new solution.

Improving problem-solving skills is essential for professional development — both yours and your team’s. Here are some of the key skills of effective problem solvers:

• Critical thinking and analytical skills
• Communication skills , including active listening
• Decision-making
• Planning and prioritization
• Emotional intelligence , including empathy and emotional regulation
• Time management
• Data analysis
• Research skills
• Project management

And they see problems as opportunities. Everyone is born with problem-solving skills. But accessing these abilities depends on how we view problems. Effective problem-solvers see problems as opportunities to learn and improve.

Ready to work on your problem-solving abilities? Get started with these seven tips.

1. Build your problem-solving skills

One of the best ways to improve your problem-solving skills is to learn from experts. Consider enrolling in organizational training , shadowing a mentor , or working with a coach .

2. Practice

Practice using your new problem-solving skills by applying them to smaller problems you might encounter in your daily life. 

Alternatively, imagine problematic scenarios that might arise at work and use problem-solving strategies to find hypothetical solutions.

3. Don’t try to find a solution right away

Often, the first solution you think of to solve a problem isn’t the most appropriate or effective.

Instead of thinking on the spot, give yourself time and use one or more of the problem-solving strategies above to activate your creative thinking. 

4. Ask for feedback

Receiving feedback is always important for learning and growth. Your perception of your problem-solving skills may be different from that of your colleagues. They can provide insights that help you improve. 

5. Learn new approaches and methodologies

There are entire books written about problem-solving methodologies if you want to take a deep dive into the subject. 

We recommend starting with “ Fixed — How to Perfect the Fine Art of Problem Solving ” by Amy E. Herman. 

6. Experiment

Tried-and-tested problem-solving techniques can be useful. However, they don’t teach you how to innovate and develop your own problem-solving approaches. 

Sometimes, an unconventional approach can lead to the development of a brilliant new idea or strategy. So don’t be afraid to suggest your most “out there” ideas.

7. Analyze the success of your competitors

Do you have competitors who have already solved the problem you’re facing? Look at what they did, and work backward to solve your own problem. 

For example, Netflix started in the 1990s as a DVD mail-rental company. Its main competitor at the time was Blockbuster. 

But when streaming became the norm in the early 2000s, both companies faced a crisis. Netflix innovated, unveiling its streaming service in 2007. 

If Blockbuster had followed Netflix’s example, it might have survived. Instead, it declared bankruptcy in 2010.

Use problem-solving strategies to uplevel your business

When facing a problem, it’s worth taking the time to find the right solution. 

Otherwise, we risk either running away from our problems or headlong into solutions. When we do this, we might miss out on other, better options.

Use the problem-solving strategies outlined above to find innovative solutions to your business’ most perplexing problems.

If you’re ready to take problem-solving to the next level, request a demo with BetterUp . Our expert coaches specialize in helping teams develop and implement strategies that work.

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Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

8 creative solutions to your most challenging problems

5 problem-solving questions to prepare you for your next interview, 31 examples of problem solving performance review phrases, what are metacognitive skills examples in everyday life, what is lateral thinking 7 techniques to encourage creative ideas, leadership activities that encourage employee engagement, learn what process mapping is and how to create one (+ examples), how much do distractions cost 8 effects of lack of focus, 3 problem statement examples and steps to write your own, the pareto principle: how the 80/20 rule can help you do more with less, thinking outside the box: 8 ways to become a creative problem solver, 10 examples of principles that can guide your approach to work, contingency planning: 4 steps to prepare for the unexpected, stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

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Struggling to overcome challenges in your life? We all face problems, big and small, on a regular basis.

So how do you tackle them effectively? What are some key problem-solving strategies and skills that can guide you?

Effective problem-solving requires breaking issues down logically, generating solutions creatively, weighing choices critically, and adapting plans flexibly based on outcomes. Useful strategies range from leveraging past solutions that have worked to visualizing problems through diagrams. Core skills include analytical abilities, innovative thinking, and collaboration.

Want to improve your problem-solving skills? Keep reading to find out 17 effective problem-solving strategies, key skills, common obstacles to watch for, and tips on improving your overall problem-solving skills.

Key Takeaways:

• Effective problem-solving requires breaking down issues logically, generating multiple solutions creatively, weighing choices critically, and adapting plans based on outcomes.
• Useful problem-solving strategies range from leveraging past solutions to brainstorming with groups to visualizing problems through diagrams and models.
• Core skills include analytical abilities, innovative thinking, decision-making, and team collaboration to solve problems.
• Common obstacles include fear of failure, information gaps, fixed mindsets, confirmation bias, and groupthink.
• Boosting problem-solving skills involves learning from experts, actively practicing, soliciting feedback, and analyzing others’ success.
• Onethread’s project management capabilities align with effective problem-solving tenets – facilitating structured solutions, tracking progress, and capturing lessons learned.

What Is Problem-Solving?

Problem-solving is the process of understanding an issue, situation, or challenge that needs to be addressed and then systematically working through possible solutions to arrive at the best outcome.

It involves critical thinking, analysis, logic, creativity, research, planning, reflection, and patience in order to overcome obstacles and find effective answers to complex questions or problems.

The ultimate goal is to implement the chosen solution successfully.

What Are Problem-Solving Strategies?

Problem-solving strategies are like frameworks or methodologies that help us solve tricky puzzles or problems we face in the workplace, at home, or with friends.

Imagine you have a big jigsaw puzzle. One strategy might be to start with the corner pieces. Another could be looking for pieces with the same colors. 

Just like in puzzles, in real life, we use different plans or steps to find solutions to problems. These strategies help us think clearly, make good choices, and find the best answers without getting too stressed or giving up.

Why Is It Important To Know Different Problem-Solving Strategies?

Knowing different problem-solving strategies is important because different types of problems often require different approaches to solve them effectively. Having a variety of strategies to choose from allows you to select the best method for the specific problem you are trying to solve.

This improves your ability to analyze issues thoroughly, develop solutions creatively, and tackle problems from multiple angles. Knowing multiple strategies also aids in overcoming roadblocks if your initial approach is not working.

Here are some reasons why you need to know different problem-solving strategies:

• Different Problems Require Different Tools: Just like you can’t use a hammer to fix everything, some problems need specific strategies to solve them.
• Improves Creativity: Knowing various strategies helps you think outside the box and come up with creative solutions.
• Saves Time: With the right strategy, you can solve problems faster instead of trying things that don’t work.
• Reduces Stress: When you know how to tackle a problem, it feels less scary and you feel more confident.
• Better Outcomes: Using the right strategy can lead to better solutions, making things work out better in the end.
• Learning and Growth: Each time you solve a problem, you learn something new, which makes you smarter and better at solving future problems.

Knowing different ways to solve problems helps you tackle anything that comes your way, making life a bit easier and more fun!

17 Effective Problem-Solving Strategies

Effective problem-solving strategies include breaking the problem into smaller parts, brainstorming multiple solutions, evaluating the pros and cons of each, and choosing the most viable option. 

Critical thinking and creativity are essential in developing innovative solutions. Collaboration with others can also provide diverse perspectives and ideas. 

By applying these strategies, you can tackle complex issues more effectively.

Now, consider a challenge you’re dealing with. Which strategy could help you find a solution? Here we will discuss key problem strategies in detail.

1. Use a Past Solution That Worked

This strategy involves looking back at previous similar problems you have faced and the solutions that were effective in solving them.

It is useful when you are facing a problem that is very similar to something you have already solved. The main benefit is that you don’t have to come up with a brand new solution – you already know the method that worked before will likely work again.

However, the limitation is that the current problem may have some unique aspects or differences that mean your old solution is not fully applicable.

The ideal process is to thoroughly analyze the new challenge, identify the key similarities and differences versus the past case, adapt the old solution as needed to align with the current context, and then pilot it carefully before full implementation.

An example is using the same negotiation tactics from purchasing your previous home when putting in an offer on a new house. Key terms would be adjusted but overall it can save significant time versus developing a brand new strategy.

2. Brainstorm Solutions

This involves gathering a group of people together to generate as many potential solutions to a problem as possible.

It is effective when you need creative ideas to solve a complex or challenging issue. By getting input from multiple people with diverse perspectives, you increase the likelihood of finding an innovative solution.

The main limitation is that brainstorming sessions can sometimes turn into unproductive gripe sessions or discussions rather than focusing on productive ideation —so they need to be properly facilitated.

The key to an effective brainstorming session is setting some basic ground rules upfront and having an experienced facilitator guide the discussion. Rules often include encouraging wild ideas, avoiding criticism of ideas during the ideation phase, and building on others’ ideas.

For instance, a struggling startup might hold a session where ideas for turnaround plans are generated and then formalized with financials and metrics.

3. Work Backward from the Solution

This technique involves envisioning that the problem has already been solved and then working step-by-step backward toward the current state.

This strategy is particularly helpful for long-term, multi-step problems. By starting from the imagined solution and identifying all the steps required to reach it, you can systematically determine the actions needed. It lets you tackle a big hairy problem through smaller, reversible steps.

A limitation is that this approach may not be possible if you cannot accurately envision the solution state to start with.

The approach helps drive logical systematic thinking for complex problem-solving, but should still be combined with creative brainstorming of alternative scenarios and solutions.

An example is planning for an event – you would imagine the successful event occurring, then determine the tasks needed the week before, two weeks before, etc. all the way back to the present.

4. Use the Kipling Method

This method, named after author Rudyard Kipling, provides a framework for thoroughly analyzing a problem before jumping into solutions.

It consists of answering six fundamental questions: What, Where, When, How, Who, and Why about the challenge. Clearly defining these core elements of the problem sets the stage for generating targeted solutions.

The Kipling method enables a deep understanding of problem parameters and root causes before solution identification. By jumping to brainstorm solutions too early, critical information can be missed or the problem is loosely defined, reducing solution quality.

Answering the six fundamental questions illuminates all angles of the issue. This takes time but pays dividends in generating optimal solutions later tuned precisely to the true underlying problem.

The limitation is that meticulously working through numerous questions before addressing solutions can slow progress.

The best approach blends structured problem decomposition techniques like the Kipling method with spurring innovative solution ideation from a diverse team. 

An example is using this technique after a technical process failure – the team would systematically detail What failed, Where/When did it fail, How it failed (sequence of events), Who was involved, and Why it likely failed before exploring preventative solutions.

5. Try Different Solutions Until One Works (Trial and Error)

This technique involves attempting various potential solutions sequentially until finding one that successfully solves the problem.

Trial and error works best when facing a concrete, bounded challenge with clear solution criteria and a small number of discrete options to try. By methodically testing solutions, you can determine the faulty component.

A limitation is that it can be time-intensive if the working solution set is large.

The key is limiting the variable set first. For technical problems, this boundary is inherent and each element can be iteratively tested. But for business issues, artificial constraints may be required – setting decision rules upfront to reduce options before testing.

Furthermore, hypothesis-driven experimentation is far superior to blind trial and error – have logic for why Option A may outperform Option B.

Examples include fixing printer jams by testing different paper tray and cable configurations or resolving website errors by tweaking CSS/HTML line-by-line until the code functions properly.

6. Use Proven Formulas or Frameworks (Heuristics)

Heuristics refers to applying existing problem-solving formulas or frameworks rather than addressing issues completely from scratch.

This allows leveraging established best practices rather than reinventing the wheel each time.

It is effective when facing recurrent, common challenges where proven structured approaches exist.

However, heuristics may force-fit solutions to non-standard problems.

For example, a cost-benefit analysis can be used instead of custom weighting schemes to analyze potential process improvements.

Onethread allows teams to define, save, and replicate configurable project templates so proven workflows can be reliably applied across problems with some consistency rather than fully custom one-off approaches each time.

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7. Trust Your Instincts (Insight Problem-Solving)

Insight is a problem-solving technique that involves waiting patiently for an unexpected “aha moment” when the solution pops into your mind.

It works well for personal challenges that require intuitive realizations over calculated logic. The unconscious mind makes connections leading to flashes of insight when relaxing or doing mundane tasks unrelated to the actual problem.

Benefits include out-of-the-box creative solutions. However, the limitations are that insights can’t be forced and may never come at all if too complex. Critical analysis is still required after initial insights.

A real-life example would be a writer struggling with how to end a novel. Despite extensive brainstorming, they feel stuck. Eventually while gardening one day, a perfect unexpected plot twist sparks an ideal conclusion. However, once written they still carefully review if the ending flows logically from the rest of the story.

8. Reverse Engineer the Problem

This approach involves deconstructing a problem in reverse sequential order from the current undesirable outcome back to the initial root causes.

By mapping the chain of events backward, you can identify the origin of where things went wrong and establish the critical junctures for solving it moving ahead. Reverse engineering provides diagnostic clarity on multi-step problems.

However, the limitation is that it focuses heavily on autopsying the past versus innovating improved future solutions.

An example is tracing back from a server outage, through the cascade of infrastructure failures that led to it finally terminating at the initial script error that triggered the crisis. This root cause would then inform the preventative measure.

9. Break Down Obstacles Between Current and Goal State (Means-End Analysis)

This technique defines the current problem state and the desired end goal state, then systematically identifies obstacles in the way of getting from one to the other.

By mapping the barriers or gaps, you can then develop solutions to address each one. This methodically connects the problem to solutions.

A limitation is that some obstacles may be unknown upfront and only emerge later.

For example, you can list down all the steps required for a new product launch – current state through production, marketing, sales, distribution, etc. to full launch (goal state) – to highlight where resource constraints or other blocks exist so they can be addressed.

Onethread allows dividing big-picture projects into discrete, manageable phases, milestones, and tasks to simplify execution just as problems can be decomposed into more achievable components. Features like dependency mapping further reinforce interconnections.

Using Onethread’s issues and subtasks feature, messy problems can be decomposed into manageable chunks.

10. Ask “Why” Five Times to Identify the Root Cause (The 5 Whys)

This technique involves asking “Why did this problem occur?” and then responding with an answer that is again met with asking “Why?” This process repeats five times until the root cause is revealed.

Continually asking why digs deeper from surface symptoms to underlying systemic issues.

It is effective for getting to the source of problems originating from human error or process breakdowns.

However, some complex issues may have multiple tangled root causes not solvable through this approach alone.

An example is a retail store experiencing a sudden decline in customers. Successively asking why five times may trace an initial drop to parking challenges, stemming from a city construction project – the true starting point to address.

11. Evaluate Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT Analysis)

This involves analyzing a problem or proposed solution by categorizing internal and external factors into a 2×2 matrix: Strengths, Weaknesses as the internal rows; Opportunities and Threats as the external columns.

Systematically identifying these elements provides balanced insight to evaluate options and risks. It is impactful when evaluating alternative solutions or developing strategy amid complexity or uncertainty.

The key benefit of SWOT analysis is enabling multi-dimensional thinking when rationally evaluating options. Rather than getting anchored on just the upsides or the existing way of operating, it urges a systematic assessment through four different lenses:

• Internal Strengths: Our core competencies/advantages able to deliver success
• Internal Weaknesses: Gaps/vulnerabilities we need to manage
• External Opportunities: Ways we can differentiate/drive additional value
• External Threats: Risks we must navigate or mitigate

Multiperspective analysis provides the needed holistic view of the balanced risk vs. reward equation for strategic decision making amid uncertainty.

However, SWOT can feel restrictive if not tailored and evolved for different issue types.

Teams should view SWOT analysis as a starting point, augmenting it further for distinct scenarios.

An example is performing a SWOT analysis on whether a small business should expand into a new market – evaluating internal capabilities to execute vs. risks in the external competitive and demand environment to inform the growth decision with eyes wide open.

12. Compare Current vs Expected Performance (Gap Analysis)

This technique involves comparing the current state of performance, output, or results to the desired or expected levels to highlight shortfalls.

By quantifying the gaps, you can identify problem areas and prioritize address solutions.

Gap analysis is based on the simple principle – “you can’t improve what you don’t measure.” It enables facts-driven problem diagnosis by highlighting delta to goals, not just vague dissatisfaction that something seems wrong. And measurement immediately suggests improvement opportunities – address the biggest gaps first.

This data orientation also supports ROI analysis on fixing issues – the return from closing larger gaps outweighs narrowly targeting smaller performance deficiencies.

However, the approach is only effective if robust standards and metrics exist as the benchmark to evaluate against. Organizations should invest upfront in establishing performance frameworks.

Furthermore, while numbers are invaluable, the human context behind problems should not be ignored – quantitative versus qualitative gap assessment is optimally blended.

For example, if usage declines are noted during software gap analysis, this could be used as a signal to improve user experience through design.

13. Observe Processes from the Frontline (Gemba Walk)

A Gemba walk involves going to the actual place where work is done, directly observing the process, engaging with employees, and finding areas for improvement.

By experiencing firsthand rather than solely reviewing abstract reports, practical problems and ideas emerge.

The limitation is Gemba walks provide anecdotes not statistically significant data. It complements but does not replace comprehensive performance measurement.

An example is a factory manager inspecting the production line to spot jam areas based on direct reality rather than relying on throughput dashboards alone back in her office. Frontline insights prove invaluable.

14. Analyze Competitive Forces (Porter’s Five Forces)

This involves assessing the marketplace around a problem or business situation via five key factors: competitors, new entrants, substitute offerings, suppliers, and customer power.

Evaluating these forces illuminates risks and opportunities for strategy development and issue resolution. It is effective for understanding dynamic external threats and opportunities when operating in a contested space.

However, over-indexing on only external factors can overlook the internal capabilities needed to execute solutions.

A startup CEO, for example, may analyze market entry barriers, whitespace opportunities, and disruption risks across these five forces to shape new product rollout strategies and marketing approaches.

15. Think from Different Perspectives (Six Thinking Hats)

The Six Thinking Hats is a technique developed by Edward de Bono that encourages people to think about a problem from six different perspectives, each represented by a colored “thinking hat.”

The key benefit of this strategy is that it pushes team members to move outside their usual thinking style and consider new angles. This brings more diverse ideas and solutions to the table.

It works best for complex problems that require innovative solutions and when a team is stuck in an unproductive debate. The structured framework keeps the conversation flowing in a positive direction.

Limitations are that it requires training on the method itself and may feel unnatural at first. Team dynamics can also influence success – some members may dominate certain “hats” while others remain quiet.

A real-life example is a software company debating whether to build a new feature. The white hat focuses on facts, red on gut feelings, black on potential risks, yellow on benefits, green on new ideas, and blue on process. This exposes more balanced perspectives before deciding.

Onethread centralizes diverse stakeholder communication onto one platform, ensuring all voices are incorporated when evaluating project tradeoffs, just as problem-solving should consider multifaceted solutions.

16. Visualize the Problem (Draw it Out)

Drawing out a problem involves creating visual representations like diagrams, flowcharts, and maps to work through challenging issues.

This strategy is helpful when dealing with complex situations with lots of interconnected components. The visuals simplify the complexity so you can thoroughly understand the problem and all its nuances.

Key benefits are that it allows more stakeholders to get on the same page regarding root causes and it sparks new creative solutions as connections are made visually.

However, simple problems with few variables don’t require extensive diagrams. Additionally, some challenges are so multidimensional that fully capturing every aspect is difficult.

A real-life example would be mapping out all the possible causes leading to decreased client satisfaction at a law firm. An intricate fishbone diagram with branches for issues like service delivery, technology, facilities, culture, and vendor partnerships allows the team to trace problems back to their origins and brainstorm targeted fixes.

17. Follow a Step-by-Step Procedure (Algorithms)

An algorithm is a predefined step-by-step process that is guaranteed to produce the correct solution if implemented properly.

Using algorithms is effective when facing problems that have clear, binary right and wrong answers. Algorithms work for mathematical calculations, computer code, manufacturing assembly lines, and scientific experiments.

Key benefits are consistency, accuracy, and efficiency. However, they require extensive upfront development and only apply to scenarios with strict parameters. Additionally, human error can lead to mistakes.

For example, crew members of fast food chains like McDonald’s follow specific algorithms for food prep – from grill times to ingredient amounts in sandwiches, to order fulfillment procedures. This ensures uniform quality and service across all locations. However, if a step is missed, errors occur.

The Problem-Solving Process

The problem-solving process typically includes defining the issue, analyzing details, creating solutions, weighing choices, acting, and reviewing results.

In the above, we have discussed several problem-solving strategies. For every problem-solving strategy, you have to follow these processes. Here’s a detailed step-by-step process of effective problem-solving:

Step 1: Identify the Problem

The problem-solving process starts with identifying the problem. This step involves understanding the issue’s nature, its scope, and its impact. Once the problem is clearly defined, it sets the foundation for finding effective solutions.

Identifying the problem is crucial. It means figuring out exactly what needs fixing. This involves looking at the situation closely, understanding what’s wrong, and knowing how it affects things. It’s about asking the right questions to get a clear picture of the issue. 

This step is important because it guides the rest of the problem-solving process. Without a clear understanding of the problem, finding a solution is much harder. It’s like diagnosing an illness before treating it. Once the problem is identified accurately, you can move on to exploring possible solutions and deciding on the best course of action.

Step 2: Break Down the Problem

Breaking down the problem is a key step in the problem-solving process. It involves dividing the main issue into smaller, more manageable parts. This makes it easier to understand and tackle each component one by one.

After identifying the problem, the next step is to break it down. This means splitting the big issue into smaller pieces. It’s like solving a puzzle by handling one piece at a time. 

By doing this, you can focus on each part without feeling overwhelmed. It also helps in identifying the root causes of the problem. Breaking down the problem allows for a clearer analysis and makes finding solutions more straightforward. 

Each smaller problem can be addressed individually, leading to an effective resolution of the overall issue. This approach not only simplifies complex problems but also aids in developing a systematic plan to solve them.

Step 3: Come up with potential solutions

Coming up with potential solutions is the third step in the problem-solving process. It involves brainstorming various options to address the problem, considering creativity and feasibility to find the best approach.

After breaking down the problem, it’s time to think of ways to solve it. This stage is about brainstorming different solutions. You look at the smaller issues you’ve identified and start thinking of ways to fix them. This is where creativity comes in. 

You want to come up with as many ideas as possible, no matter how out-of-the-box they seem. It’s important to consider all options and evaluate their pros and cons. This process allows you to gather a range of possible solutions. 

Later, you can narrow these down to the most practical and effective ones. This step is crucial because it sets the stage for deciding on the best solution to implement. It’s about being open-minded and innovative to tackle the problem effectively.

Step 4: Analyze the possible solutions

Analyzing the possible solutions is the fourth step in the problem-solving process. It involves evaluating each proposed solution’s advantages and disadvantages to determine the most effective and feasible option.

After coming up with potential solutions, the next step is to analyze them. This means looking closely at each idea to see how well it solves the problem. You weigh the pros and cons of every solution.

Consider factors like cost, time, resources, and potential outcomes. This analysis helps in understanding the implications of each option. It’s about being critical and objective, ensuring that the chosen solution is not only effective but also practical.

This step is vital because it guides you towards making an informed decision. It involves comparing the solutions against each other and selecting the one that best addresses the problem.

By thoroughly analyzing the options, you can move forward with confidence, knowing you’ve chosen the best path to solve the issue.

Step 5: Implement and Monitor the Solutions

Implementing and monitoring the solutions is the final step in the problem-solving process. It involves putting the chosen solution into action and observing its effectiveness, making adjustments as necessary.

Once you’ve selected the best solution, it’s time to put it into practice. This step is about action. You implement the chosen solution and then keep an eye on how it works. Monitoring is crucial because it tells you if the solution is solving the problem as expected. 

If things don’t go as planned, you may need to make some changes. This could mean tweaking the current solution or trying a different one. The goal is to ensure the problem is fully resolved. 

This step is critical because it involves real-world application. It’s not just about planning; it’s about doing and adjusting based on results. By effectively implementing and monitoring the solutions, you can achieve the desired outcome and solve the problem successfully.

Why This Process is Important

Following a defined process to solve problems is important because it provides a systematic, structured approach instead of a haphazard one. Having clear steps guides logical thinking, analysis, and decision-making to increase effectiveness. Key reasons it helps are:

• Clear Direction: This process gives you a clear path to follow, which can make solving problems less overwhelming.
• Better Solutions: Thoughtful analysis of root causes, iterative testing of solutions, and learning orientation lead to addressing the heart of issues rather than just symptoms.
• Saves Time and Energy: Instead of guessing or trying random things, this process helps you find a solution more efficiently.
• Improves Skills: The more you use this process, the better you get at solving problems. It’s like practicing a sport. The more you practice, the better you play.
• Maximizes collaboration: Involving various stakeholders in the process enables broader inputs. Their communication and coordination are streamlined through organized brainstorming and evaluation.
• Provides consistency: Standard methodology across problems enables building institutional problem-solving capabilities over time. Patterns emerge on effective techniques to apply to different situations.

The problem-solving process is a powerful tool that can help us tackle any challenge we face. By following these steps, we can find solutions that work and learn important skills along the way.

Key Skills for Efficient Problem Solving

Efficient problem-solving requires breaking down issues logically, evaluating options, and implementing practical solutions.

Key skills include critical thinking to understand root causes, creativity to brainstorm innovative ideas, communication abilities to collaborate with others, and decision-making to select the best way forward. Staying adaptable, reflecting on outcomes, and applying lessons learned are also essential.

With practice, these capacities will lead to increased personal and team effectiveness in systematically addressing any problem.

 Let’s explore the powers you need to become a problem-solving hero!

Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills

Critical thinking and analytical skills are vital for efficient problem-solving as they enable individuals to objectively evaluate information, identify key issues, and generate effective solutions. 

These skills facilitate a deeper understanding of problems, leading to logical, well-reasoned decisions. By systematically breaking down complex issues and considering various perspectives, individuals can develop more innovative and practical solutions, enhancing their problem-solving effectiveness.

Communication Skills

Effective communication skills are essential for efficient problem-solving as they facilitate clear sharing of information, ensuring all team members understand the problem and proposed solutions. 

These skills enable individuals to articulate issues, listen actively, and collaborate effectively, fostering a productive environment where diverse ideas can be exchanged and refined. By enhancing mutual understanding, communication skills contribute significantly to identifying and implementing the most viable solutions.

Decision-Making

Strong decision-making skills are crucial for efficient problem-solving, as they enable individuals to choose the best course of action from multiple alternatives. 

These skills involve evaluating the potential outcomes of different solutions, considering the risks and benefits, and making informed choices. Effective decision-making leads to the implementation of solutions that are likely to resolve problems effectively, ensuring resources are used efficiently and goals are achieved.

Planning and Prioritization

Planning and prioritization are key for efficient problem-solving, ensuring resources are allocated effectively to address the most critical issues first. This approach helps in organizing tasks according to their urgency and impact, streamlining efforts towards achieving the desired outcome efficiently.

Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence enhances problem-solving by allowing individuals to manage emotions, understand others, and navigate social complexities. It fosters a positive, collaborative environment, essential for generating creative solutions and making informed, empathetic decisions.

Leadership skills drive efficient problem-solving by inspiring and guiding teams toward common goals. Effective leaders motivate their teams, foster innovation, and navigate challenges, ensuring collective efforts are focused and productive in addressing problems.

Time Management

Time management is crucial in problem-solving, enabling individuals to allocate appropriate time to each task. By efficiently managing time, one can ensure that critical problems are addressed promptly without neglecting other responsibilities.

Data Analysis

Data analysis skills are essential for problem-solving, as they enable individuals to sift through data, identify trends, and extract actionable insights. This analytical approach supports evidence-based decision-making, leading to more accurate and effective solutions.

Research Skills

Research skills are vital for efficient problem-solving, allowing individuals to gather relevant information, explore various solutions, and understand the problem’s context. This thorough exploration aids in developing well-informed, innovative solutions.

Becoming a great problem solver takes practice, but with these skills, you’re on your way to becoming a problem-solving hero. 

How to Improve Your Problem-Solving Skills?

Improving your problem-solving skills can make you a master at overcoming challenges. Learn from experts, practice regularly, welcome feedback, try new methods, experiment, and study others’ success to become better.

Learning from Experts

Improving problem-solving skills by learning from experts involves seeking mentorship, attending workshops, and studying case studies. Experts provide insights and techniques that refine your approach, enhancing your ability to tackle complex problems effectively.

To enhance your problem-solving skills, learning from experts can be incredibly beneficial. Engaging with mentors, participating in specialized workshops, and analyzing case studies from seasoned professionals can offer valuable perspectives and strategies. 

Experts share their experiences, mistakes, and successes, providing practical knowledge that can be applied to your own problem-solving process. This exposure not only broadens your understanding but also introduces you to diverse methods and approaches, enabling you to tackle challenges more efficiently and creatively.

Improving problem-solving skills through practice involves tackling a variety of challenges regularly. This hands-on approach helps in refining techniques and strategies, making you more adept at identifying and solving problems efficiently.

One of the most effective ways to enhance your problem-solving skills is through consistent practice. By engaging with different types of problems on a regular basis, you develop a deeper understanding of various strategies and how they can be applied. 

This hands-on experience allows you to experiment with different approaches, learn from mistakes, and build confidence in your ability to tackle challenges.

Regular practice not only sharpens your analytical and critical thinking skills but also encourages adaptability and innovation, key components of effective problem-solving.

Openness to Feedback

Being open to feedback is like unlocking a secret level in a game. It helps you boost your problem-solving skills. Improving problem-solving skills through openness to feedback involves actively seeking and constructively responding to critiques. 

This receptivity enables you to refine your strategies and approaches based on insights from others, leading to more effective solutions. 

Learning New Approaches and Methodologies

Learning new approaches and methodologies is like adding new tools to your toolbox. It makes you a smarter problem-solver. Enhancing problem-solving skills by learning new approaches and methodologies involves staying updated with the latest trends and techniques in your field. 

This continuous learning expands your toolkit, enabling innovative solutions and a fresh perspective on challenges.

Experimentation

Experimentation is like being a scientist of your own problems. It’s a powerful way to improve your problem-solving skills. Boosting problem-solving skills through experimentation means trying out different solutions to see what works best. This trial-and-error approach fosters creativity and can lead to unique solutions that wouldn’t have been considered otherwise.

Analyzing Competitors’ Success

Analyzing competitors’ success is like being a detective. It’s a smart way to boost your problem-solving skills. Improving problem-solving skills by analyzing competitors’ success involves studying their strategies and outcomes. Understanding what worked for them can provide valuable insights and inspire effective solutions for your own challenges. 

Challenges in Problem-Solving

Facing obstacles when solving problems is common. Recognizing these barriers, like fear of failure or lack of information, helps us find ways around them for better solutions.

Fear of Failure

Fear of failure is like a big, scary monster that stops us from solving problems. It’s a challenge many face. Because being afraid of making mistakes can make us too scared to try new solutions. 

How can we overcome this? First, understand that it’s okay to fail. Failure is not the opposite of success; it’s part of learning. Every time we fail, we discover one more way not to solve a problem, getting us closer to the right solution. Treat each attempt like an experiment. It’s not about failing; it’s about testing and learning.

Lack of Information

Lack of information is like trying to solve a puzzle with missing pieces. It’s a big challenge in problem-solving. Because without all the necessary details, finding a solution is much harder. 

How can we fix this? Start by gathering as much information as you can. Ask questions, do research, or talk to experts. Think of yourself as a detective looking for clues. The more information you collect, the clearer the picture becomes. Then, use what you’ve learned to think of solutions. 

Fixed Mindset

A fixed mindset is like being stuck in quicksand; it makes solving problems harder. It means thinking you can’t improve or learn new ways to solve issues. 

How can we change this? First, believe that you can grow and learn from challenges. Think of your brain as a muscle that gets stronger every time you use it. When you face a problem, instead of saying “I can’t do this,” try thinking, “I can’t do this yet.” Look for lessons in every challenge and celebrate small wins. 

Everyone starts somewhere, and mistakes are just steps on the path to getting better. By shifting to a growth mindset, you’ll see problems as opportunities to grow. Keep trying, keep learning, and your problem-solving skills will soar!

Jumping to Conclusions

Jumping to conclusions is like trying to finish a race before it starts. It’s a challenge in problem-solving. That means making a decision too quickly without looking at all the facts. 

How can we avoid this? First, take a deep breath and slow down. Think about the problem like a puzzle. You need to see all the pieces before you know where they go. Ask questions, gather information, and consider different possibilities. Don’t choose the first solution that comes to mind. Instead, compare a few options. 

Feeling Overwhelmed

Feeling overwhelmed is like being buried under a mountain of puzzles. It’s a big challenge in problem-solving. When we’re overwhelmed, everything seems too hard to handle. 

How can we deal with this? Start by taking a step back. Breathe deeply and focus on one thing at a time. Break the big problem into smaller pieces, like sorting puzzle pieces by color. Tackle each small piece one by one. It’s also okay to ask for help. Sometimes, talking to someone else can give you a new perspective. 

Confirmation Bias

Confirmation bias is like wearing glasses that only let you see what you want to see. It’s a challenge in problem-solving. Because it makes us focus only on information that agrees with what we already believe, ignoring anything that doesn’t. 

How can we overcome this? First, be aware that you might be doing it. It’s like checking if your glasses are on right. Then, purposely look for information that challenges your views. It’s like trying on a different pair of glasses to see a new perspective. Ask questions and listen to answers, even if they don’t fit what you thought before.

Groupthink is like everyone in a group deciding to wear the same outfit without asking why. It’s a challenge in problem-solving. It means making decisions just because everyone else agrees, without really thinking it through. 

How can we avoid this? First, encourage everyone in the group to share their ideas, even if they’re different. It’s like inviting everyone to show their unique style of clothes. 

Listen to all opinions and discuss them. It’s okay to disagree; it helps us think of better solutions. Also, sometimes, ask someone outside the group for their thoughts. They might see something everyone in the group missed.

Overcoming obstacles in problem-solving requires patience, openness, and a willingness to learn from mistakes. By recognizing these barriers, we can develop strategies to navigate around them, leading to more effective and creative solutions.

What are the most common problem-solving techniques?

The most common techniques include brainstorming, the 5 Whys, mind mapping, SWOT analysis, and using algorithms or heuristics. Each approach has its strengths, suitable for different types of problems.

What’s the best problem-solving strategy for every situation?

There’s no one-size-fits-all strategy. The best approach depends on the problem’s complexity, available resources, and time constraints. Combining multiple techniques often yields the best results.

How can I improve my problem-solving skills?

Improve your problem-solving skills by practicing regularly, learning from experts, staying open to feedback, and continuously updating your knowledge on new approaches and methodologies.

Are there any tools or resources to help with problem-solving?

Yes, tools like mind mapping software, online courses on critical thinking, and books on problem-solving techniques can be very helpful. Joining forums or groups focused on problem-solving can also provide support and insights.

What are some common mistakes people make when solving problems?

Common mistakes include jumping to conclusions without fully understanding the problem, ignoring valuable feedback, sticking to familiar solutions without considering alternatives, and not breaking down complex problems into manageable parts.

Final Words

Mastering problem-solving strategies equips us with the tools to tackle challenges across all areas of life. By understanding and applying these techniques, embracing a growth mindset, and learning from both successes and obstacles, we can transform problems into opportunities for growth. Continuously improving these skills ensures we’re prepared to face and solve future challenges more effectively.

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• Julia Binder
• Michael D. Watkins

Research shows that companies devote too little effort to examining problems before trying to solve them. By jumping immediately into problem-solving, teams limit their ability to design innovative solutions.

The authors recommend that companies spend more time up front on problem-framing, a process for understanding and defining a problem. Exploring different frames is like looking at a scene through various camera lenses while adjusting your angle, aperture, and focus. A wide-angle lens gives you a very different photo from that taken with a telephoto lens, and shifting your angle and depth of focus yields distinct images. Effective problem-framing is similar: Looking at a problem from a variety of perspectives helps you uncover new insights and generate fresh ideas.

This article introduces a five-phase approach to problem-framing: In the expand phase, the team identifies all aspects of a problem; in examine, it dives into root causes; in empathize, it considers key stakeholders’ perspectives; in elevate, it puts the problem into a broader context; and in envision, it creates a road map toward the desired outcome.

Five steps to ensure that you don’t jump to solutions

Idea in Brief

The problem.

Research shows that most companies devote too little effort to examining problems from all angles before trying to solve them. That limits their ability to come up with innovative ways to address them.

The Solution

Companies need a structured approach for understanding and defining complex problems to uncover new insights and generate fresh ideas.

The Approach

This article introduces a five-phase approach to problem-framing: In the expand phase, the team identifies all aspects of a problem; in examine, it dives into root causes; in empathize, it considers key stakeholders’ perspectives; in elevate, it puts the problem into a broader context; and in envision, it creates a road map toward the desired outcome.

When business leaders confront complex problems, there’s a powerful impulse to dive right into “solving” mode: You gather a team and then identify potential solutions. That’s fine for challenges you’ve faced before or when proven methods yield good results. But what happens when a new type of problem arises or aspects of a familiar one shift substantially? Or if you’re not exactly sure what the problem is?

Research conducted by us and others shows that leaders and their teams devote too little effort to examining and defining problems before trying to solve them. A study by Paul Nutt of Ohio State University, for example, looked at 350 decision-making processes at medium to large companies and found that more than half failed to achieve desired results, often because perceived time pressure caused people to pay insufficient attention to examining problems from all angles and exploring their complexities. By jumping immediately into problem-solving, teams limit their ability to design innovative and durable solutions.

When we work with organizations and teams, we encourage them to spend more time up front on problem-framing, a process for understanding and defining a problem. Exploring frames is like looking at a scene through various camera lenses while adjusting your angle, aperture, and focus. A wide-angle lens will give you a very different photo from that taken with a telephoto lens, and shifting your angle and depth of focus yields distinct images. Effective problem-framing is similar: Looking at a problem from a variety of perspectives lets you uncover new insights and generate fresh ideas.

As with all essential processes, it helps to have a methodology and a road map. This article introduces the E5 approach to problem-framing—expand, examine, empathize, elevate, and envision—and offers tools that enable leaders to fully explore the problem space.

Phase 1: Expand

In the first phase, set aside preconceptions and open your mind. We recommend using a tool called frame-storming, which encourages a comprehensive exploration of an issue and its nuances. It is a neglected precursor to brainstorming, which typically focuses on generating many different answers for an already framed challenge. Frame-storming helps teams identify assumptions and blind spots, mitigating the risk of pursuing inadequate or biased solutions. The goal is to spark innovation and creativity as people dig into—or as Tina Seelig from Stanford puts it, “fall in love with”—the problem.

Begin by assembling a diverse team, encompassing a variety of types of expertise and perspectives. Involving outsiders can be helpful, since they’re often coming to the issue cold. A good way to prompt the team to consider alternative scenarios is by asking “What if…?” and “How might we…?” questions. For example, ask your team, “What if we had access to unlimited resources to tackle this issue?” or “How might better collaboration between departments or teams help us tackle this issue?” The primary objective is to generate many alternative problem frames, allowing for a more holistic understanding of the issue. Within an open, nonjudgmental atmosphere, you deliberately challenge established thinking—what we call “breaking” the frame.

It may be easy to eliminate some possibilities, and that’s exactly what you should do. Rather than make assumptions, generate alternative hypotheses and then test them.

Consider the problem-framing process at a company we’ll call Omega Soundscapes, a midsize producer of high-end headphones. (Omega is a composite of several firms we’ve worked with.) Omega’s sales had declined substantially over the past two quarters, and the leadership team’s initial diagnosis, or reference frame, was that recent price hikes to its flagship product made it too expensive for its target market. Before acting on this assumption, the team convened knowledgeable representatives from sales, marketing, R&D, customer service, and external consultants to do some frame-storming. Team members were asked:

• What if we lowered the price of our flagship product? How would that impact sales and profitability?
• How might we identify customers in new target markets who could afford our headphones at the current price?
• What if we offered financing or a subscription-based model for our headphones? How would that change perceptions of affordability?
• How might we optimize our supply chain and production processes to reduce manufacturing costs without compromising quality?

In playing out each of those scenarios, the Omega team generated several problem frames:

• The target market’s preferences have evolved.
• New competitors have entered the market.
• Product quality has decreased.
• Something has damaged perceptions of the brand.
• Something has changed in the priorities of our key distributors.

Each of the frames presented a unique angle from which to approach the problem of declining sales, setting the stage for the development of diverse potential solutions. At this stage, it may be relatively easy to eliminate some possibilities, and that’s exactly what you should do. Rather than make assumptions, generate alternative hypotheses and then test them.

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Phase 2: Examine

If the expand phase is about identifying all the facets of a problem, this one is about diving deep to identify root causes. The team investigates the issue thoroughly, peeling back the layers to understand underlying drivers and systemic contributors.

A useful tool for doing this is the iceberg model, which guides the team through layers of causation: surface-level events, the behavioral patterns that drive them, underlying systematic structures, and established mental models. As you probe ever deeper and document your findings, you begin to home in on the problem’s root causes. As is the case in the expand phase, open discussions and collaborative research are crucial for achieving a comprehensive analysis.

Let’s return to our Omega Soundscapes example and use the iceberg model to delve into the issues surrounding the two quarters of declining sales. Starting with the first layer beneath the surface, the behavioral pattern, the team diligently analyzed customer feedback. It discovered a significant drop in brand loyalty. This finding validated the problem frame of a “shifting brand perception,” prompting further investigation into what might have been causing it.

Phase 3: Empathize

In this phase, the focus is on the stakeholders—employees, customers, clients, investors, supply chain partners, and other parties—who are most central to and affected by the problem under investigation. The core objective is to understand how they perceive the issue: what they think and feel, how they’re acting, and what they want.

First list all the people who are directly or indirectly relevant to the problem. It may be helpful to create a visual representation of the network of relationships in the ecosystem. Prioritize the stakeholders according to their level of influence on and interest in the problem, and focus on understanding the roles, demographics, behavior patterns, motivations, and goals of the most important ones.

Now create empathy maps for those critical stakeholders. Make a template divided into four sections: Say, Think, Feel, and Do. Conduct interviews or surveys to gather authentic data. How do various users explain the problem? How do they think about the issue, and how do their beliefs inform that thinking? What emotions are they feeling and expressing? How are they behaving? Populate each section of the map with notes based on your observations and interactions. Finally, analyze the completed empathy maps. Look for pain points, inconsistencies, and patterns in stakeholder perspectives.

Returning to the Omega case study, the team identified its ecosystem of stakeholders: customers (both current and potential); retail partners and distributors; the R&D, marketing, and sales teams; suppliers of headphone components; investors and shareholders; and new and existing competitors. They narrowed the list to a few key stakeholders related to the declining-sales problem: customers, retail partners, and investors/shareholders; Omega created empathy maps for representatives from each.

Here’s what the empathy maps showed about what the stakeholders were saying, thinking, feeling, and doing:

Sarah, the customer, complained on social media about the high price of her favorite headphones. Dave, the retailer, expressed concerns about unsold inventory and the challenge of convincing customers to buy the expensive headphones. Alex, the shareholder, brought up Omega’s declining financial performance during its annual investor day.

Sarah thought that Omega was losing touch with its loyal customer base. Dave was considering whether to continue carrying Omega’s products in his store or explore other brands. Alex was contemplating diversifying his portfolio into other consumer-tech companies.

As a longtime supporter of the brand, Sarah felt frustrated and slightly betrayed. Dave was feeling anxious about the drop in sales and the impact on his store’s profitability. Alex was unhappy with the declining stock value.

Sarah was looking for alternatives to the headphones, even though she loves the product’s quality. Dave was scheduling a call with Omega to negotiate pricing and terms. Alex was planning to attend Omega’s next shareholder meeting to find out more information from the leadership team.

When Omega leaders analyzed the data in the maps, they realized that pricing wasn’t the only reason for declining sales. A more profound issue was customers’ dissatisfaction with the perceived price-to-quality ratio, especially when compared with competitors’ offerings. That insight prompted the team to consider enhancing the headphones with additional features, offering more-affordable alternatives, and possibly switching to a service model.

Phase 4: Elevate

This phase involves exploring how the problem connects to broader organizational issues. It’s like zooming out on a map to understand where a city lies in relation to the whole country or continent. This bird’s-eye view reveals interconnected issues and their implications.

For this analysis, we recommend the four-frame model developed by Lee Bolman and Terrence Deal, which offers distinct lenses through which to view the problem at a higher level. The structural frame helps you explore formal structures (such as hierarchy and reporting relationships); processes (such as workflow); and systems, rules, and policies. This frame examines efficiency, coordination, and alignment of activities.

The human resources frame focuses on people, relationships, and social dynamics. This includes teamwork, leadership, employee motivation, engagement, professional development, and personal growth. In this frame, the organization is seen as a community or a family that recognizes that talent is its most valuable asset. The political frame delves into power dynamics, competing interests, conflicts, coalitions, and negotiations. From this perspective, organizations are arenas where various stakeholders vie for resources and engage in political struggles to influence decisions. It helps you see how power is distributed, used, and contested.

The symbolic frame highlights the importance of symbols, rituals, stories, and shared values in shaping group identity and culture. In it, organizations are depicted as theaters through which its members make meaning.

Using this model, the Omega team generated the following insights in the four frames:

Structural.

A deeper look into the company’s structure revealed siloing and a lack of coordination between the R&D and marketing departments, which had led to misaligned messaging to customers. It also highlighted a lack of collaboration between the two functions and pointed to the need to communicate with the target market about the product’s features and benefits in a coherent and compelling way.

Human resources.

This frame revealed that the declining sales and price hikes had ramped up pressure on the sales team, damaging morale. The demotivated team was struggling to effectively promote the product, making it harder to recover from declining sales. Omega realized it was lacking adequate support, training, and incentives for the team.

The key insight from this frame was that the finance team’s reluctance to approve promotions in the sales group to maintain margins was exacerbating the morale problem. Omega understood that investing in sales leadership development while still generating profits was crucial for long-term success and that frank discussions about the issue were needed.

This frame highlighted an important misalignment in perception: The company believed that its headphones were of “top quality,” while customers reported in surveys that they were “overpriced.” This divergence raised alarm that branding, marketing, and pricing strategies, which were all predicated on the central corporate value of superior quality, were no longer resonating with customers. Omega realized that it had been paying too little attention to quality assurance and functionality.

Phase 5: Envision

In this phase, you transition from framing the problem to actively imagining and designing solutions. This involves synthesizing the insights gained from earlier phases and crafting a shared vision of the desired future state.

Here we recommend using a technique known as backcasting. First, clearly define your desired goal. For example, a team struggling with missed deadlines and declining productivity might aim to achieve on-time completion rates of 98% for its projects and increase its volume of projects by 5% over the next year. Next, reverse engineer the path to achieving your goal. Outline key milestones required over both the short term and the long term. For each one, pinpoint specific interventions, strategies, and initiatives that will propel you closer to your goal. These may encompass changes in processes, policies, technologies, and behaviors. Synthesize the activities into a sequenced, chronological, prioritized road map or action plan, and allocate the resources, including time, budget, and personnel, necessary to implement your plan. Finally, monitor progress toward your goal and be prepared to adjust the plan in response to outcomes, feedback, or changing circumstances. This approach ensures that the team’s efforts in implementing the insights from the previous phases are strategically and purposefully directed toward a concrete destination.

Applying the Approach

Albert Einstein once said, “If I had one hour to solve a problem, I would spend 55 minutes thinking about the problem and five minutes thinking about the solution.” That philosophy underpins our E5 framework, which provides a structured approach for conscientiously engaging with complex problems before leaping to solutions.

As teams use the methodology, they must understand that problem-framing in today’s intricate business landscape is rarely a linear process. While we’re attempting to provide a structured path, we also recognize the dynamic nature of problems and the need for adaptability. Invariably, as teams begin to implement solutions, new facets of a problem may come to light, unforeseen challenges may arise, or external circumstances may evolve. Your team should be ready to loop back to previous phases—for instance, revisiting the expand phase to reassess the problem’s frame, delving deeper into an overlooked root cause in another examine phase, or gathering fresh insights from stakeholders in a new empathize phase. Ultimately, the E5 framework is intended to foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

• JB Julia Binder is the director of the Center for Sustainable and Inclusive Business and a professor of sustainable innovation at IMD.
• Michael D. Watkins is a professor of leadership and organizational change at IMD , a cofounder of Genesis Advisers , and the author of The Six Disciplines of Strategic Thinking .

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The six main barriers against problem-solving and how to overcome them.

Challenges. Disputes. Dilemmas. Obstacles. Troubles. Issues. Headaches.

• The uniqueness of every different issue makes the need for an also adapted and individualized solution.
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Business people discussing the plan at office photo credit: Getty

There are more than thirty different ways to call all those unpleasant and stressful situations which prevent us from directly achieving what we want to achieve. Life is full of them. This is why the ability to solve problems in an effective and timely manner without any impediments is considered to be one of the most key and critical skill for resolutive and successful leaders. But is not just leaders or top managers facing the way forward.  According to a Harvard Bussiness Review survey , people's skills depends on their level on the organization and their particular job and activities. However, when coming to problem-solving, there is a remarkable consistency about the importance of it within all the different measured organization levels.

There are small problems and big problems. Those ones that we laugh about and those that take our sleep away. Problems that affect just us or our whole company. Issues that need to be resolved proactively and others that require us to wait and observe.  There is a special kind of problem for every day of our lives, but all of them responds to a common denominator: addressing them adequately.  It is our ability to do so what makes the difference between success and failure.

Problems manifest themselves in many different ways. As inconsistent results or performance. As a failure toward standards.  As discrepancies between expectations and reality.  The uniqueness of every different issue makes the need for an also adapted and individualized solution. This is why finding the way forward can be sometimes tricky. There are many reasons why it is difficult to find a solution to a problem, but you can find the six more common causes and the way to overcome them!

1. Difficulty to recognize that there is a problem

Nobody likes to be wrong. “Cognitive dissonance is what we feel when the self-concept — I’m smart, I’m kind, I’m convinced this belief is true — is threatened by evidence that we did something that wasn’t smart, that we did something that hurt another person, that the belief isn’t true,” explains Carol Tavris. 

Problems and mistakes are not easy to digest. To  reduce this cognitive dissonance, we need to modify our self-concept or well deny the evidence. Many times is just easier to simply turn our back to an issue and blindly keep going.  But the only way to end it up to satisfactory is to make an effort to recognize and accept the evidence. Being wrong is human and until the problem is not acknowledged solutions will never materialize. To fully accept that something is not going the way it should, the easiest way is to focus on the benefits of new approaches and always remain non-judgemental about the causes. Sometimes we may be are afraid of the costs in terms of resources, time and physical or mental efforts that working for the solution may eventually bring. We may need then to project ourselves in all the fatalistic consequences that we will finally encounter in case we continue sunk in the problem. Sometimes we really need to visualize the disaster before accepting a need for change.

2. Huge size problem

Yes! We clearly know that something is going wrong. But the issue is so big that there is no way we can try to solve it without blowing our life into pieces. Fair enough. Some problems are so big that it is not possible to find at once a solution for them. But we can always break them into smaller pieces and visualize the different steps and actions that we could eventually undertake to get to our final goal. Make sure you do not lose sight of the original problem!

3. Poorly framed problem

Without the proper framing, there is no certainty about the appropriate focus on the right problem. Asking the relevant questions is a crucial aspect to it. Does your frame of the problem capture its real essence? Do you have all the background information needed? Can you rephrase the problem and it is still understandable? Have you explored it from different perspectives? Are different people able to understand your frame for the problem correctly? Answering to the right problem in the right way depends 95% on the correct framing of it!

'If I have an hour to solve a problem, I'd spend 55 minutes thinking about the problem and 5 minutes thinking about the solution' (Albert Einstein)

4. Lack of respect for rhythms

There is always a right time for preparation, a right time for action and a right time for patience. Respecting the rhythms of a problem is directly link to the success of the solution. Acting too quickly or waiting too long can have real counterproductive effects. There is a need for enough time to gather information and understand all the different upshots of a planned solution. A balance of action is crucial to avoid both eagerness and laxity. Waiting for the proper time to take action is sometimes the most complicated part of it.

5. Lack of problem'roots identification

It is quite often that we feel something is not going the way it should without clearly identifying what the exact problematic issue is. We are able to frame all the negative effects and consequences, but we do not really get to appropriately verbalized what the problem is all together. Consequently, we tend to fix the symptoms without getting to the real causes.  It is as common as dangerous and not sustainable for problem-solving. 

Make sure that you have a clear picture of what are the roots of the problem and what are just the manifestations or ramifications of it. Double loop always to make sure that you are not patching over the symptoms but getting to the heart of the matter.

6. Failure to identify the involved parts

Take time to figure out and consult every simple part involved in the problem as well as affected by the possible solution. Problems and solutions always have at the core human needs and impacts. Failing to identify and take into consideration the human factor in the problem-solving process will prevent the whole mechanism from reaching the desired final goal.

'We always hope for the easy fix: the one simple change that will erase a problem in a stroke. But few things in life work this way. Instead, success requires making a hundred small steps go right - one after the other, no slipups, no goofs, everyone pitching in.'  ( Atul Gawande)

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Learn Creative Problem Solving Techniques to Stimulate Innovation in Your Organization

By Kate Eby | October 20, 2017 (updated August 27, 2021)

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In today’s competitive business landscape, organizations need processes in place to make strong, well-informed, and innovative decisions. Problem solving - in particular creative problem solving (CPS) - is a key skill in learning how to accurately identify problems and their causes, generate potential solutions, and evaluate all the possibilities to arrive at a strong corrective course of action. Every team in any organization, regardless of department or industry, needs to be effective, creative, and quick when solving problems. 

In this article, we’ll discuss traditional and creative problem solving, and define the steps, best practices, and common barriers associated. After that, we’ll provide helpful methods and tools to identify the cause(s) of problematic situations, so you can get to the root of the issue and start to generate solutions. Then, we offer nearly 20 creative problem solving techniques to implement at your organization, or even in your personal life. Along the way, experts weigh in on the importance of problem solving, and offer tips and tricks. 

What Is Problem Solving and Decision Making?

Problem solving is the process of working through every aspect of an issue or challenge to reach a solution. Decision making is choosing one of multiple proposed solutions  — therefore, this process also includes defining and evaluating all potential options. Decision making is often one step of the problem solving process, but the two concepts are distinct. 

Collective problem solving is problem solving that includes many different parties and bridges the knowledge of different groups. Collective problem solving is common in business problem solving because workplace decisions typically affect more than one person. 

Problem solving, especially in business, is a complicated science. Not only are business conflicts multifaceted, but they often involve different personalities, levels of authority, and group dynamics. In recent years, however, there has been a rise in psychology-driven problem solving techniques, especially for the workplace. In fact, the psychology of how people solve problems is now studied formally in academic disciplines such as psychology and cognitive science.

Joe Carella is the Assistant Dean for Executive Education at the University of Arizona . Joe has over 20 years of experience in helping executives and corporations in managing change and developing successful business strategies. His doctoral research and executive education engagements have seen him focus on corporate strategy, decision making and business performance with a variety of corporate clients including Hershey’s, Chevron, Fender Musical Instruments Corporation, Intel, DP World, Essilor, BBVA Compass Bank.

He explains some of the basic psychology behind problem solving: “When our brain is engaged in the process of solving problems, it is engaged in a series of steps where it processes and organizes the information it receives while developing new knowledge it uses in future steps. Creativity is embedded in this process by incorporating diverse inputs and/or new ways of organizing the information received.”

Laura MacLeod is a Professor of Social Group Work at City University of New York, and the creator of From The Inside Out Project® , a program that coaches managers in team leadership for a variety of workplaces. She has a background in social work and over two decades of experience as a union worker, and currently leads talks on conflict resolution, problem solving, and listening skills at conferences across the country. 

MacLeod thinks of problem solving as an integral practice of successful organizations. “Problem solving is a collaborative process — all voices are heard and connected, and resolution is reached by the group,” she says. “Problems and conflicts occur in all groups and teams in the workplace, but if leaders involve everyone in working through, they will foster cohesion, engagement, and buy in. Everybody wins.”

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What Is the First Step in Solving a Problem?

Although problem solving techniques vary procedurally, experts agree that the first step in solving a problem is defining the problem. Without a clear articulation of the problem at stake, it is impossible to analyze all the key factors and actors, generate possible solutions, and then evaluate them to pick the best option. 

Dr. Elliott Jaffa is a behavioral and management psychologist with over 25 years of problem solving training and management experience. “Start with defining the problem you want to solve,” he says, “And then define where you want to be, what you want to come away with.” He emphasizes these are the first steps in creating an actionable, clear solution. 

Bryan Mattimore is Co-Founder of Growth Engine, an 18-year old innovation agency based in Norwalk, CT. Bryan has facilitated over 1,000 ideation sessions and managed over 200 successful innovation projects leading to over $3 billion in new sales. His newest book is 21 Days to a Big Idea . When asked about the first critical component to successful problem solving, Mattimore says, “Defining the challenge correctly, or ‘solving the right problem’ … The three creative techniques we use to help our clients ‘identify the right problem to be solved’ are questioning assumptions, 20 questions, and problem redefinition. A good example of this was a new product challenge from a client to help them ‘invent a new iron. We got them to redefine the challenge as first: a) inventing new anti-wrinkle devices, and then b) inventing new garment care devices.”

What Are Problem Solving Skills?

To understand the necessary skills in problem solving, you should first understand the types of thinking often associated with strong decision making. Most problem solving techniques look for a balance between the following binaries:

• Convergent vs. Divergent Thinking: Convergent thinking is bringing together disparate information or ideas to determine a single best answer or solution. This thinking style values logic, speed, and accuracy, and leaves no chance for ambiguity. Divergent thinking is focused on generating new ideas to identify and evaluate multiple possible solutions, often uniting ideas in unexpected combinations. Divergent thinking is characterized by creativity, complexity, curiosity, flexibility, originality, and risk-taking.
• Pragmatics vs. Semantics: Pragmatics refer to the logic of the problem at hand, and semantics is how you interpret the problem to solve it. Both are important to yield the best possible solution.
• Mathematical vs. Personal Problem Solving: Mathematical problem solving involves logic (usually leading to a single correct answer), and is useful for problems that involve numbers or require an objective, clear-cut solution. However, many workplace problems also require personal problem solving, which includes interpersonal, collaborative, and emotional intuition and skills. 

The following basic methods are fundamental problem solving concepts. Implement them to help balance the above thinking models.

• Reproductive Thinking: Reproductive thinking uses past experience to solve a problem. However, be careful not to rely too heavily on past solutions, and to evaluate current problems individually, with their own factors and parameters. 
• Idea Generation: The process of generating many possible courses of action to identify a solution. This is most commonly a team exercise because putting everyone’s ideas on the table will yield the greatest number of potential solutions. 

However, many of the most critical problem solving skills are “soft” skills: personal and interpersonal understanding, intuitiveness, and strong listening. 

Mattimore expands on this idea: “The seven key skills to be an effective creative problem solver that I detail in my book Idea Stormers: How to Lead and Inspire Creative Breakthroughs are: 1) curiosity 2) openness 3) a willingness to embrace ambiguity 4) the ability to identify and transfer principles across categories and disciplines 5) the desire to search for integrity in ideas, 6) the ability to trust and exercise “knowingness” and 7) the ability to envision new worlds (think Dr. Seuss, Star Wars, Hunger Games, Harry Potter, etc.).”

“As an individual contributor to problem solving it is important to exercise our curiosity, questioning, and visioning abilities,” advises Carella. “As a facilitator it is essential to allow for diverse ideas to emerge, be able to synthesize and ‘translate’ other people’s thinking, and build an extensive network of available resources.”

MacLeod says the following interpersonal skills are necessary to effectively facilitate group problem solving: “The abilities to invite participation (hear all voices, encourage silent members), not take sides, manage dynamics between the monopolizer, the scapegoat, and the bully, and deal with conflict (not avoiding it or shutting down).” 

Furthermore, Jaffa explains that the skills of a strong problem solver aren’t measurable. The best way to become a creative problem solver, he says, is to do regular creative exercises that keep you sharp and force you to think outside the box. Carella echoes this sentiment: “Neuroscience tells us that creativity comes from creating novel neural paths. Allow a few minutes each day to exercise your brain with novel techniques and brain ‘tricks’ – read something new, drive to work via a different route, count backwards, smell a new fragrance, etc.”

What Is Creative Problem Solving? History, Evolution, and Core Principles

Creative problem solving (CPS) is a method of problem solving in which you approach a problem or challenge in an imaginative, innovative way. The goal of CPS is to come up with innovative solutions, make a decision, and take action quickly. Sidney Parnes and Alex Osborn are credited with developing the creative problem solving process in the 1950s. The concept was further studied and developed at SUNY Buffalo State and the Creative Education Foundation. 

The core principles of CPS include the following:

• Balance divergent and convergent thinking
• Ask problems as questions
• Defer or suspend judgement
• Focus on “Yes, and…” rather than “No, but…”

According to Carella, “Creative problem solving is the mental process used for generating innovative and imaginative ideas as a solution to a problem or a challenge. Creative problem solving techniques can be pursued by individuals or groups.”

When asked to define CPS, Jaffa explains that it is, by nature, difficult to create boundaries for. “Creative problem solving is not cut and dry,” he says, “If you ask 100 different people the definition of creative problem solving, you’ll get 100 different responses - it’s a non-entity.”

Business presents a unique need for creative problem solving. Especially in today’s competitive landscape, organizations need to iterate quickly, innovate with intention, and constantly be at the cutting-edge of creativity and new ideas to succeed. Developing CPS skills among your workforce not only enables you to make faster, stronger in-the-moment decisions, but also inspires a culture of collaborative work and knowledge sharing. When people work together to generate multiple novel ideas and evaluate solutions, they are also more likely to arrive at an effective decision, which will improve business processes and reduce waste over time. In fact, CPS is so important that some companies now list creative problem solving skills as a job criteria.

MacLeod reiterates the vitality of creative problem solving in the workplace. “Problem solving is crucial for all groups and teams,” she says. “Leaders need to know how to guide the process, hear all voices and involve all members - it’s not easy.”

“This mental process [of CPS] is especially helpful in work environments where individuals and teams continuously struggle with new problems and challenges posed by their continuously changing environment,” adds Carella. 

Problem Solving Best Practices

By nature, creative problem solving does not have a clear-cut set of do’s and don’ts. Rather, creating a culture of strong creative problem solvers requires flexibility, adaptation, and interpersonal skills. However, there are a several best practices that you should incorporate:

• Use a Systematic Approach: Regardless of the technique you use, choose a systematic method that satisfies your workplace conditions and constraints (time, resources, budget, etc.). Although you want to preserve creativity and openness to new ideas, maintaining a structured approach to the process will help you stay organized and focused. 
• View Problems as Opportunities: Rather than focusing on the negatives or giving up when you encounter barriers, treat problems as opportunities to enact positive change on the situation. In fact, some experts even recommend defining problems as opportunities, to remain proactive and positive.
• Change Perspective: Remember that there are multiple ways to solve any problem. If you feel stuck, changing perspective can help generate fresh ideas. A perspective change might entail seeking advice of a mentor or expert, understanding the context of a situation, or taking a break and returning to the problem later. “A sterile or familiar environment can stifle new thinking and new perspectives,” says Carella. “Make sure you get out to draw inspiration from spaces and people out of your usual reach.”
• Break Down Silos: To invite the greatest possible number of perspectives to any problem, encourage teams to work cross-departmentally. This not only combines diverse expertise, but also creates a more trusting and collaborative environment, which is essential to effective CPS. According to Carella, “Big challenges are always best tackled by a group of people rather than left to a single individual. Make sure you create a space where the team can concentrate and convene.”
• Employ Strong Leadership or a Facilitator: Some companies choose to hire an external facilitator that teaches problem solving techniques, best practices, and practicums to stimulate creative problem solving. But, internal managers and staff can also oversee these activities. Regardless of whether the facilitator is internal or external, choose a strong leader who will value others’ ideas and make space for creative solutions.  Mattimore has specific advice regarding the role of a facilitator: “When facilitating, get the group to name a promising idea (it will crystalize the idea and make it more memorable), and facilitate deeper rather than broader. Push for not only ideas, but how an idea might specifically work, some of its possible benefits, who and when would be interested in an idea, etc. This fleshing-out process with a group will generate fewer ideas, but at the end of the day will yield more useful concepts that might be profitably pursued.” Additionally, Carella says that “Executives and managers don’t necessarily have to be creative problem solvers, but need to make sure that their teams are equipped with the right tools and resources to make this happen. Also they need to be able to foster an environment where failing fast is accepted and celebrated.”
• Evaluate Your Current Processes: This practice can help you unlock bottlenecks, and also identify gaps in your data and information management, both of which are common roots of business problems.

MacLeod offers the following additional advice, “Always get the facts. Don’t jump too quickly to a solution – working through [problems] takes time and patience.”

Mattimore also stresses that how you introduce creative problem solving is important. “Do not start by introducing a new company-wide innovation process,” he says. “Instead, encourage smaller teams to pursue specific creative projects, and then build a process from the ground up by emulating these smaller teams’ successful approaches. We say: ‘You don’t innovate by changing the culture, you change the culture by innovating.’”

Barriers to Effective Problem Solving

Learning how to effectively solve problems is difficult and takes time and continual adaptation. There are several common barriers to successful CPS, including:

• Confirmation Bias: The tendency to only search for or interpret information that confirms a person’s existing ideas. People misinterpret or disregard data that doesn’t align with their beliefs.
• Mental Set: People’s inclination to solve problems using the same tactics they have used to solve problems in the past. While this can sometimes be a useful strategy (see Analogical Thinking in a later section), it often limits inventiveness and creativity.
• Functional Fixedness: This is another form of narrow thinking, where people become “stuck” thinking in a certain way and are unable to be flexible or change perspective.
• Unnecessary Constraints: When people are overwhelmed with a problem, they can invent and impose additional limits on solution avenues. To avoid doing this, maintain a structured, level-headed approach to evaluating causes, effects, and potential solutions.
• Groupthink: Be wary of the tendency for group members to agree with each other — this might be out of conflict avoidance, path of least resistance, or fear of speaking up. While this agreeableness might make meetings run smoothly, it can actually stunt creativity and idea generation, therefore limiting the success of your chosen solution.
• Irrelevant Information: The tendency to pile on multiple problems and factors that may not even be related to the challenge at hand. This can cloud the team’s ability to find direct, targeted solutions.
• Paradigm Blindness: This is found in people who are unwilling to adapt or change their worldview, outlook on a particular problem, or typical way of processing information. This can erode the effectiveness of problem solving techniques because they are not aware of the narrowness of their thinking, and therefore cannot think or act outside of their comfort zone.

According to Jaffa, the primary barrier of effective problem solving is rigidity. “The most common things people say are, ‘We’ve never done it before,’ or ‘We’ve always done it this way.’” While these feelings are natural, Jaffa explains that this rigid thinking actually precludes teams from identifying creative, inventive solutions that result in the greatest benefit.

“The biggest barrier to creative problem solving is a lack of awareness – and commitment to – training employees in state-of-the-art creative problem-solving techniques,” Mattimore explains. “We teach our clients how to use ideation techniques (as many as two-dozen different creative thinking techniques) to help them generate more and better ideas. Ideation techniques use specific and customized stimuli, or ‘thought triggers’ to inspire new thinking and new ideas.” 

MacLeod adds that ineffective or rushed leadership is another common culprit. “We're always in a rush to fix quickly,” she says. “Sometimes leaders just solve problems themselves, making unilateral decisions to save time. But the investment is well worth it — leaders will have less on their plates if they can teach and eventually trust the team to resolve. Teams feel empowered and engagement and investment increases.”

Strategies for Problem Cause Identification

As discussed, most experts agree that the first and most crucial step in problem solving is defining the problem. Once you’ve done this, however, it may not be appropriate to move straight to the solution phase. Rather, it is often helpful to identify the cause(s) of the problem: This will better inform your solution planning and execution, and help ensure that you don’t fall victim to the same challenges in the future. 

Below are some of the most common strategies for identifying the cause of a problem:

• Root Cause Analysis: This method helps identify the most critical cause of a problem. A factor is considered a root cause if removing it prevents the problem from recurring. Performing a root cause analysis is a 12 step process that includes: define the problem, gather data on the factors contributing to the problem, group the factors based on shared characteristics, and create a cause-and-effect timeline to determine the root cause. After that, you identify and evaluate corrective actions to eliminate the root cause.

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Problem Solving Techniques and Strategies

In this section, we’ll explain several traditional and creative problem solving methods that you can use to identify challenges, create actionable goals, and resolve problems as they arise. Although there is often procedural and objective crossover among techniques, they are grouped by theme so you can identify which method works best for your organization.

Divergent Creative Problem Solving Techniques

Brainstorming: One of the most common methods of divergent thinking, brainstorming works best in an open group setting where everyone is encouraged to share their creative ideas. The goal is to generate as many ideas as possible – you analyze, critique, and evaluate the ideas only after the brainstorming session is complete. To learn more specific brainstorming techniques, read this article . 

Mind Mapping: This is a visual thinking tool where you graphically depict concepts and their relation to one another. You can use mind mapping to structure the information you have, analyze and synthesize it, and generate solutions and new ideas from there. The goal of a mind map is to simplify complicated problems so you can more clearly identify solutions.

Appreciative Inquiry (AI): The basic assumption of AI is that “an organization is a mystery to be embraced.” Using this principle, AI takes a positive, inquisitive approach to identifying the problem, analyzing the causes, and presenting possible solutions. The five principles of AI emphasize dialogue, deliberate language and outlook, and social bonding. 

Lateral Thinking: This is an indirect problem solving approach centered on the momentum of idea generation. As opposed to critical thinking, where people value ideas based on their truth and the absence of errors, lateral thinking values the “movement value” of new ideas: This means that you reward team members for producing a large volume of new ideas rapidly. With this approach, you’ll generate many new ideas before approving or rejecting any.

Problem Solving Techniques to Change Perspective

Constructive Controversy: This is a structured approach to group decision making to preserve critical thinking and disagreement while maintaining order. After defining the problem and presenting multiple courses of action, the group divides into small advocacy teams who research, analyze, and refute a particular option. Once each advocacy team has presented its best-case scenario, the group has a discussion (advocacy teams still defend their presented idea). Arguing and playing devil’s advocate is encouraged to reach an understanding of the pros and cons of each option. Next, advocacy teams abandon their cause and evaluate the options openly until they reach a consensus. All team members formally commit to the decision, regardless of whether they advocated for it at the beginning. You can learn more about the goals and steps in constructive controversy here . 

Carella is a fan of this approach. “Create constructive controversy by having two teams argue the pros and cons of a certain idea,” he says. “It forces unconscious biases to surface and gives space for new ideas to formulate.”

Abstraction: In this method, you apply the problem to a fictional model of the current situation. Mapping an issue to an abstract situation can shed extraneous or irrelevant factors, and reveal places where you are overlooking obvious solutions or becoming bogged down by circumstances. 

Analogical Thinking: Also called analogical reasoning , this method relies on an analogy: using information from one problem to solve another problem (these separate problems are called domains). It can be difficult for teams to create analogies among unrelated problems, but it is a strong technique to help you identify repeated issues, zoom out and change perspective, and prevent the problems from occurring in the future. .

CATWOE: This framework ensures that you evaluate the perspectives of those whom your decision will impact. The factors and questions to consider include (which combine to make the acronym CATWOE):

• Customers: Who is on the receiving end of your decisions? What problem do they currently have, and how will they react to your proposed solution?
• Actors: Who is acting to bring your solution to fruition? How will they respond and be affected by your decision?
• Transformation Process: What processes will you employ to transform your current situation and meet your goals? What are the inputs and outputs?
• World View: What is the larger context of your proposed solution? What is the larger, big-picture problem you are addressing?
• Owner: Who actually owns the process? How might they influence your proposed solution (positively or negatively), and how can you influence them to help you?
• Environmental Constraints: What are the limits (environmental, resource- and budget-wise, ethical, legal, etc.) on your ideas? How will you revise or work around these constraints?

Complex Problem Solving

Soft Systems Methodology (SSM): For extremely complex problems, SSM can help you identify how factors interact, and determine the best course of action. SSM was borne out of organizational process modeling and general systems theory, which hold that everything is part of a greater, interconnected system: This idea works well for “hard” problems (where logic and a single correct answer are prioritized), and less so for “soft” problems (i.e., human problems where factors such as personality, emotions, and hierarchy come into play). Therefore, SSM defines a seven step process for problem solving: 

• Begin with the problem or problematic situation 
• Express the problem or situation and build a rich picture of the themes of the problem 
• Identify the root causes of the problem (most commonly with CATWOE)
• Build conceptual models of human activity surrounding the problem or situation
• Compare models with real-world happenings
• Identify changes to the situation that are both feasible and desirable
• Take action to implement changes and improve the problematic situation

SSM can be used for any complex soft problem, and is also a useful tool in change management . 

Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA): This method helps teams anticipate potential problems and take steps to mitigate them. Use FMEA when you are designing (redesigning) a complex function, process, product, or service. First, identify the failure modes, which are the possible ways that a project could fail. Then, perform an effects analysis to understand the consequences of each of the potential downfalls. This exercise is useful for internalizing the severity of each potential failure and its effects so you can make adjustments or safeties in your plan. 

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Problem Solving Based on Data or Logic (Heuristic Methods)

TRIZ: A Russian-developed problem solving technique that values logic, analysis, and forecasting over intuition or soft reasoning. TRIZ (translated to “theory of inventive problem solving” or TIPS in English) is a systematic approach to defining and identifying an inventive solution to difficult problems. The method offers several strategies for arriving at an inventive solution, including a contradictions matrix to assess trade-offs among solutions, a Su-Field analysis which uses formulas to describe a system by its structure, and ARIZ (algorithm of inventive problem solving) which uses algorithms to find inventive solutions. 

Inductive Reasoning: A logical method that uses evidence to conclude that a certain answer is probable (this is opposed to deductive reasoning, where the answer is assumed to be true). Inductive reasoning uses a limited number of observations to make useful, logical conclusions (for example, the Scientific Method is an extreme example of inductive reasoning). However, this method doesn’t always map well to human problems in the workplace — in these instances, managers should employ intuitive inductive reasoning , which allows for more automatic, implicit conclusions so that work can progress. This, of course, retains the principle that these intuitive conclusions are not necessarily the one and only correct answer. 

Process-Oriented Problem Solving Methods

Plan Do Check Act (PDCA): This is an iterative management technique used to ensure continual improvement of products or processes. First, teams plan (establish objectives to meet desired end results), then do (implement the plan, new processes, or produce the output), then check (compare expected with actual results), and finally act (define how the organization will act in the future, based on the performance and knowledge gained in the previous three steps). 

Means-End Analysis (MEA): The MEA strategy is to reduce the difference between the current (problematic) state and the goal state. To do so, teams compile information on the multiple factors that contribute to the disparity between the current and goal states. Then they try to change or eliminate the factors one by one, beginning with the factor responsible for the greatest difference in current and goal state. By systematically tackling the multiple factors that cause disparity between the problem and desired outcome, teams can better focus energy and control each step of the process. 

Hurson’s Productive Thinking Model: This technique was developed by Tim Hurson, and is detailed in his 2007 book Think Better: An Innovator’s Guide to Productive Thinking . The model outlines six steps that are meant to give structure while maintaining creativity and critical thinking: 1) Ask “What is going on?” 2) Ask “What is success?” 3) Ask “What is the question?” 4) Generate answers 5) Forge the solution 6) Align resources. 

Control Influence Accept (CIA): The basic premise of CIA is that how you respond to problems determines how successful you will be in overcoming them. Therefore, this model is both a problem solving technique and stress-management tool that ensures you aren’t responding to problems in a reactive and unproductive way. The steps in CIA include:

• Control: Identify the aspects of the problem that are within your control.
• Influence: Identify the aspects of the problem that you cannot control, but that you can influence.
• Accept: Identify the aspects of the problem that you can neither control nor influence, and react based on this composite information. 

GROW Model: This is a straightforward problem solving method for goal setting that clearly defines your goals and current situation, and then asks you to define the potential solutions and be realistic about your chosen course of action. The steps break down as follows:

• Goal: What do you want?
• Reality: Where are you now?
• Options: What could you do?
• Will: What will you do?

OODA Loop: This acronym stands for observe, orient, decide, and act. This approach is a decision-making cycle that values agility and flexibility over raw human force. It is framed as a loop because of the understanding that any team will continually encounter problems or opponents to success and have to overcome them.

There are also many un-named creative problem solving techniques that follow a sequenced series of steps. While the exact steps vary slightly, they all follow a similar trajectory and aim to accomplish similar goals of problem, cause, and goal identification, idea generation, and active solution implementation.

MacLeod offers her own problem solving procedure, which echoes the above steps:

“1. Recognize the Problem: State what you see. Sometimes the problem is covert. 2. Identify: Get the facts — What exactly happened? What is the issue? 3. and 4. Explore and Connect: Dig deeper and encourage group members to relate their similar experiences. Now you're getting more into the feelings and background [of the situation], not just the facts.  5. Possible Solutions: Consider and brainstorm ideas for resolution. 6. Implement: Choose a solution and try it out — this could be role play and/or a discussion of how the solution would be put in place.  7. Evaluate: Revisit to see if the solution was successful or not.”

Many of these problem solving techniques can be used in concert with one another, or multiple can be appropriate for any given problem. It’s less about facilitating a perfect CPS session, and more about encouraging team members to continually think outside the box and push beyond personal boundaries that inhibit their innovative thinking. So, try out several methods, find those that resonate best with your team, and continue adopting new techniques and adapting your processes along the way. 

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Create Your Course

The most common barriers to learning – and how to overcome them, share this article.

Learning barriers can be physical, mental, emotional, cultural, or social elements that obstruct a student from achieving their learning goals. Here's how to solve them.

You’re about to embark on an exciting new journey — online course creation. Congrats! You’ve made the first of many important decisions. But now, it’s time to think about the next critical aspect — your learners.

As complex human beings, we all respond to different types of learning. No matter if it’s the information itself, how it’s presented, or where we are consuming it, we all have preferences that, if left unconsidered, can cause serious barriers to learning.

Skip ahead:

• What are barriers to learning?  

Exploring common learning barriers

• What barriers in online learning? 

Tips for overcoming learning barriers  

Barriers to learning faqs.

For a quick look before we dive in, below summarizes the most common barriers to learning and examples:

What are barriers to learning?

Learning barriers are the social, personal, or cognitive obstacles that prevent students from learning optimally and achieving their goals. 

Barriers to learning aren’t segmented to certain places or locations. They can pop up almost anywhere a student is attempting to learn or do something new.

They affect everyone, too. Whether you’re a fresher or skilled professional, we all face challenges that can impede our learning process if not well-managed. 

Learning barriers can be intrinsic or extrinsic. 

Extrinsic barriers to learning

These are external factors that affect learning. The major one is your socio-economic background. 

Generally, the better your socio-economic background, the more access you have to learning resources.

For example, students from high-income families can afford the latest technology required for learning. They have access to the internet and can purchase smart devices and laptops for online learning. They can also afford extra lessons after class to brush up on their skills. 

Low-income students, on the other hand, are strapped for learning resources. For example, they have to make do with in-person, instructor-led classes because they cannot afford online learning tools. This restricts them to one learning style that might not be the best for them. 

Your physical environment also affects learning. If your learning environment is noisy and full of distractions, you’ll find it hard to concentrate on online classes and complete assignments on time. 

Intrinsic barriers to learning

Intrinsic barriers are the internal factors that negatively affect how one learns: 

Cognitive barriers

Sometimes, one’s socioeconomic environment is conducive to learning. But, they might be facing cognitive challenges that affect how well they acquire, process, and retain new information and skills.

For example, people with learning disabilities like dyslexia and ADHD learn differently than those who do not have these challenges. A person with ADHD, for instance, might find it harder to pay attention to details and participate in class activities. Similarly, a dyslexic learner might struggle to ask and respond to questions in class. 

Emotional learning barriers 

Being afraid of failing, past insecurities, or fear of change can ignite uncomfortable emotional states that prevent students from taking full advantage of the learning opportunities in front of them.

For example, a student struggled with group presentations in the past. Now, they have to complete one as part of the requirements of their new course. Chances are they’ll be too anxious to do it right because they’re afraid of failing again. 

Lack of motivation is a problem, too. At one point or another, we all hit that 2:30 motivation drag. And depending on your environment or corporate culture, it can be challenging to drum up the energy to learn when you don’t have the right support.

Personal barriers

Personal barriers are the past or current challenges that make it difficult for a person to learn at the same pace as their peers. 

Say you’re working a high-stress job; you might be too tired to complete assessments on time or pay attention to instructor-led classes. 

Other personal learning barriers include: 

• Lack of previous knowledge : If you have a college degree, you likely had to take pre-requisite courses before launching into some of your more specific classes. That’s because you can’t snap your fingers to become a master chef without learning the basics of various cooking methods, utensils, and ingredients.

So, when a new student takes your course without having access to the base knowledge beforehand, it can deter them from engaging in or completing the session entirely.

• Language barriers : For individuals who do not have a strong command of the language of instruction, whether it’s their first language or a second language, language barriers can impede understanding and communication, making it difficult to engage with educational content.

Say English is your first language, and you’re taking a course in German; you might struggle with it if you aren’t fluent in the language. 

What barriers are there in online learning? 

While online learning offers flexibility and convenience and solves the problem of location-restricted education, it comes with its own challenges: 

Internet connectivity issues  

Poor internet connection breaks learner focus, making it harder for them to keep up with the class. 

If this happens during an instructor-led class, you’ll miss important information and struggle to catch up when your device reconnects. If it’s a self-paced class, you’ll need to rewind the lesson, which can be frustrating. 

Lack of motivation

Put a finger down if you registered for an online course only to abandon it a few days later. You’re not alone — only 5–15% of people complete online courses. 

In traditional classroom settings, students often have in-person accountability to instructors and peers. But this goes away with online learning. 

Since there’s no teacher or coursemates to hold you accountable physically, you can easily skip assignments, stretch course modules for too long, or abandon things altogether. 

Online distractions  

It’s so easy to get distracted when you’re learning online — no thanks to the many social platforms vying for your attention. 

Picture this : You log into your online course dashboard. A few minutes in, a Twitter notification pops up, and you decide to check it out. Before you know it, you’ve spent an hour doomscrolling through your timeline, engaging in a pointless argument, and reacting to strangers’ opinions. 

Distractions at home

Many homes aren’t conducive to learning. For example, you could be trying to complete an assessment while your neighbor fells their garden trees or mows the lawn. 

On top of that, you’ll also struggle with frequent interruptions from family members and a bunch of personal entertainment options, like your cable TV and streaming apps. Want to watch a Netflix series instead of completing a course module? Sure, no one is stopping you. You can always complete it later.

These distractions divert your attention away from your coursework and undermine your motivation to study effectively.

Communication barriers 

Online learning reduces face-to-face interactions between students and instructors. This causes a communication gap that can become a bigger problem if not managed properly. 

When you’re learning online, especially for a self-paced course, you’re pretty much on your own. You cannot go over to a course mate’s desk to ask questions. Or raise your hand to let your instructor know you’re struggling with a quiz. 

You might send a question to the teacher via chat and get a response a couple of hours later — which stalls learning. 

These things add up if they are not addressed and reduce your motivation over time. 

We covered more online learning barriers in our article about online education challenges . 

There are many ways to support your students to overcome common learning barriers and enjoy a better experience with your online course. Let’s discuss some practical tips. 

How to overcome socioeconomic barriers 

Offer scaled pricing to support students from lower-income levels. If you can’t offer pricing tiers, let students pay in installments to spead out your course costs.

Scaled pricing means pricing tiers for your online course. For example, you can have a basic tier that gives students access to only the course, while higher tiers come with additional benefits like one-on-one coaching, certification, and the like. 

Thinkific creator, Kat Lee , has three pricing tiers for her Business Alchemist Mentorship program to make it more accessible to her students. Each tier has a description of its ideal target audience to guide people to make the right choice. Students can pay in installments, regardless of the tier. 

Speaking of how she comes up with the right pricing for each tier, Kat says, “I play with the numbers until I feel that my students will honor my time and wisdom and are not stretching themselves to invest.” 

If you’re implementing scaled pricing for the first time, you’ll need a more systematic approach: 

• Add up your production costs to know how much you invested in course creation
• Conduct audience survey to know the lowest and highest amounts your audience is willing to pay
• Decide on the number of tiers you’ll offer and what differentiates each one

Learn more : How to price your online course .

How to overcome motivational barriers  

It’s hard for students to stay motivated when they’re learning in isolation. To help them, integrate communities into your online course where students meet with each other, discuss challenges, and ask questions in real time. 

In Kat’s words, “I find that there’s a disconnect when folks are just given material; there’s a lack of integration that happens, which is why I feel like customized support is so important.”

She actively creates opportunities for face-to-face interactions for all her online courses. For example, the Business Alchemist Mentorship has six-person group cohorts plus a one-on-one coaching option. 

If you’re offering self-paced courses, create online communities — like Slack channels and Facebook groups — to foster networking and real-time interactions among students. Anyone struggling with a part of your course can drop a question on Slack and get immediate help instead of dealing with it alone. 

Learn more: How to build an online community .

How to overcome learning challenges

Be aware and remove obstacles that can prevent your students from engaging fully. Use Universal Design for Learning (UDL) best practices to level the playing field for all learners.  For example:

• Make sure any recordings or videos are accessible with subtitles, closed captions, or text-based alternatives for those with hearing impairments and learning challenges.
• Some learning challenges may require more personal interaction, providing audiobooks, and typing on a computer or tablet instead of writing.
• Include clear, step-by-step instructions and offer multi-sensory options for learners to self-select a method that works well for them.

How to overcome learning experience barrier

When it comes to learning, oftentimes, the experience outweighs the content itself. For example, listening to an instructor with limited interaction will not be the right experience for you if you’re a hands-on learner. The same applies to the information itself — highly complex topics are better communicated through dynamic visuals than text-based materials.

As a result, learning barriers can quickly come up if the overall experience doesn’t meet the students’ needs.

To optimize this, apply learning experience design to your online courses. Learning experience design combines the concepts of instructional design and user experience design to create a user-centric approach that helps students achieve their goals as quickly as possible. With learning experience design, you can create a unique experience with social engagement, multimedia, and hands-on learning that keeps students coming back.

How to overcome lack of previous knowledge barrier

Be clear on the level of knowledge students need to have in the subject matter before enrolling for your course. That way, students are clear on what they need to know to be able to understand the course content. 

You can add a quick “best for” description to your course page to guide pre-enrollers — like Kristina Azarenko, founder of Marketing Syrup Academy , does. 

Or you can go all-in and provide a detailed breakdown of what students need to know to be successful in the course, plus the topics that won’t be covered. Amanda Natividad, VP of Marketing at SparkToro, does this well in her Content Marketing 201 course . 

In addition, design your course with a learning path in mind, and use learning sequences . With learning sequence, you are essentially designing your courses in reverse order. So, you’re starting with your end goal and mapping out the pre-requisite concepts your students need to become familiar with to achieve that objective.

However, you can only do so much as a course creator. Your students must put in the work to bridge any knowledge gaps and bring themselves up to speed on the course material. 

Take Kat Norton, for example. She didn’t have any statistics knowledge when she enrolled for a Data Analytics major. But she dedicated 110% to learning the basics, especially how to create Excel Spreadsheets. That knowledge helped her finish top of her class and eventually build a six-figure creator-educator career as Miss Excel .

How to optimize your course for different learning styles  

There is no universal way of teaching that appeals to every single student. Some learn more easily with visual cues, whereas others respond better to symbols, auditory repetition, or music.

That’s why you need to build content for different learning styles . Not sure how to pull this off? Check out Adam Enfroy’s Thinkific Academy course . Each module includes text summaries and overviews, recorded videos, and a workbook for students to put their learning into action. Consider including whiteboard presentations and slides to illustrate important concepts so it’s easier for your students to understand them. 

Also, break down your course into bite-sized modules to prevent information overload. Instead of having a two-hour course, break it down into six 20-minute-long videos. It’s easier for your students that way. 

On average, students cannot hold more than seven bits of new information in their working memory at a time — so keep this in mind as you design your course content. 

Related: How to design your course visually and structurally

How to overcome emotional barriers to learning

Having a postive attitude to learning can help students overcome any emotional barriers like fear of failure and imposter syndrome. Encourage your students to: 

• Embrace failures and setbacks : Flunked an assessment? Don’t dwell on it. Instead, see it as an opportunity to deepen your knowledge in the subject and try again. Learn, grow and try again.

Course creators can quickly win over uneasy learners by rewarding their efforts through    gamification capabilities or completion certificates that celebrate their success.

• Practice positive affirmations : Use positive affirmations to challenge and replace negative self-talk. Repeat affirmations like “I am capable,” and “I can handle challenges” to rewire your thinking.
• Embrace self-compassion : Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer a friend. Don’t be too hard on yourself when things go wrong, and remember that it’s okay to make mistakes.

Here’s how Kiaundra Jackson encourages students and creators in her community to overcome emotional issues and develop a positive mindset. 

“If you’re an expert in something—either from schooling or personal experience—I believe that you already have everything you need inside of you,” Jackson adds. “The world is just waiting for you to share your knowledge, expertise, and lived experience in a way that’s digestible for others.”

How to optimize the learning experience

When it comes to learning, oftentimes, the experience outweighs the content itself. For example, listening to an instructor with limited interaction will not be the right experience for you if you’re a hands-on learner. The same applies to the information itself – highly complex topics are better communicated through dynamic visuals than text-based materials.

How to optimize this: apply learning experience design to your online courses. Learning experience design combines the concepts of instructional design and user experience design to create a user-centric approach that helps students achieve their goals as quickly as possible. With learning experience design, you can create a unique experience with social engagement, multimedia, and hands-on learning that keeps students coming back.

Pro tip: It also helps to brush up on cognitive load theory to understand how things like dense content, bulky packaging, and lazy processing can impact your students’ learning experiences. 

Let your students guide your online course creation process

When starting your online course development, it is essential to start by understanding your most important audience – the students themselves. Knowing who they are, how they learn best, and what they need to excel will help you break down common barriers to learning and create a memorable learning experience for everyone. 

Find answers to frequently asked questions about online learning barriers. 

What are the common barriers to online learning?

Poor internet connection, online and offline distractions and lack of motivation are some of the barriers affecting how well people learn online. 

How can teachers support students to overcome online learning barriers?

Find out what challenges your students are facing with online learning and work with them to solve it. Say they’re struggling with commiting to timelines; set up an accountable system for tracking their activities and nudging them to complete assignments on time. 

Are there specific resources available to help overcome online learning barriers?

Thinkific shares lots of online learning resources to help you overcome learning barriers and enjoy the best experience with your online courses. Check out our blog for free and helpful online learning content. 

What are the main barriers to learning?

Extrinsic factors like socioeconomic environment and intrinsic barriers like lack of motivation and cognitive limitations are the main barriers affect learning inside and outside of the classroom.

This blog was originally published in July 2021, it has since been updated in November 2023. 

Gaby Rice is a Plus Marketing Specialist who is passionate about creating valuable and engaging content. She loves supporting entrepreneurs and companies to grow their businesses through online education.

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Problem-Solving Mastery: Your Roadmap to Effective Solutions

• Job Skills , Life skills , Soft skills

In today’s rapidly evolving world, problem-solving skills have become more critical. The ability to identify, analyze, and find effective solutions to complex challenges is highly valued across various domains, including education, business, and personal life. Problem-solving skills empower individuals to overcome obstacles, make informed decisions, and confidently navigate uncertain situations. They are key personal and professional success drivers, enabling individuals to adapt to change, innovate, and seize opportunities.

This article will delve into the essential steps for mastering problem-solving skills. We will explore the characteristics of effective problem solvers and highlight the step-by-step process they follow to tackle problems. From defining the problem and gathering information to evaluating solutions and implementing the chosen course of action, we will cover each stage in detail, providing valuable insights and practical strategies. Additionally, we will discuss various techniques and tools that can enhance problem-solving abilities and address common challenges individuals encounter. Whether you are a student, professional, or simply looking to enhance your problem-solving skills, this article will serve as a comprehensive guide to equip you with the necessary knowledge and techniques to become a proficient problem solver.

Understanding Problem Solving

A. definition of problem-solving.

Problem-solving is a fundamental skill applicable across diverse academic, professional, and personal contexts. It plays a crucial role in business, science, engineering, and everyday life, enabling individuals to overcome obstacles, achieve goals, and improve outcomes.

Here are some definitions with sources-

“Problem-solving is the cognitive process of identifying, analyzing, and resolving obstacles or difficulties encountered in order to achieve a desired goal or outcome.”

� Source: – Simon, H. A. (1972). Theories of Bounded Rationality. Decision and Organization, 1(1), 161-176.

� “Problem-solving refers to the systematic approach of finding solutions to challenges by utilizing logical thinking, analytical skills, and creativity.”

Source: – D’Zurilla, T. J., & Nezu, A. M. (2007). Problem-Solving Therapy: A Positive Approach to Clinical Intervention. Springer Publishing Company.

� “Problem-solving is the cognitive process of identifying, analyzing, and overcoming obstacles through the application of problem-solving strategies, critical thinking , and decision-making skills.”

Source: – Fogler, H. S., LeBlanc, S. E., & Rizzo, E. (2020). Strategies for Creative Problem Solving. Pearson.

“Problem-solving involves the ability to define problems, generate potential solutions, evaluate alternatives, and implement the best course of action, resulting in effective decision making and successful resolution of challenges.”

Source: –  Bransford, J. D., Brown, A. L., & Cocking, R. R. (2000). How People Learn: Brain, Mind, Experience, and School : Expanded Edition. National Academies Press.

B. The role of problem-solving in personal and professional life

The Role of Problem-Solving in Personal and Professional Life:

1. Personal Life:

   a. Decision Making: Problem-solving is crucial in making informed decisions about personal matters, such as career choices, relationships, and financial planning.

   b. Resolving Conflicts: Effective problem-solving skills help resolve conflicts and disputes, fostering healthier relationships and communication.

   c. Adaptability: Problem-solving enables individuals to navigate life’s challenges and adapt to changing circumstances, enhancing personal growth and resilience.

   d. Goal Achievement: By identifying obstacles and finding solutions, problem-solving helps individuals overcome barriers and progress towards achieving personal goals.

2. Professional Life:

   a. Innovation and Creativity: Problem-solving is at the core of innovation, enabling individuals to identify opportunities, develop new ideas, and implement creative solutions.

   b. Decision Making: Effective problem-solving skills aid in making sound business decisions, analyzing data, and evaluating options to achieve desired outcomes.

   c. Troubleshooting and Crisis Management : Problem-solving is crucial in addressing workplace issues, identifying root causes, and implementing solutions to operational challenges and crises.

   d. Collaboration and Teamwork: Problem-solving skills facilitate effective collaboration and teamwork, as individuals work together to analyze problems, generate ideas, and implement solutions.

   e. Continuous Improvement: By identifying inefficiencies and finding better solutions, problem-solving drives continuous improvement in processes, products, and services.

   f. Leadership: Strong problem-solving abilities are essential for effective leadership, as leaders navigate complex situations, inspire teams, and drive organizational success.

Overall, problem-solving is vital in personal and professional life, empowering individuals to overcome obstacles, make informed decisions, foster innovation, and achieve desired outcomes. It promotes adaptability, resilience, and growth, enhancing overall success and satisfaction in various aspects of life.

Characteristics of Effective Problem Solvers

Here are some Characteristics of Effective Problem Solvers:

1. Critical Thinking: Effective problem solvers possess strong critical thinking skills. They can analyze situations objectively, evaluate information, identify patterns, and make logical connections to understand the underlying causes of problems.

2. Analytical Skills: Effective problem solvers can break down complex problems into smaller, more manageable components. They can examine each component individually, identify relevant factors, and assess their interrelationships to understand the problem comprehensively.

3. Creativity and Innovative Thinking: Effective problem solvers think outside the box and are open to unconventional ideas and solutions. They approach problems creatively, seeking new perspectives, alternative approaches, and innovative solutions.

4. Persistence and Resilience: Effective problem solvers persevere when facing obstacles and setbacks. They are resilient and maintain a positive attitude, viewing challenges as opportunities for growth and learning rather than insurmountable barriers.

5. Adaptability and Flexibility: Effective problem solvers are adaptable and flexible in their thinking and approach. They are open to adjusting their strategies, considering different viewpoints, and embracing change as they navigate complex problem-solving situations.

6. Systems Thinking: Effective problem solvers consider the larger context and understand the interconnectedness of various factors. They can see how different elements within a system influence each other and recognize the ripple effects of their decisions and actions.

7. Collaboration and Communication: Effective problem solvers are skilled in collaboration and communication. They actively listen to others, seek input and feedback, and can articulate their thoughts and ideas clearly. They can work well in teams, leveraging diverse perspectives and expertise to find optimal solutions.

8. Decision Making: Effective problem solvers are proficient in decision-making . They gather relevant information, weigh different options, assess risks and benefits, and make informed choices based on a logical and rational evaluation process.

9. Continuous Learning: Effective problem solvers have a growth mindset and a thirst for knowledge. They actively seek opportunities to learn new skills, expand their knowledge base, and stay updated on industry trends and advancements.

10. Emotional Intelligence: Effective problem solvers possess emotional intelligence, allowing them to understand and manage their emotions and empathize with others. They can navigate interpersonal dynamics, handle conflicts constructively, and foster positive relationships while solving problems.

These characteristics collectively contribute to the effectiveness of problem solvers, enabling them to approach challenges with a systematic, innovative, and resilient mindset, ultimately leading to successful problem resolution and achieving desired outcomes.

The Problem-Solving Process

Here is The Problem-Solving Process Step by Step:

Step 1: Defining the Problem:

1. Identifying the root cause: To effectively solve a problem, it’s important to identify the underlying cause or causes. This involves digging deeper to understand the factors or circumstances that led to the problem’s occurrence.

2. Clarifying the desired outcome: Clearly defining the desired outcome provides a clear direction for problem-solving. It helps in setting goals and measuring the success of the solution.

Step 2: Gathering information and analyzing the situation:

1. Collecting relevant data and facts: Gathering relevant data and facts about the problem is crucial for making informed decisions. This involves collecting information from reliable sources, conducting surveys, interviews, or analyzing existing data.

2. Conducting research and seeking different perspectives: Researching the problem and seeking different perspectives allows for a comprehensive understanding of the situation. This may involve studying case studies, consulting experts, or getting insights from people who have faced similar challenges.

Step 3: Generating potential solutions:

1. Brainstorming techniques: Brainstorming involves generating many ideas without judgment. It encourages creativity and open-mindedness, allowing for the exploration of various solutions.

2. Considering multiple options: Considering multiple options helps in expanding the range of possibilities. It involves evaluating different approaches, strategies, or alternatives to find the most effective solution.

Step 4: Evaluating and selecting the best solution:

1. Assessing pros and cons: Evaluating the potential solutions involves assessing their advantages and disadvantages. This helps in understanding the potential benefits and drawbacks of each option.

2. Using decision-making tools and techniques: Decision-making tools and techniques, such as decision matrices, cost-benefit analysis, or SWOT analysis, can provide a structured approach to evaluating and comparing different solutions. They help in making an informed decision.

Step 5: Implementing the chosen solution:

1. Developing an action plan: A detailed action plan outlines the steps and tasks needed to implement the chosen solution. It includes setting deadlines, assigning responsibilities, and allocating necessary resources.

2. Overcoming potential obstacles: Anticipating potential obstacles and challenges helps develop contingency plans. By identifying potential barriers in advance, proactive measures can be taken to overcome them and ensure a smoother implementation process.

Step 6: Monitoring and evaluating the outcomes:

1. Assessing the solution’s effectiveness: Regularly monitoring and evaluating the outcomes of the implemented solution is crucial. This involves measuring the results against the desired outcome and assessing whether the solution effectively addresses the problem.

2. Making adjustments if necessary: If the desired outcomes are not achieved or new issues arise, it may be necessary to adjust the solution or implementation plan. This ensures continuous improvement and adaptability throughout the problem-solving process.

By following this step-by-step process, individuals and teams can approach problem-solving systematically and comprehensively, increasing the chances of finding effective solutions and achieving desired outcomes.

Techniques and Strategies for Effective Problem Solving

Here are some Techniques and Strategies for Effective Problem Solving:

A. SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats):

SWOT analysis is a widely used technique for understanding a situation or organization’s internal strengths and weaknesses and the external opportunities and threats it faces. It involves identifying and analyzing these four factors to gain insights into the current state and potential future scenarios. One can effectively capitalize on opportunities and mitigate threats by understanding strengths and weaknesses.

B. Root cause analysis:

Root cause analysis is a technique used to identify the underlying cause or causes of a problem. It involves digging deeper into the problem to determine the fundamental reasons for its occurrence. By identifying and addressing the root cause, rather than just treating symptoms, one can prevent the problem from recurring and find long-term solutions.

C. Pareto analysis:

Pareto analysis, also known as the 80/20 rule, is a technique that helps prioritize tasks or issues based on their significance. It involves identifying the vital few (20%) contributing to the majority (80%) of the problem. One can achieve the greatest impact with limited resources by focusing efforts on addressing the most significant factors.

D. Six Thinking Hats technique:

The Six Thinking Hats technique, developed by Edward de Bono, is a method for approaching problem-solving from different perspectives. Each “hat” represents a different thinking mode or mindset, such as logical, creative, critical, etc. By consciously adopting these different perspectives, individuals or teams can explore different angles, consider various factors, and enhance problem-solving.

E. Design thinking approach:

The design thinking approach is a human-centered problem-solving methodology. It emphasizes empathy, collaboration, and experimentation to understand the user’s needs, ideate innovative solutions, and iterate through prototypes. It involves several stages, including empathizing with users, defining the problem, ideating potential solutions, prototyping, and testing. This approach encourages a creative and iterative problem-solving process that delivers solutions meeting user needs.

By utilizing these techniques and strategies for effective problem-solving, individuals and teams can enhance their problem-solving capabilities, think more critically and creatively, and arrive at comprehensive and innovative solutions to address various challenges.

Overcoming Common Challenges in Problem-Solving�

Now we discuss how to overcome Common Challenges in Problem-Solving:

A. Emotional barriers and biases:

1. Self-awareness: Recognize and acknowledge your emotions and biases that may hinder the problem-solving process.

2. Objective perspective: Strive to approach problems with an open mind and consider alternative viewpoints.

3. Seek feedback: Involve others in problem-solving to gain diverse perspectives and challenge your biases.

B. Fear of failure and risk aversion:

1. Embrace a growth mindset: View failures as learning opportunities and be open to taking calculated risks.

2. Break problems into smaller steps: Breaking down complex problems into smaller, manageable tasks can help reduce the Fear of failure.

3. Experiment and iterate: Implement solutions in iterative stages, allowing for adjustments and learning from setbacks.

C. Lack of communication and collaboration:

1. Active listening: Listen attentively to others’ perspectives, fostering effective communication and understanding.

2. Encourage participation: Create a supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable contributing ideas and insights.

3. Foster teamwork: Promote collaboration and establish clear roles and responsibilities within problem-solving teams.

D. Ineffective time management:

1. Prioritize tasks: Identify the most critical aspects of the problem and allocate time accordingly.

2. Set deadlines and milestones: Establish specific deadlines for each step of the problem-solving process to stay on track.

3. Avoid distractions: Minimize interruptions and focus on the task by creating a conducive work environment.

By addressing these common problem-solving challenges, individuals and teams can enhance their problem-solving effectiveness and achieve better outcomes. Overcoming emotional barriers and biases, embracing risk-taking, fostering effective communication and collaboration, and managing time efficiently are key factors in successful problem-solving endeavors. By developing strategies to tackle these challenges, individuals can unlock their problem-solving potential and approach challenges with confidence and resilience.

Developing Problem-Solving Skills�

Is it possible to develop problem-solving skills? Yes, it is possible. But How?�

A. Continuous learning and skill development:

1. Stay curious: Cultivate a continuous learning mindset by seeking new knowledge, exploring different perspectives, and staying updated on industry trends.

2. Acquire relevant knowledge: Develop a solid foundation in the areas relevant to problem-solving, such as critical thinking, analytical skills, creativity, and decision-making.

3. Pursue professional development: Attend workshops, training programs, and online courses on problem-solving techniques and strategies.

B. Seeking feedback and reflection:

1. Welcome constructive criticism: Seek feedback from peers, mentors, or supervisors to gain insights into areas for improvement in your problem-solving approach.

2. Reflect on past experiences: Evaluate your problem-solving efforts, identify strengths and weaknesses, and learn from your successes and failures.

3. Develop self-awareness: Understand your thinking patterns, biases, and emotional reactions to improve your problem-solving skills.

C. Practicing problem-solving exercises and scenarios:

1. Solve puzzles and brain teasers: Engage in activities that challenge your problem-solving abilities, such as puzzles, riddles, or logic games.

2. Simulate problem-solving scenarios: Create hypothetical problem-solving situations and brainstorm potential solutions to enhance your critical thinking and decision-making skills.

3. Participate in group problem-solving activities: Collaborate with others in problem-solving exercises or workshops to foster teamwork and develop effective communication skills.

D. Engaging in real-life problem-solving experiences:

1. Embrace challenges: Seek opportunities to tackle real-world problems, whether at work, in personal projects, or community initiatives.

2. Apply problem-solving techniques: Utilize the problem-solving process and relevant strategies to address issues encountered in various aspects of life.

3. Learn from experiences: Reflect on your problem-solving approach in real-life situations, identify areas of improvement, and adjust your strategies accordingly.

Developing problem-solving skills is an ongoing process that requires continuous learning, practice, and application in both simulated and real-life scenarios. By investing time and effort in skill development, seeking feedback, reflecting on experiences, and engaging in problem-solving activities, individuals can strengthen their problem-solving abilities and effectively address complex challenges.

Applying Problem-Solving Skills in Different Areas

Now we will discuss Applying Problem-Solving Skills in Different Areas:

A. Problem-solving in the workplace:

Problem-solving skills are highly valuable in the workplace as they enable individuals to address challenges, make informed decisions, and contribute to organizational success. In a professional setting, problem-solving involves identifying and analyzing issues, generating effective solutions, and implementing them to achieve desired outcomes. It often requires collaboration, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving techniques. Effective problem-solving in the workplace can lead to increased productivity, improved teamwork, and innovation.

B. Problem-solving in personal relationships:

Problem-solving skills play a crucial role in maintaining healthy and constructive personal relationships. Conflicts and challenges are inevitable with family members, friends, or romantic partners. Applying problem-solving skills in personal relationships involves active listening, empathy, and open communication. It requires identifying and understanding the issues, finding common ground, and working towards mutually beneficial solutions. Problem-solving in personal relationships helps build trust, strengthen connections, and promote harmony.

C. Problem-solving in entrepreneurship:

Problem-solving is an essential skill for entrepreneurs, as it drives innovation and the ability to identify and seize opportunities. Entrepreneurs face various challenges, such as market competition, resource constraints, and changing customer needs. Applying problem-solving skills in entrepreneurship involves identifying market gaps, analyzing customer pain points, and developing innovative solutions. Entrepreneurs must be adaptable, resilient, and creative in finding solutions that address real-world problems and create customer value.

D. Problem-solving in everyday life:

Problem-solving skills are not limited to specific areas but are applicable in everyday life. From simple tasks to complex decisions, problem-solving helps navigate challenges efficiently. Everyday problem-solving involves assessing situations, setting goals, considering available resources, and making informed choices. It can range from troubleshooting technology issues to managing personal finances, resolving conflicts, or finding solutions to logistical problems. Developing problem-solving skills in everyday life leads to increased self-confidence, improved decision-making abilities, and overall personal effectiveness.

In all these areas, applying problem-solving skills enables individuals to approach challenges with a structured and analytical mindset, find practical solutions, and overcome obstacles effectively. It empowers individuals to think critically, adapt to changing circumstances, and positively contribute to various aspects of their lives.

Case Studies of Successful Problem Solving

Here are some Case Studies of Successful Problem Solving:

A. Real-life examples of problem-solving success stories:

1. NASA’s Apollo 13 Mission: The Apollo 13 mission faced a critical problem when an oxygen tank exploded, jeopardizing the lives of the astronauts. Through collaborative problem-solving, the NASA team on the ground and the astronauts in space worked together to develop innovative solutions, such as building a makeshift CO2 filter, conserving power, and navigating a safe return to Earth.

2. Apple’s iPhone Development: Apple faced the challenge of creating a revolutionary smartphone that combined multiple functions in a user-friendly design. Through rigorous problem-solving, Apple’s team developed groundbreaking solutions, such as the touch screen interface, intuitive user experience, and integration of various technologies, leading to the successful launch of the iPhone.

3. Toyota’s Lean Manufacturing System: Toyota encountered production inefficiencies and quality issues. By implementing problem-solving techniques, such as the Toyota Production System, the company focused on waste reduction, continuous improvement, and empowering employees to identify and solve problems. This increased productivity, improved quality, and a competitive advantage in the automotive industry.

B. Analysis of the problem-solving strategies employed:

1. Collaborative Problem-Solving: Successful problem-solving often involves collaboration among individuals or teams. Organizations can tackle complex challenges more effectively by leveraging diverse perspectives, knowledge, and skills.

2. Innovative Thinking: Problem-solving success stories often involve innovative thinking to address issues in novel ways. This may include exploring new technologies, challenging conventional wisdom, or adopting creative approaches that disrupt the status quo.

3. Systematic Approach: Effective problem-solving requires a systematic approach that involves defining the problem, gathering relevant information, analyzing options, and implementing solutions. This structured method provides a comprehensive understanding of the problem and helps identify the most appropriate action.

4. Continuous Improvement: Many successful problem-solving cases are committed to continuous improvement. Organizations embracing a learning and adaptability culture are better equipped to identify and solve problems efficiently, leading to long-term success.

5. Customer-Centric Solutions: Problem-solving strategies that prioritize understanding and meeting customer needs tend to yield successful outcomes. Organizations can develop solutions that deliver value and drive customer satisfaction by placing the customer at the center of problem-solving efforts.

Analyzing the problem-solving strategies employed in these case studies provides valuable insights into the approaches, techniques, and mindsets that contribute to successful problem resolution. It highlights the importance of collaboration, innovation, systematic thinking, continuous improvement, and customer focus in achieving positive outcomes.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, problem-solving skills are vital in various aspects of life, including personal, professional, and entrepreneurial endeavors. Through this article, we have explored the importance of problem-solving, its Definition, its role in different areas, characteristics of effective problem solvers, the problem-solving process, and techniques for effective problem-solving. We have also examined case studies of successful problem-solving and analyzed the strategies employed.

Recap of key points:

1. Problem-solving skills are crucial for personal, professional, and entrepreneurial success.

2. Effective problem solvers possess critical thinking, creativity, adaptability, and perseverance.

3. The problem-solving process involves defining the problem, gathering information, generating solutions, evaluating options, implementing the chosen solution, and monitoring outcomes.

4. Techniques like SWOT analysis, root cause analysis, Pareto analysis, Six Thinking Hats, and design thinking provide valuable frameworks for problem-solving.

As you have learned about the importance and various aspects of problem-solving, I encourage you to apply these skills in your own life. Problem-solving is not a mere intellectual exercise but a practical tool that can lead to personal growth, professional success, and positive societal contributions. Developing and honing your problem-solving abilities allows you to navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and find innovative solutions.

Embrace a continuous improvement mindset and a willingness to think outside the box. Seek opportunities to apply problem-solving skills in your relationships, workplace, entrepreneurial ventures, and everyday life. Remember that each challenge presents an opportunity for growth and learning. You can overcome obstacles and achieve desired outcomes by approaching problems with a structured and analytical mindset, considering multiple perspectives, and employing effective problem-solving techniques.

Incorporate problem-solving into your daily life and encourage others to do the same. By doing so, you contribute to a more proactive and solution-oriented society. Remember, problem-solving is a skill that can be developed and refined through practice and experience. So, take on challenges, embrace creativity, and be a proactive problem solver.

Start applying problem-solving skills today, and you will witness the positive impact it can have on your life and the lives of those around you.

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Solve Problems Before They Happen: Proactive Strategies for Success

We all know that prevention is better than cure, and this is especially true when it comes to problem-solving. Proactive problem-solving is a crucial skill in both personal and professional life that can lead to long-term success. In this article, we will discuss the importance of proactive problem-solving and provide you with strategies to adopt a proactive approach to prevent problems before they even occur.

Understanding the Importance of Proactive Problem-Solving

The most successful individuals and organizations are those who take a proactive approach to problem-solving. Proactive problem-solving involves identifying potential problems before they occur and taking action to prevent them from becoming an issue. This approach minimizes the risk of facing unexpected challenges that can cause an array of consequences, including financial loss, missed opportunities, reputational damage, and emotional stress. With proactive problem-solving, you can avoid these downsides and ensure smooth operations, happier stakeholders, and greater chances for success.

One of the key benefits of proactive problem-solving is that it allows you to stay ahead of the competition. By identifying potential issues before they arise, you can take steps to address them and maintain a competitive edge. This can be especially important in industries that are constantly evolving, where being able to adapt quickly can make all the difference.

Another advantage of proactive problem-solving is that it can help you build stronger relationships with your stakeholders. By demonstrating that you are proactive and committed to addressing potential issues, you can build trust and confidence with your customers, employees, and partners. This can lead to increased loyalty, better collaboration, and a more positive reputation overall.

Identifying Potential Problems in Advance

To adopt a proactive problem-solving approach, you must first identify the potential problems that could occur. Conduct a systematic review of your personal or professional life and consider the future. You can also study your past experiences to recognize trends and recurring issues. This foresight will provide you with the knowledge to recognize potential problems and take action to prevent or mitigate them.

One effective way to identify potential problems is to seek feedback from others. Ask for input from colleagues, friends, or family members who have experience in the area you are concerned about. They may be able to provide valuable insights and perspectives that you had not considered before.

Another approach is to conduct research and gather information about similar situations or industries. This can help you anticipate potential challenges and prepare accordingly. By staying informed and up-to-date, you can stay ahead of potential problems and be better equipped to handle them if they do arise.

Analyzing the Root Causes of Problems

When you have identified potential problems, you must analyze their root causes to understand the underlying reason for their occurrence. This involves conducting a rigorous analysis of the problem, including researching and tracking data, conducting team discussions, and brainstorming sessions. This analysis will enable you to develop a comprehensive understanding of the problem, enabling you to develop effective solutions.

It is important to note that analyzing the root causes of problems is not a one-time event. As you implement solutions, it is important to monitor their effectiveness and track any new issues that may arise. This ongoing analysis will help you to identify any underlying issues that may be contributing to the problem, allowing you to make necessary adjustments and improvements to your solutions.

Implementing Preventative Measures to Avoid Future Problems

Once you have identified potential problems and analyzed their root causes, the next step is to implement preventative measures to avoid future issues. This can include adopting new policies and procedures, improving training and education programs, providing resources and tools to team members, and implementing new technologies. By implementing preventative measures, you can create a safer and more efficient environment for your personal or professional life.

One important aspect of implementing preventative measures is to regularly review and update them. As new technologies and best practices emerge, it is important to ensure that your preventative measures are still effective and relevant. This can involve conducting regular risk assessments and seeking feedback from team members and stakeholders.

Another key factor in implementing preventative measures is to foster a culture of safety and accountability. This involves encouraging team members to report potential issues and providing them with the support and resources they need to do so. It also involves holding individuals and teams accountable for following policies and procedures, and addressing any issues that arise in a timely and effective manner.

Creating a Culture of Proactivity in Your Organization

If you are a leader in an organization, it is essential to create a culture of proactivity in your team. Encourage your team members to adopt a proactive approach to problem-solving by rewarding innovation and taking calculated risks. Emphasize the importance of early detection, root cause analysis, and pragmatic preventative measures. Create a continuous learning culture that encourages individuals to seek feedback and improve their performance continually.

One way to foster a culture of proactivity is to provide your team members with the necessary resources and tools to succeed. This includes access to training programs, mentorship opportunities, and the latest technology. By investing in your team's development, you are demonstrating your commitment to their success and encouraging them to take ownership of their work.

Another critical aspect of creating a proactive culture is to lead by example. As a leader, you must model the behavior you want to see in your team. This means taking initiative, being accountable for your actions, and demonstrating a willingness to learn and grow. By setting the tone for proactivity, you can inspire your team to follow suit and create a culture of continuous improvement.

Teaching Others to Think Proactively

You can also help others by teaching them to think proactively. Share your personal experiences with proactive problem-solving and how it has benefited you in your life. Encourage them to identify potential problems and analyze their root causes. Provide them with the tools and resources they need to implement preventative measures that can prevent problems from occurring in the first place.

Additionally, it is important to emphasize the importance of taking action and not just identifying potential problems. Encourage others to develop a plan of action and follow through with it. Help them to prioritize tasks and allocate resources effectively. By teaching others to think proactively and take action, you can empower them to become more effective problem-solvers and achieve their goals more efficiently.

Building Resilience to Handle Unexpected Challenges

Even with proactive problem-solving strategies in place, you may still face unexpected challenges. Therefore, it is essential to build resilience to handle these situations effectively. Resilience is about developing mental and emotional strength to overcome unexpected challenges and bounce back from setbacks. This involves developing positive coping mechanisms, maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and having a support network in place.

One way to build resilience is to practice mindfulness and meditation. These practices can help you stay present in the moment and manage stress and anxiety. Additionally, regular exercise and a healthy diet can also contribute to building resilience by improving physical and mental health.

It is also important to remember that building resilience is an ongoing process. It requires consistent effort and a willingness to learn and grow from challenges. By developing resilience, you can not only handle unexpected challenges but also thrive in the face of adversity.

Communicating Effectively to Prevent Misunderstandings

Misunderstandings and communication problems can also cause significant issues in personal and professional life. Therefore, it is essential to communicate effectively to prevent these issues. This involves actively listening, clarifying instructions and expectations, expressing yourself clearly and respectfully, and providing feedback effectively. Effective communication can help prevent misunderstandings from escalating into more serious problems.

One important aspect of effective communication is being aware of cultural differences. Different cultures may have different communication styles and expectations, and being aware of these differences can help prevent misunderstandings. For example, in some cultures, direct communication may be preferred, while in others, indirect communication may be more common.

In addition, technology has changed the way we communicate, and it is important to be mindful of how we use it. While technology can make communication more efficient, it can also lead to misunderstandings if not used appropriately. It is important to consider the context and audience when choosing the appropriate communication method, whether it be email, text, or face-to-face communication.

Developing a Problem-Solving Mindset for Long-Term Success

Finally, one of the most important strategies for proactive problem-solving is cultivating a problem-solving mindset. This mindset involves approaching problems with a positive attitude and a structured problem-solving approach. It involves being open-minded and embracing the challenge, rather than being overwhelmed by the problem. With a problem-solving mindset, you can identify potential problems, analyze their root causes, and implement effective solutions that lead to success.

One way to cultivate a problem-solving mindset is to practice mindfulness and meditation. These practices can help you develop a sense of calm and clarity, which can be useful when facing difficult problems. Additionally, practicing mindfulness can help you become more aware of your own thought patterns and biases, which can help you approach problems with a more open and objective mindset.

Another important aspect of developing a problem-solving mindset is to embrace failure as a learning opportunity. Rather than being discouraged by setbacks, view them as opportunities to learn and grow. Analyze what went wrong, identify areas for improvement, and use that knowledge to approach future problems with greater confidence and effectiveness.

Using Data and Analytics to Anticipate Problems

Data and analytics are valuable tools that can help you anticipate problems in advance. By analyzing historical data and identifying trends, you can proactively predict potential problems and take action to prevent them from occurring. This approach enables you to stay ahead of the curve and implement preventative measures before problems arise.

One of the key benefits of using data and analytics to anticipate problems is that it allows you to optimize your resources. By identifying potential issues before they occur, you can allocate your resources more efficiently and effectively. This can help you save time, money, and other valuable resources.

Another advantage of using data and analytics is that it can help you improve your decision-making process. By analyzing data and identifying patterns, you can make more informed decisions that are based on facts and evidence. This can help you avoid making decisions based on assumptions or guesswork, which can lead to costly mistakes.

Incorporating Technology for Proactive Problem-Solving Solutions

Incorporating technology into your proactive problem-solving can provide you with innovative and effective solutions. You can use various software programs to help you detect problems early, analyze root causes, and implement preventative measures. Using technology allows you to automate tasks, save time, and reduce the risk of human error.

One of the most significant benefits of incorporating technology into your proactive problem-solving is the ability to collect and analyze data. With the help of data analytics tools, you can gather and analyze large amounts of data to identify patterns and trends that may be contributing to the problem. This information can help you make informed decisions and implement effective solutions.

Another advantage of using technology for proactive problem-solving is the ability to collaborate with team members and stakeholders. With the help of collaboration tools, you can share information, ideas, and solutions with others in real-time. This can help you gain valuable insights and perspectives that you may not have considered otherwise.

The Benefits of Proactive Problem-Solving in Personal Life and Work

Proactive problem-solving provides numerous benefits, including increased efficiency, higher productivity, better quality of life, and reduced stress. When you adopt a proactive problem-solving approach, you can avoid unnecessary problems, minimize risks, and make better-informed decisions. In personal life, proactive problem-solving can lead to better relationships, improved health, and overall happiness. In the workplace, proactive problem-solving can lead to increased profitability, higher customer satisfaction, and improved team morale.

Moreover, proactive problem-solving can also enhance your problem-solving skills and creativity. By taking a proactive approach, you are forced to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions to problems. This can lead to personal and professional growth, as well as increased confidence in your abilities. Additionally, proactive problem-solving can help you develop a sense of control over your life and work, as you are actively taking steps to prevent and solve problems before they arise. Overall, adopting a proactive problem-solving approach can have a significant positive impact on both your personal and professional life.

Best Practices for Successful Proactive Problem-Solving

Successful proactive problem-solving involves adopting best practices that have been proven to be effective. These include involving team members in problem-solving, encouraging innovative solutions, continuously learning, maintaining a positive attitude, and being flexible to change. Incorporating these best practices into your proactive problem-solving strategies can help you achieve success.

Another important best practice for successful proactive problem-solving is to establish clear communication channels. This means ensuring that everyone involved in the problem-solving process is aware of the issue at hand, the goals and objectives, and the steps being taken to address the problem. Clear communication can help to avoid misunderstandings and ensure that everyone is working towards the same goal.

It is also important to regularly evaluate and assess your proactive problem-solving strategies. This can help you identify areas for improvement and make necessary adjustments to your approach. By regularly reviewing your strategies, you can ensure that you are staying up-to-date with the latest best practices and techniques, and that you are continuously improving your problem-solving skills.

Measuring the Success of Your Proactive Strategies

Finally, it is essential to measure the success of your proactive problem-solving strategies. You can gather feedback from team members, study data and metrics, and track progress to evaluate the effectiveness of your approach. This information can then be used to fine-tune your strategies, identify areas for improvement, and ultimately achieve even greater success.

In conclusion, adopting a proactive problem-solving approach in your personal and professional life is a critical component of success. With the strategies discussed in this article, you can identify potential problems, analyze their root causes, and implement effective preventative measures to avoid them. By doing so, you can enjoy the benefits of a safer, more efficient, and happier life.

One important aspect of measuring the success of your proactive strategies is to set clear goals and objectives. This will help you to determine whether your strategies are achieving the desired outcomes. For example, if your goal is to reduce the number of customer complaints, you can track the number of complaints before and after implementing your proactive measures. By setting measurable goals, you can also motivate your team and celebrate successes along the way.

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Breaking through Barriers: Effective Methods for Overcoming Obstacles

As we go through life, we are sure to face obstacles that may seem insurmountable at times. However, by employing effective techniques and strategies, we can overcome these barriers and achieve success. In this article, I will discuss various methods for breaking through barriers and overcoming obstacles so that you can unlock your full potential and experience personal growth . Whether you are facing challenges in your personal or professional life, the strategies outlined in this article will help you develop the resilience and problem-solving skills necessary to overcome any obstacle.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Effective methods can be employed to overcome any obstacle.
• Developing a positive and growth mindset is key to breaking through barriers .
• Building resilience can help you maintain motivation during trying times.
• Setting clear goals can provide direction and purpose to overcome obstacles.
• Effective time management is essential for maximizing productivity and prioritizing tasks.

Understanding the Obstacles

When faced with an obstacle, it’s essential to understand the nature of the challenge before attempting to overcome it. This requires careful consideration and problem-solving techniques to identify the underlying issues and develop a plan of action.

To begin with, you should analyze the obstacle and break it down into smaller, more manageable parts. This will help you gain a better understanding of the problem and identify potential solutions. It’s also crucial to approach the challenge with an open mind and a willingness to learn.

There are several problem-solving techniques you can use to help you analyze the obstacle, such as brainstorming, root cause analysis, and the 5 Whys technique. These methods can help you identify the underlying issues and develop a plan of action to overcome the obstacle.

Brainstorming

Brainstorming is a useful technique that involves generating a list of ideas and solutions to a problem. This technique can be done alone or in a group and encourages creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. To begin brainstorming, write down all the possible solutions you can think of, no matter how unrealistic they may seem. Once you have a list of ideas, analyze each one and determine its feasibility and potential for success.

Root Cause Analysis

Root cause analysis is a problem-solving technique that involves identifying the underlying cause of a problem. This technique is useful in situations where the cause of the obstacle is not immediately apparent. To conduct a root cause analysis, ask yourself “why” several times to drill down to the underlying cause of the problem. Once you’ve identified the root cause, you can develop a plan of action to address the issue.

The 5 Whys Technique

The 5 Whys technique is a problem-solving technique that involves asking “why” five times to identify the underlying cause of a problem. This technique is useful in situations where a problem keeps reoccurring and its root cause is not immediately apparent. By asking “why” repeatedly, you can drill down to the underlying cause of the problem and develop a plan of action to overcome it.

By understanding the obstacles and utilizing these problem-solving techniques , you can gain a better understanding of the issues you may face and develop effective strategies to overcome them.

Building Resilience

When facing obstacles, having resilience can make all the difference. Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks and remain motivated in the face of challenges.

To build resilience, I recommend practicing mindfulness and gratitude. By remaining present in the moment and focusing on positive aspects in your life, you can develop a more resilient mindset.

Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep can help bolster your resilience.

Remember, setbacks and obstacles are a natural part of the journey towards success. They provide opportunities for growth and development. By building resilience , you can not only overcome obstacles but also thrive in the face of adversity.

Setting Clear Goals

Setting clear goals is crucial for overcoming obstacles and achieving success. Without specific and measurable targets, progress can be difficult to track, and motivation may wane. To ensure your goals are effective, start by identifying what you want to achieve. This could be a long-term, overarching ambition or a short-term, specific milestone.

Once you have a clear picture of your objective, break it down into smaller, more achievable goals. This can make the task less daunting and help you stay motivated. In addition, consider setting deadlines for each goal to provide structure and accountability.

When defining your goals, ensure they are SMART goals – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This framework ensures that your goals are clear and actionable, helping you stay focused and moving forward towards your objective.

“Without goals, and plans to reach them, you are like a ship that has set sail with no destination.” – Fitzhugh Dodson

Remember, goals should be challenging but achievable with effort and commitment. If goals are too easy, they may not push you towards growth and development. On the other hand, unrealistic goals can lead to frustration and disappointment. Strive for balance and be flexible in adjusting your goals as circumstances change.

Visualizing your goals can also be helpful in achieving success. Create a vision board or write your goals down and display them in a visible location where you can see them daily. This can serve as a constant reminder of what you are working towards and provide motivation when faced with obstacles.

Tips for Setting Effective Goals

With clear goals in place, you can stay focused and motivated, overcoming obstacles with determination and purpose. Remember that setting goals is an ongoing process, and it’s essential to review and adjust them regularly to ensure they remain relevant and effective.

Developing Effective Strategies

When facing obstacles, it’s essential to approach them with a strategic mindset. By developing effective strategies , you can navigate challenges with confidence and increase your chances of success. There are several effective methods you can use to develop these strategies, including:

• SWOT analysis: This technique helps identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to determine what actions to take.
• Mind mapping: This visual tool can help organize ideas and create a plan of action.
• Benchmarking: Studying best practices and successful examples can provide insight into how to approach a challenge.

It’s crucial to tailor your strategy to the specific obstacle you’re facing and be open to adjusting it as needed. Remember to always keep your goals in mind and stay focused on the desired outcome.

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill

Cultivating a Growth Mindset

A growth mindset is a belief that with effort and perseverance, one can develop their abilities and improve. In contrast, a fixed mindset is the belief that intelligence and abilities are predetermined and cannot be changed. By cultivating a growth mindset , I can overcome obstacles and achieve personal growth .

One effective way to cultivate a growth mindset is to embrace challenges as opportunities for development. Instead of fearing failure, I can view it as a chance to learn and grow. This mindset shift can provide the motivation I need to push past obstacles and persist in the face of difficulty.

Another important aspect of developing a growth mindset is the power of “yet.” When facing a challenge, adding the word “yet” to the end of a statement can reframe it as a work in progress rather than a failure. For example, instead of saying, “I can’t do this,” I can say, “I can’t do this yet.” This reframe acknowledges the struggle while emphasizing the possibility of growth and improvement.

Benefits of Cultivating a Growth Mindset

Cultivating a growth mindset can have numerous benefits for personal growth and development. By embracing challenges and seeing them as opportunities for growth, I can develop greater resilience and perseverance. With a growth mindset, I am more likely to set ambitious goals and persist in achieving them. Additionally, I will be more open to feedback and willing to learn from my mistakes.

By adopting a growth mindset, I can transform obstacles into stepping stones towards success. This mindset, combined with effective strategies for problem-solving, can help me overcome any challenge and achieve my goals.

“The only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it.” – Steve Jobs

Seeking Support and Collaboration

As much as we try to overcome obstacles on our own, seeking support and collaboration from others can be incredibly beneficial. By doing so, we open ourselves up to new perspectives and knowledge that can help us find innovative solutions to our challenges.

Mentors, peers, and professionals in our network can provide valuable advice and guidance to help us tackle difficult obstacles. Collaborating with others can also help us leverage their expertise and resources, providing us with the necessary boost to overcome any hurdle.

Building a network of support is an ongoing process that requires continuous investment of time and effort. However, it can pay off tremendously when facing significant challenges that seem insurmountable alone.

When seeking support and collaboration , it’s crucial to do so in a way that promotes mutual respect, transparency, and accountability. Clear communication and mutual trust are necessary components of successful collaboration , and it’s essential to establish these early on.

Embracing Failure as a Learning Opportunity

Failure is a natural part of any journey towards success. It’s important to remember that setbacks are not the end of the road, but rather an opportunity for growth and improvement. By embracing failure as a valuable learning opportunity , you can turn negative experiences into catalysts for success.

When faced with a failure, try reframing it as a stepping stone towards your goals. Ask yourself what you can learn from the experience and how you can use that knowledge to move forward. By approaching failure with a growth mindset, you can shift your perspective and view obstacles as opportunities for personal development.

It’s also important to remember that failure is not a reflection of your self-worth. Everyone experiences failures, even the most successful people. Don’t let one setback define your self-image or discourage you from pursuing your goals.

Take the time to reflect on what went wrong and what you can do differently in the future. Use the lessons you’ve learned to adapt your approach and refine your strategy. By treating failures as valuable learning opportunities, you can become more resilient, more motivated, and more likely to achieve success.

Managing Stress and Overcoming Fear

As I mentioned earlier, stress and fear can be major roadblocks on the path to overcoming obstacles and achieving success. Whether it’s fear of failure or stress from external factors, such as work or relationships, it can be challenging to stay focused and confident when facing adversity.

However, it’s essential to learn effective techniques for managing stress and overcoming fear . One approach is mindfulness meditation, which involves focusing your attention on the present moment without judgment. This practice can help reduce stress and anxiety, allowing you to approach challenges with a clearer mind.

The Benefits of Exercise

Exercise is also an effective strategy for managing stress and reducing fear. Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters that can help reduce stress levels and enhance feelings of well-being. Plus, regular exercise can improve overall health, which can help build resilience and improve mental clarity.

Facing Your Fears

When it comes to overcoming fear , it’s essential to confront your fears head-on. While avoidance may provide temporary relief, it can also reinforce the fear and make it more challenging to overcome in the long run.

“The only thing we have to fear is fear itself” – Franklin D. Roosevelt

By facing your fears and taking small steps towards overcoming them, you can gradually build confidence and resilience.

The Power of Positive Thinking

Finally, cultivating a positive mindset can significantly impact your ability to manage stress and overcome fear. By practicing positive thinking and focusing on potential solutions rather than obstacles, you can shift your perspective and stay motivated in the face of adversity.

Remember, managing stress and overcoming fear are ongoing processes that require consistent effort and practice. By taking the time to learn and implement effective techniques, you can cultivate emotional resilience and tackle obstacles with clarity and focus.

Developing Adaptability

As I mentioned earlier, change is constant, and it’s essential to develop adaptability to overcome obstacles. Effective methods for developing adaptability include being flexible and open-minded. By embracing change and remaining receptive to new ideas and approaches, you can navigate uncertain situations with ease.

For example, during my previous job, the company underwent a significant restructuring, which led to changes in my role and responsibilities. To adapt to the new situation, I enrolled in training programs to acquire new skills that were in line with my revised job description. By being open-minded and willing to learn, I could successfully navigate the changes and continue to excel in my role.

Another effective method for developing adaptability is to seek out new experiences and take on new challenges. By stepping outside of your comfort zone, you can build resilience and learn new skills. Traveling to new places, participating in new hobbies, or taking on new projects are great ways to challenge yourself and develop adaptability.

“Adaptability is about the powerful difference between adapting to cope and adapting to win.” -Max McKeown

Cultivating a Positive Mindset

When we face obstacles, it’s easy to get bogged down in negative thinking, which can make it harder to find solutions. That’s why cultivating a positive mindset is so crucial. By focusing on the positive and reframing challenges in a constructive light, we can boost our motivation and resilience. Here are some effective methods for cultivating a positive mindset :

• Gratitude Journaling: Take a few minutes each day to write down things you’re grateful for. This can help shift your focus to the positive and boost your overall mood.
• Affirmations: Repeat positive affirmations to yourself regularly, such as “I am capable,” “I am strong,” or “I am resilient.” These can help you build confidence and counter negative self-talk.
• Visualization: Picture yourself overcoming obstacles and achieving your goals. This can help boost your motivation and remind you of the bigger picture.
• Self-Care: Take care of yourself both physically and mentally. Get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and eat a healthy diet. This can help you feel more energized and positive.

By incorporating these methods into your daily routine, you can cultivate a positive mindset and build the resilience you need to overcome obstacles.

Celebrating Progress and Successes

As I work towards overcoming obstacles and achieving my goals, it’s important to take time to acknowledge and celebrate my progress and successes . No matter how small the achievement may seem, celebrating these wins helps me stay motivated and focused on my goals.

Celebrating progress is crucial for maintaining momentum and overcoming obstacles with confidence.

One way to celebrate progress is to keep track of my accomplishments, whether it’s through a journal or a visual representation like a milestone chart. This helps me see how far I’ve come and gives me a boost of confidence to continue working towards my goals.

Another way to celebrate progress is to share my successes with others. Whether it’s with close friends or on social media, sharing my achievements with others helps me feel proud of what I’ve accomplished and can inspire others to do the same.

Sharing my successes with others helps me feel proud of what I’ve accomplished and can inspire others to do the same.

Celebrating successes and progress not only boosts my motivation but also reinforces a positive mindset and helps me appreciate the journey towards achieving my goals. By recognizing and acknowledging my progress, I am reminded that every step I take towards my goals is significant and valuable.

Continuous Growth and Learning

As we face obstacles and challenges, we must remember that growth and learning are ongoing processes. Embracing continuous learning and seeking personal development opportunities is crucial to our success. By committing to lifelong growth, we can continually expand our skill set and overcome new challenges.

Learning new skills and gaining new knowledge can help us become better problem solvers and innovators. It can also help us stay relevant in a constantly evolving world. By seeking out new opportunities for growth, we can remain adaptable and ready to face whatever obstacles come our way.

Continuous growth means staying curious and open-minded, even when faced with adversity. Whether we are learning from our mistakes or seeking out new information, we must approach every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Remember, overcoming obstacles is not a one-time event. It is an ongoing journey that requires commitment, resilience, and a growth mindset. By striving for continuous growth and learning, we can unlock our potential and achieve our goals.

Implementing Effective Time Management

As I mentioned earlier, effective time management is crucial for overcoming obstacles and achieving success. While it may seem daunting, managing your time can be a lot easier than you think, especially when you have the right strategies in place. Here are some practical tips and techniques to help you manage your time more effectively:

• Prioritize your tasks: Make a to-do list and prioritize your tasks based on their level of importance and urgency.
• Set realistic deadlines: Be realistic when setting deadlines for your tasks. Give yourself enough time to complete each task without rushing or sacrificing quality.
• Avoid multitasking: Focus on one task at a time to ensure maximum productivity and avoid getting overwhelmed.
• Use tools and apps: There are many tools and apps available that can help you manage your time more effectively. Find the ones that work best for you and integrate them into your daily routine.

By implementing these strategies, you can optimize your time and stay on track towards achieving your goals.

The Pomodoro Technique

One time management technique that has gained popularity in recent years is the Pomodoro Technique. This technique involves working in focused intervals of time, typically 25 minutes, followed by short breaks.

The idea is to break your work down into manageable chunks and avoid burnout by taking regular breaks. Using a timer, you work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After every four Pomodoros, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes.

This technique is a great option if you struggle with procrastination or getting distracted easily. By setting a timer and working in short bursts, you can stay focused and productive while avoiding burnout.

The Eisenhower Matrix

Another helpful time management tool is the Eisenhower Matrix, also known as the Urgent-Important Matrix. This tool categorizes tasks based on their level of urgency and importance and helps you prioritize your to-do list accordingly.

The matrix has four quadrants:

By using this tool, you can prioritize your tasks based on their level of urgency and importance, which can help you stay organized and focused.

Implementing effective time management strategies can help you overcome obstacles and achieve your goals. Remember to prioritize your tasks, set realistic deadlines, and use time management tools like the Pomodoro Technique and the Eisenhower Matrix. By taking control of your time, you can stay organized, focused, and productive on your journey to success.

After exploring various strategies and techniques for overcoming obstacles, I firmly believe that there are effective methods that anyone can implement to achieve success. By breaking through barriers , building resilience , setting clear goals , developing effective strategies , cultivating a growth mindset , seeking support and collaboration, embracing failure , managing stress and fear, developing adaptability , cultivating a positive mindset, celebrating progress and successes, and committing to continuous growth and learning, anyone can unlock their full potential.

It’s important to remember that the journey to success is not always easy, and obstacles are inevitable. However, by implementing these methods and techniques, you can navigate challenges with confidence and determination. Remember to stay resilient in the face of adversity, stay focused on your goals, and keep a positive mindset.

Through these tried-and-tested methods, you can overcome any obstacle and achieve the success you desire. I hope these insights will provide you with the tools and inspiration you need to conquer any hurdle that comes your way.

What are effective methods for overcoming obstacles?

There are several effective methods for overcoming obstacles, including setting clear goals, developing effective strategies , building resilience, cultivating a growth mindset, seeking support and collaboration, embracing failure as a learning opportunity , managing stress and overcoming fear, developing adaptability, cultivating a positive mindset, celebrating progress and successes, continuous growth and learning, and implementing effective time management techniques.

How can I understand the obstacles I face?

Understanding the obstacles you face is crucial for overcoming them. You can employ problem-solving techniques to analyze and identify the challenges. This involves assessing the situation, gathering information, and formulating potential solutions. By understanding the nature of the obstacles, you can develop targeted strategies to overcome them.

How can I build resilience?

Building resilience is essential for overcoming obstacles. You can strengthen your resilience by maintaining motivation, developing a growth mindset, seeking support from mentors and peers, embracing failure as a learning opportunity , managing stress effectively, overcoming fear, and cultivating adaptability. These strategies will help you bounce back from setbacks and maintain a positive mindset in the face of challenges.

Why is setting clear goals important?

Setting clear goals provides direction and purpose. When you define and pursue specific objectives, you can stay focused and motivated. Clear goals also enable you to assess progress and make necessary adjustments along the way. By setting clear goals, you can effectively navigate obstacles and increase your chances of achieving success.

How can I develop effective strategies for overcoming obstacles?

Developing effective strategies involves leveraging proven techniques and problem-solving approaches. You can analyze the obstacles you face, brainstorm potential solutions, and evaluate the pros and cons of each strategy. It is also helpful to seek insights and advice from mentors or professionals who have overcome similar challenges. By employing effective strategies, you can enhance your problem-solving abilities and improve your chances of success.

How can cultivating a growth mindset help in overcoming obstacles?

Cultivating a growth mindset involves believing in your ability to improve and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth. By adopting this mindset, you see obstacles as temporary setbacks rather than insurmountable barriers. This perspective enables you to approach challenges with resilience and determination, thereby increasing your likelihood of overcoming them and achieving personal growth.

Why is seeking support and collaboration important?

Sometimes, the support and collaboration of others are essential for overcoming obstacles. Seeking help from mentors, peers, or professionals allows you to tap into their expertise and perspectives. This broader network of support can provide fresh insights and innovative solutions to the challenges you face. By collaborating with others, you can overcome obstacles more effectively.

How can I embrace failure as a learning opportunity?

Embracing failure involves reframing setbacks as valuable learning opportunities. Instead of focusing on the negative aspects, you can extract lessons from your failures and apply them to future endeavors. By viewing failure as a necessary part of the journey to success, you can remain resilient and maintain a positive mindset in the face of obstacles.

What are some techniques for managing stress and overcoming fear?

To manage stress effectively, you can practice stress reduction techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or engaging in activities that help you relax and unwind. Overcoming fear involves identifying and challenging the underlying beliefs or thoughts that contribute to the fear. By cultivating emotional resilience and adopting effective stress management techniques, you can navigate obstacles with clarity and focus.

Why is developing adaptability important in overcoming obstacles?

Change is constant, and developing adaptability is crucial for overcoming obstacles. By being flexible and open-minded, you can navigate uncertain situations and embrace new approaches. Developing adaptability allows you to adjust your strategies and mindset as needed, enabling you to overcome challenges more effectively.

How can I cultivate a positive mindset in overcoming obstacles?

Cultivating a positive mindset involves adopting techniques such as reframing challenges in a constructive light, practicing gratitude, and focusing on solutions rather than dwelling on problems. By harnessing the power of positivity, you can stay motivated and resilient in the face of adversity, increasing your chances of overcoming obstacles.

Why is celebrating progress and successes important?

Celebrating progress and acknowledging successes, no matter how small, is vital for staying motivated. Recognizing and celebrating achievements boosts self-confidence and provides a sense of fulfillment. By taking the time to acknowledge your progress, you can maintain momentum and overcome obstacles with confidence.

How can I continue to grow and learn while overcoming obstacles?

Overcoming obstacles is an ongoing process of growth and learning. You can commit to continuous growth by seeking personal development opportunities, such as attending workshops, reading books, or acquiring new skills. By embracing a growth mindset and actively pursuing learning, you can continually expand your capabilities and overcome new challenges.

What are effective time management techniques for overcoming obstacles?

Implementing effective time management techniques involves prioritizing tasks, setting deadlines, eliminating distractions, and utilizing productivity tools. By optimizing your time, you can stay organized and focused on conquering obstacles, maximizing your chances of success.

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• v.9(4); 2016 Dec

Recommendations for Detecting and Addressing Barriers to Successful Supervision

Tyra p. sellers.

1 Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation, Utah State University, 2865 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322 USA

Linda A. LeBlanc

2 Trumpet Behavioral Health, 390 Union, Suite 300, Lakewood, CO 80228 USA

Amber L. Valentino

Behavior analysts who supervise staff are responsible for establishing a healthy supervisory relationship and for teaching basic behavior analytic skills (e.g., verbal repertoires, technical repertoires, clinical decision-making). In addition, supervisors should prepare their supervisees to succeed in their subsequent professional activities by developing their interpersonal skills and professionalism repertoires. Difficulties in the supervisor relationship and problematic personal and professional skills often become the focus of targeted supervision efforts after the effects of deficits (e.g., avoidance of supervision, complaints from consumers, persistent tardiness) are detected. The primary purpose of this paper is to provide guidance to the supervisor’s effort to identify and address barriers to successful supervision related to a damaged supervisory relationship and persistent interpersonal and professional skills of the supervisee. A secondary purpose of this paper is to act as a general call to supervisors to continually and thoughtfully reflect on their own history, repertoires, and behavior, such that they may continue professional growth as supervisors.

Practicing behavior analysts are frequently responsible for training and supervising staff (DiGennaro Reed & Henley, 2015 ; Parsons, Rollyson, & Reid, 2012 ; Turner et al., 2016 ). There is a dearth of evidence-based resources to guide specific supervision activities and to guide the full set of repertoires that should be targeted in supervision. In a recent article in this special issue, the current authors provided practicing behavior analysts with recommendations for creating effective supervisory experiences (Sellers, Valentino, & LeBlanc, 2016 ). Sellers et al. suggest that supervisors should follow five recommended practices: (1) establish an effective supervisor–supervisee relationship, (2) establish a structured approach with specific content and competencies, (3) evaluate the effects of your supervision, (4) incorporate ethics and professional development into supervision, and (5) continue the professional relationship post-certification. The authors suggest specific strategies that the supervisor might use to achieve success. For example, an effective supervisor–supervisee relationship should begin with an honest discussion about the purpose and scope of supervision, the expectations for performance, and the commitment to the relationship by both parties. These recommended practices are designed to enhance the supervisor’s ability to influence the supervisee’s acquisition of behavior analytic skills (e.g., assessing preferences, writing behavior intervention plans), and acquisition of professional and interpersonal skill sets (e.g., inspiring confidence in clients, getting along with peers).

Even when supervisors follow all of these recommended practices, problems may become evident throughout the course of supervision. The problems may be in the supervisory relationship itself (e.g., the supervisee avoids supervision due to a history of aversive interactions, perception of favoritism among supervisees, resistance to accepting feedback), or they may be related to the supervisee’s interpersonal skills (e.g., socially unskilled, poor time management). These deficits and excesses could limit the success of supervision and ongoing professional activities. Problems might arise because the supervisor has not initially engaged in optimal supervisory practices or has not yet explicitly shaped the interpersonal and professional repertoires. Problems may also arise because reasonable supervisory practices proved ineffective for various reasons. These issues are distinct from performance issues related to the supervisee’s repertoire of behavior analytic skills (e.g., difficulty identifying the differences between a motivating operation and discriminative stimulus), but can be equally detrimental to long-term success as a behavior analyst (Bailey & Burch, 2010 ).

Behavior analysts solve problems by identifying the function or cause of the problem so that function-based intervention strategies can be employed. This same approach is useful in the context of supervisory relationships (Turner et al., 2016 ). Taking a systematic approach to solving problems that arise in supervision provides a critical model for the supervisee’s future professional behavior. The inability to employ effective supervisory skills can have serious repercussions for an organization, such as staff dissatisfaction and turnover (DiGennaro Reed & Henley, 2015 ; Scott, Nolin, & Wilburn, 2006 ). There is also risk to consumers if behavior analysts fail to develop the interpersonal and self-management skills that are necessary for effective practice.

Unfortunately, supervisors may sometimes react to a stressful supervisory situation (e.g., negative interactions with the supervisee, deteriorating performance of the supervisee) with one of two escape responses: ignoring it or terminating the relationship. First, the supervisor might be susceptible to subtle negative reinforcement contingencies and ignore the problem if there have not yet been any serious negative consequences. For example, a supervisor might provide extensions to deadlines to manage a supervisee’s time management problems during the relationship, but the supervisee will likely fail in future situations when deadline extensions are not available. Directly addressing disorganization and tardiness by teaching the supervisee to employ their own time management strategies and organization systems (e.g., Allen, 2015 ) would be an alternative function-based solution. Second, a particularly frustrated supervisor might terminate the supervisory relationship or transfer the supervisory relationship to another person. This strategy immediately removes the irritant for the supervisor, but may worsen the supervisee’s long-term likelihood of successful development, as a new supervisor might not detect the issue. In addition, this approach removes the opportunity for the supervisor to grow and learn from the experience of identifying and addressing these repertoires using a behavior analytic approach. Many issues that arise may be unpleasant to address, and require additional effort to successfully resolve, which may contribute to some supervisors avoiding them.

Behavior analysts can rely on evidence-based staff training practices and methods for assessing and addressing performance issues related to behavior analytic skills (Carr, Wilder, Majdalany, Mathisen, & Strain, 2013 ; DiGennaro Reed, Hirst, & Howard, 2013 ; Parsons et al., 2012 ). However, there are fewer published resources to guide the supervisor’s efforts in addressing problems in the relationship, or in basic interpersonal and professionalism repertoires. Fortunately, as behavior analysts, we have an established framework for assessing and intervening with performance issues if we focus on applying the same principles and skills that we use to benefit our consumers. Therefore, supervisors should engage in direct assessment of the supervisory relationship, developing performance plans for him/herself or his/her supervisee when necessary, to ensure that the supervisory relationship is healthy and productive. The field could benefit from additional resources providing specific recommendations to assist behavior analysts providing supervision in detecting and addressing some of the most commonly occurring problems that arise in supervision contexts.

The primary purpose of this paper is to provide guidance to the supervisor’s effort to identify and address barriers to successful supervision related to: (1) a damaged supervisory relationship and (2) persistent interpersonal and professional issues of the supervisee. A secondary purpose of this paper is to act as a general call to supervisors to continually and thoughtfully reflect on their own history, repertoires, and behavior, such that they may continue professional growth as supervisors. The authors drew from relevant literature and books, as well as their combined experience proving supervision throughout their careers. Due to the scope and breadth of this topic, it is not possible to provide in depth descriptions or examples for each suggestion; however, readers are encouraged to explore the resources cited and pursue additional training and discussions with colleagues when problems arise. To assist accessing resources, a table is included (Table ​ (Table1). 1 ). Questions are provided in the appendix to facilitate use of this article for instructional, supervisory, or continued professional development activities (e.g., journal clubs). The recommendations included herein are most appropriate for behavior analysts supervising individuals who are governed by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB®) (i.e., Registered Behavior Technicians™ (RBT™), Board Certified Associate Behavior Analysts® (BCaBA®), Board Certified Behavior Analysts® (BCBA®) or those seeking to become registered or certified). However, many recommendations are relevant to behavior analysts in charge of supervising other clinical staff (e.g., non-registered/certificated line staff and paraprofessionals).

Resources for addressing issues during supervisions

Problems in the Supervisory Relationship

Throughout the supervisory relationship, the behavior analyst must evaluate the effectiveness of the supervision that has been provided (Professional and Ethical Compliance Code for Behavior Analysts 5.07, Behavior Analyst Certification Board®, 2014 ). An effective supervisor is also consistently evaluating the quality and health of the supervisory relationship to ensure an opportunity to effect change in the supervisee’s behavior. The critical first step for the supervisor is to continually and actively assess for developing issues in an attempt to detect them before they worsen and/or negatively impact consumers with whom the supervisee is working. Self-evaluation and close attention to the supervisee’s behavior can also provide a means for supervisors to identify issues, ranging from simple to complex.

The supervisor should make time at each supervisory meeting to actively assess the status of the supervisory relationship to ensure early detection of any problems that may be developing. For example, the supervisor may begin each meeting by asking the supervisee how things are going related to the supervisory relationship (e.g., “Do you feel comfortable with the amount and type of feedback being provided,” “Are there any additional supports I could provide,”). If the supervisee shares a success or a difficulty, or provides feedback about the supervisor’s behavior, the supervisor can provide praise and guidance. Starting each meeting with this sort of check-in may eventually result in the check-in serving as a discriminative stimulus for the supervisee to discuss developing issues or concerns in a proactive manner. Engaging in these behaviors can indicate to the supervisee that the supervisor values maintaining a collaborative relationship.

Some problems in the supervisory relationship might be detected by answers to the questions listed above. Other problems may be detected in the subtle behavior of the supervisee (e.g., frequent uncomfortable or unproductive supervision meetings). For example, patterns of canceling meetings or preferring phone meetings to live contact could be indicators that the supervisee is engaging in avoidance behavior. Some supervisees may become emotional (e.g., crying, holding their breath, averting their gaze, arguing) in response to feedback or task assignments. Alternatively, a supervisee who is typically talkative in meetings may speak less as a result of a developing problem in the supervisory relationship. Speaking less could function to avoid feedback or detection of a lack of understanding of a particular topic. The supervisee may have contacted punishment (e.g., perceived harsh criticism) for incorrect answers in the past, or his or her own lack of confidence in the material may be discriminative for a “smile and nod” response that has been reinforced in the past. Supervisors should attend to subtle indicators of potential problems such as changes in vocal and facial affect, body language, eye contact, and changes in vocal behavior (e.g., talking less or more, change in tone of voice, stuttering, or other verbal dysfluencies).

Note that these same subtle indicators could also be indicative of distress due to significant singular life events (e.g., death in the family, illness). The supervisor should gather information to assist in determining if this behavior appears to be evoked by specific events, and if the supervisee might need additional supports (e.g., referral to counseling or other support services). However, if the behavior is characteristic or occurring at increasing frequency, then the problem may be related to the quality of the supervisory relationship and warrants specific attention and intervention. The supervisor might attempt to gather some data on the frequency of these behaviors to determine if they occur frequently enough to warrant addressing. With some thought, the supervisor can likely operationalize the behavior(s) of concern to facilitate monitoring or data collection. In the event that the behavior is difficult to define, the supervisor might consider taking a few minutes at the end of each meeting to write some anecdotal notes summarizing the supervisee’s behavior during the meeting.

In addition to assessing for behavior that may indicate an emerging or present issue, it is also important to consider the supervisee’s history with supervision. Supervisors should inquire directly about the supervisee’s past experience with supervision at the start of the relationship. Asking the supervisee about his or her history with supervisors might reveal valuable information that could resolve or prevent emerging issues. For example, the supervisee might share that a previous supervisor delivered corrective feedback in an aversive way leading the supervisee to become anxious before meetings and cancel them. With this information, the supervisor can work to address the issue by changing his or her own behavior with the goal of strengthening the supervisory relationship.

Ensuring that corrective feedback is delivered in a supportive and respectful manner may increase the acceptance of the message (Reid & Parsons, 2006 ; Reid, Parsons, & Green, 2012 ). Another strategy could be to increase the frequency with which low stakes corrective feedback is delivered. For example, the supervisor may identify that feedback about errors performing behavior reductive strategies evokes anxious or defensive behavior, but the supervisee accepts feedback about writing style or implementing skill acquisition programming in a professional manner. The supervisor might provide feedback more often around writing and skill acquisition programs, followed by praise for accepting the feedback and making the needed changes. This may help to provide the supervisee with a more current positive history around receiving performance feedback, and research has demonstrated the efficacy of frequent feedback (Alvero, Bucklin, & Austin, 2001 ). Another strategy could be to increase the active support during and after corrective feedback. Including empathetic and supportive statements during the feedback session may create a more pleasant experience for the supervisee (Reid et al., 2012 ). For example, the supervisor might say: “I know it’s difficult to hear that you need to keep working on this skill, but we will tackle this together.” Following the feedback session the supervisor might create opportunities for the supervisee to practice, allowing the supervisor to provide praise. In addition, the supervisor can check in with the supervisee later in the day, or the next day, to assess how the feedback session affected the supervisee. The supervisor might send a quick text or email, such as: “Hi Mary! Just checking in to see how things went for the rest of your day. I sure appreciated your hard work in our meeting.” Providing the follow-up check-ins may communicate to the supervisee that he or she is valued and that the supervisor is invested in his or her success.

It is also important to note that supervisees may not be able to tact the problems that existed in previous supervisory relationships, perhaps due to a limited history with supervisors in general, or limited work history. In these cases, it may be useful to ask open-ended questions and deduce based on the supervisee’s response. For example, the supervisor might ask: “Tell me what a typical supervision session looked like for you when you worked with your past supervisor.”, or “How did you feel after a supervision meeting in the past?” The aforementioned changes in body language and voice, as well as the content of the message, may offer insight into some of the problems that existed.

At the first sign of difficulties, the supervisor should assess his or her own behavior relative to the supervisee. In other words, consider whether it is the behavior of the supervisor that must change (e.g., smile more, reprimand less, actively acknowledge how much you value the opportunity to teach someone things that they do not know) in order to produce a change in the behavior of the supervisee. For example, perhaps the supervisor has not been timely and organized and the supervisee has lost respect for them as a mentor. Perhaps the supervisor has not provided sufficient reinforcement or opportunities for practicing skills in role-play or observed direct implementation, or provided effective corrective feedback about pinpointed skills for improvement. We refer the reader to existing resources for guidance on skills that may increase the effectiveness and structure of the supervisory activities (Reid et al., 2012 ; Sellers et al., 2016 ). Changes in the supervisor’s instructional repertoire may result in positive outcomes for the supervisory relationship.

The next step is to determine if the supervisee’s performance issues are generally related to aspects of the supervisory relationship (i.e., the supervisee would likely perform better under the supervision of someone else), or are a function of skill deficits on the part of the supervisee (i.e., even under optimal supervisory conditions, the problems would be present or persist). If the issues appear to stem from skill deficits, the supervisor should employ a functional behavior assessment framework. That is, the supervisor should define the behavior of concern, determine the conditions under which the behavior is likely to occur or not, and identify the relevant reinforcer maintaining the problematic behavior or the critical barrier to acquiring the targeted skill.

For example, one might have a supervisee who is consistently late to meetings and misses deadlines for reports. To assess if this is a pervasive problem, or if it is specific to the current supervisory relationship, the supervisor might check in with past supervisors and also examine his or her own behavior (e.g., Are meeting times and deadlines reasonable? Are expectations clear?). If the supervisor determines that this is a persistent performance problem, the supervisor should examine the relevant antecedents (e.g., the supervisee has no consistent planning and calendaring system, the supervisee has difficulty prioritizing tasks) and consequences (e.g., the supervisee misses a non-preferred part of the meeting, someone else completes a significant portion of the report). In this case, it could be that the supervisee’s behavior of arriving late to meetings and not turning in reports on time is maintained by negative reinforcement. With knowledge about the function of the problem behavior, the supervisor can proceed with implementing function-matched interventions (e.g., moving the non-preferred portion of the meeting to the middle or end of the agenda, removing the option to have someone else complete the report). This would likely be combined with other components, such as teaching and reinforcing things like time management skills, breaking down and prioritizing tasks, and goal setting.

It is possible that issues in the supervisory relationship have arisen, at least in part, due to the supervisor’s behavior. For example, perhaps the supervisor has engaged in behavior that leads to distrust (e.g., failing to follow through with obligations, blaming the supervisee, assigning the supervisee responsibilities for which he or she is not qualified, taking credit for the supervisee’s work). Supervisors who employ punishment, coercion, or harsh feedback styles could damage supervisory relationships and occasion avoidance or counter-controlling behaviors on the part of the supervisee. Behaviors related to the supervisor’s level of management might also damage the supervisory relationship. As an example, an overly involved supervisor may not allow the supervisee to progress in levels of independence and responsibility, thus preventing the development of self-confidence and independent skills. The supervisee might perceive that the supervisor does not have confidence in the supervisee’s ability. On the other hand, a supervisor who is vague and does not clarify expectations is not providing sufficient prompts to occasion correct responding on the part of the supervisee. This supervisor might be perceived as disinterested, not invested in the supervisee’s success, or as setting the supervisee up for failure. The above behaviors could result in the supervisory relationship becoming aversive, with the supervisee working to avoid interactions, or becoming sullen, withdrawn, or argumentative.

The recommendations for addressing all of the issues listed above are similar. Supervisors should take a multi-step approach to repairing the relationship with a sincere apology and a well-thought out action plan for changes in the ongoing relationship. The first step is to clearly describe the problematic behavior in the context of an apology. For example, the supervisor might say: “I owe you an apology because I have been overly harsh in my corrective feedback, and have not been clear about my expectations.” The second step is to describe how the behavior has impacted the supervisee. Continuing with the same example, the supervisor might provide the following acknowledgement: “I am sorry that you have felt like you have been ineffective or undervalued.” Steps one and two essentially amount to acknowledging the impact of the supervisor as a critical environmental determinant of the supervisee’s behavior.

The third step is to describe how the supervisor’s behavior has negatively impacted the supervisory relationship. The supervisor in our example might say: “Providing harsh feedback and unclear expectations has not been helping you develop the skills we have targeted for you, and has likely made you want to minimize your interactions with me.” The fourth step in the process is to clearly indicate what the supervisor will do instead of the problematic behavior. This critical step serves the dual functions of (1) demonstrating to the supervisee that the supervisor has engaged in a thoughtful, critical analysis of his or her behavior, and (2) providing the opportunity for the supervisor to overtly describe the remediation plan publicly which may increase the likelihood that the supervisor will follow through. The supervisor might say: “I will make sure that I do not raise my voice when giving corrective feedback. I will also provide written bullet points of expectations for assigned tasks and I will review those with you to model, practice, and answer questions.” The fifth and final step is to have a follow-up conversation to evaluate the effects of the apology and the action plan.

In addition to the process outlined above, there are several other strategies worth mentioning. The supervisor might review articles on supervisory practice from other disciplines for resources to address general barriers (Scott et al., 2006 ) and specific issues such as providing effective feedback (Hulse & Robert, 2014 ). The supervisor could invite the supervisee to have an open an honest conversation about the relationship, with the goal of identifying where breakdowns occur and what might be done to fix them. The supervisor might directly ask the supervisee what he or she can do differently to foster a more positive supervisory relationship (e.g., break complex tasks into smaller components, slow the rate of assignment of new tasks). The supervisee might provide insight into preferences for interpersonal interaction style (e.g., less humor or sarcasm, no public praise). The supervisor could also reach out to a mentor to provide guidance with effective problem solving or to observe the mentor conducting supervision meetings.

In some cases, the issues might be due to “relationship conflict” (Lau & Cobb, 2010 ). This type of conflict is characterized by a mismatch between an essential characteristic, value, or world view of the supervisee and supervisor. Perceptions or beliefs about things like religion, culture, gender, political identity, and sexual orientation may be underlying barriers to a healthy supervisory relationship, as can core communication styles (e.g., being very direct versus being softer and more indirect). The mismatch may produce clear feelings of discomfort or overt behavior that communicates disapproval. In other instances, these mismatches might result in covert and very subtle behavior that slowly erodes the relationship over time. For example, a supervisor with certain strong religious beliefs may find it uncomfortable to provide supervision to someone who holds different religious beliefs, or is a member of a group that is not accepted within the supervisor’s religion. On the other hand, a supervisor who exhibits relatively flat affect may negatively impact some supervisees who perceive the flat affect as aversive, creating a barrier to developing an effective supervisory relationship. The effects in situations like these will likely be cumulative and slowly erode the relationship over time.

The supervisor or supervisee experiencing such issues is certainly distressed by the mismatch, but that distress does not justify engaging in behavior that directly or indirectly damages the relationship. The first step towards a remedy is for the supervisor to self-assess the degree to which he or she feels capable of behavior change. In many cases, it is difficult to expect a supervisor or supervisee to change a fundamental characteristic, personal value, or religious belief. In cases such as these, our professional code requires that we take measures (e.g., seek out training, consultation, or mentorship) to ensure that the differences do not impede our ability to provide effective supervision (Compliance Code 1.05(c), BACB, 2014 ). The supervisor and supervisee may need to initiate an open, but mutually respectful, conversation about the differences early in the relationship (Daniels & D’Andrea, 1996 ). Supervisors should recognize the inherent power differential in the supervisory relationship, navigating the conversation accordingly to actively learn about the supervisee’s culture, experiences, perspectives, and goals (Daniels, D’Andrea, & Kyung Kim, 1999 ).

Hughes Fong, Catagnus, Brodhead, Quigley, & Field ( 2016 ) provide recommendations for behavior analysts that are specifically related to increasing cultural awareness in their work with consumers. One can translate the authors’ specific recommendations around increasing cultural awareness as applicable to the supervisor–supervisee relationship. A supervisor can employ strategies such as talking about culturally diverse experiences with colleagues, practicing mindfulness (i.e., focusing on the present moment), and committing to being scientific-minded (Hughes Fong et al., 2016 ; Kupferschmidt, 2016 ; Szabo, 2015 ). Engaging in these behaviors may result in the supervisor increasing self-awareness and ability to identify preconceptions and assumptions about the supervisee that might be barriers to effective supervision. Hughes and colleagues also suggest using structured self-evaluation tools [see Hughes Fong et al. ( 2016 ) for a description of recommended evaluations and references], which may facilitate a supervisor’s ability to assess the degree to which he feels that the supervisory relationship can move forward.

If the supervisor feels that he or she can mitigate the underlying perceptions and behaviors that are barriers to the relationship, then it is reasonable and responsible to attempt to do so. However, it is critical that the supervisor engages in honest self-reflection, as continuing to provide supervision within an unhealthy relationship is unfair to the supervisee if the supervisee would have a more effective experience with a different supervisor. If the supervisor identifies that the primary relationship barriers cannot be changed or eliminated, then the supervisor should have an honest, direct conversation with the supervisee to facilitate a transition to a different supervisor (Chang, 2013 ; Turner et al., 2016 ). In fact, when the supervisor cannot effectively resolve the barrier, the Compliance Code directs a BCBA to make a referral to a supervisor who will be able to provide effective services (Compliance Code 1.05(c), BACB 2016). The conversation is likely to be tense and could evoke escape and avoidance reactions, so it is important that the supervisor first identify an alternative supervisor who is likely able to provide high quality supervision given the particular situation. The supervisor could initiate the conversation by stating that there appears to be a strain in the supervisory relationship that is not anyone’s fault, but that might impair the supervisory outcomes. The supervisor can identify positive characteristics of the supervisee and express his or her desire to ensure that the supervisee has access to the best supervision possible via an alternative supervisor.

Persistent Professionalism and Interpersonal Problems

Several general categories of problems related to interpersonal and professional repertoires can arise during training as a professional behavior analyst (Bailey & Burch, 2011 ). The categories described herein are meant to be common illustrative examples rather than an exhaustive list. Supervisors should consistently monitor for development of concerns in these categories to address issues early in their development. A supervisor can evaluate the development of possible professionalism concerns by assessing the frequency of observable occurrence (e.g., hearing rude comments) and the degree to which there are observed effects on others (e.g., the supervisee is generally not invited to social outings with peers). Once an issue is detected, it is the supervisor’s responsibility to identify the barriers to the desired performance and develop an action plan addressing the area(s) of need. Readers are referred to the Performance Diagnostic Checklist—Human Services (PDC-HS) for a model of a function-based evaluation process that may prove useful for some performance issues (Carr et al., 2013 ; Ditzian, Wilder, Kind, & Tanz, 2015 ). For example, the PDC-HS assesses for barriers to optimal performance associated with issues related to training, the clarity of tasks and appropriate prompts, and available resources, materials, and processes. Other barriers assessed include those related to consequences for engaging in the response, the effort required to engage in the response, and the possible competing contingencies. The PDC-HS includes a guide to intervention planning with relevant references and resources. The subsequent action plan for a supervisee might include modeling the desired skill, increasing the opportunity for the supervisee to practice the skill to mastery, breaking the skill into smaller component parts, creating supports or job aids to facilitate performing the skill correctly, or referring the individual to additional resources.

Disorganization and Poor Time Management

One common issue that may impact a supervisee’s performance is disorganization of poor time management. For example, the supervisee may fail to complete tasks, require more time than typical to complete tasks, arrive late for meetings and appointments, or have difficulty locating materials. The supervisor can readily detect issues related to organizational and time management skills by tracking the supervisee’s performance related to meeting deadlines, attending meetings, and carrying out tasks that require planning and organization. It is important to consider if the organizational issues are an overarching problem that is evident in all areas of performance (e.g., study behavior and personal life are also chaotic), or if the organizational and time management problems are primarily evident in applied practice tasks. If the problems are generally constrained to or worsened in applied practice tasks, the difficulty may be related to an inability to effectively prioritize or to fluently engage in new specific required skills (e.g., translating procedural descriptions from the literature into a useful program for everyday implementation).

If the problems are global, the supervisor might provide resources for general effective organization and time management strategies, as well as implement some targeted interventions (e.g., using appointments and lists in electronic calendars, self monitoring of management of deadlines, color coding systems). The supervisor might suggest that the supervisee read books focusing on developing effective organizational and time management skills (Allen, 2015 ; Bailey & Burch, 2010 ; Covey, 2004 ). For those who prefer online resources, consider asking the supervisee to review the five steps for setting and meeting goals by Daniels ( 2013a , b ), the productivity tips and infographics included in the online article by Ganesh ( 2015 ), or to identify and try out one of the many available organization/time-management apps.

However, if the supervisor determines that the barriers are related to the supervisee’s inability to effectively prioritize or fluently engage in specific skills, the action plan will be more targeted. The supervisee may not have sufficient experience with the full range of tasks to effectively determine which tasks should be assigned high priority. In this case, the supervisor may elect to prioritize the tasks for the supervisee and describe the strategy that he or she used to establish the priorities. The supervisor could describe the steps necessary to complete the task and the likely negative outcomes related to completing the task at different latencies (e.g., immediately, within 48 h, within a week), until the supervisee can engage in this skill independently. In some cases, the barrier may be related to the supervisee not being fluent enough with the required skills to complete tasks in the required timeframe. In such case, the supervisor may break the task into discrete skills and assign a specific amount of time to complete each step. Over time, the allotted duration can be shortened, or single tasks can be combined, as the skills become more fluent. In addition to the ones described above, many different organizational and time management issues may become evident. In each instance, the role of the supervisor is to detect the issue quickly, conduct an assessment of the scope of the problem and contributing causes, and to develop a targeted plan to address discrete skills, increase motivation, and provide resources.

Interpersonal Skills

Another common problem detected in supervision is lack of interpersonal skills that are critical to the success of the supervisory relationship and ongoing professional success (Bailey & Burch, 2011 ). Interpersonal skills include specific communication skills such as active listening, effective writing skills and effective speaking and non-vocal communicative behavior (e.g., facial expressions and body posture). Supervisees may avoid eye contact, exhibit flat affect (e.g., lack of vocal inflection, limited range of facial expressions), or speak too little to be an effective social communicative partner. Another sub-set of interpersonal skills includes professional relationship-building skills like cooperation, negotiation, and conflict resolution (Bedwell, Fiore, & Salas, 2014 ; Klein, DeRouin, & Salas, 2006 ). Some common behaviors that produce an impression of unprofessional behavior include speaking too casually in professional interactions, seeming combative in discussions, avoiding conflict, or being unwilling to compromise when it is appropriate to do so.

Whatever the deficit area, a functional assessment approach should be used to define the problem, identify likely causes and barriers, and develop recommendations to address the problem. Bedwell et al. ( 2014 ) provide a nice summary of available questionnaires and behavior observation scales that might help newer supervisors identify a range of interpersonal skills deficits. Next, the supervisor should conduct an analysis of the situation constraints and likely causes of the skill deficits. Determine if the problems are evident in all situations or more evident in certain contexts (e.g., more with clients than with peers). Some problems may occur due to problems attending to and discriminating subtle social cues that would otherwise shape more effective social behavior. Other problems may occur due to negative reinforcement rather than a discrimination problem.

Many interpersonal problems are primarily due to a lack of discrimination of subtle contextual cues. The individual may have had a history of family members, friends, and other supervisors who modeled these or similar behaviors or who accidentally shaped inappropriate social behavior. That is, a supervisor may have modeled using humor to diffuse tense interpersonal situations but the supervisee’s subsequent attempts to imitate the humor were less skillful and were perceived as overly sarcastic. It may also be that the individual cannot discriminate when he or she engages in the behavior leading to a lack of audience control. For example, a supervisee might not realize that he or she is making facial expressions of disapproval or disbelief during a supervisory or client meeting. In this example, the supervisor may have to explicitly describe the behavior and employ strategies to facilitate the supervisee’s awareness of engaging in the behavior (e.g., watch video recordings, develop a subtle cue that the supervisor can give to indicate that it is occurring).

The supervisee may have a history of contingencies that have directly shaped their poor interpersonal behavior. For example, avoiding eye contact and remaining quiet may have allowed the supervisee to avoid prior social interactions that were anxiety provoking. The supervisee may have contacted punishment for bringing up difficult situations in the past leading to current anticipatory anxiety and avoidance. The supervisor may need to help the supervisee learn to identify situations that he or she is likely to avoid, creating a hierarchy of aversive topics or situations (Friman, Hayes, & Wilson, 1998 ). The supervisee might also need to learn to tact the features of those situations, identify any covert vocal behavior (e.g., negative self talk) or somatic responses (e.g., upset stomach, headache, shortness of breath), and develop alternative/incompatible responses that increase the likelihood of successfully addressing the issue. The supervisor could role-play with the supervisee, using multiple exemplars, until the new, incompatible responses are fluent. Most importantly, the supervisor should differentially reinforce any instances in which the supervisee brings a potentially emerging problem to the supervisor’s attention (e.g., “Thank you so much for noticing and telling me that this parent seems reluctant to implement the program. That is going to allow us to come up with a strong rationale for the current program or to develop an alternative intervention program that is more acceptable to the parent.”).

One of the most common interpersonal problems for young aspiring behavior analysts is lack of appropriate assertiveness skills. For example, the supervisee might participate in his or her first multi-disciplinary Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) meeting and respond negatively to another IEP team member’s suggestions or be overly assertive about behavior analytic suggestions. The supervisee may never have been in a situation in which they needed to accrue social value by reinforcing the behavior of team members who are strangers before respectfully offering other solutions to a joint problem. Another common interpersonal pattern occurs when a supervisee becomes overly assertive or emotional after a series of prior avoidance responses. For example, the individual may say “yes” to inappropriate requests of a peer (e.g., “will you proofread my paper the night before it is due”) or client (e.g., “I want to rearrange my appointment with you again”) perceiving that he or she is “thinking of the other person’s feelings” or being accommodating. If the inappropriate requests that have been reinforced continue to occur, the individual may suddenly respond very differently by becoming upset and overly assertive (e.g., “stop taking advantage of me,” “we are going to terminate your services because you are not fully committed to therapy”). Often the initial responses are reinforced because the supervisee does not have a history of calmly addressing situations directly and immediately (e.g., “I am sorry I can’t help you tonight, but I already have other plans. Give me a little more notice next time and I will gladly proof your paper.”).

Difficult conversations with clients and their families may prove to be the most difficult of all resulting in significant avoidance unless this repertoire is directly taught in a supportive, mentored environment. Most aspiring behavior analysts who are relatively young will have a long history with agreeing with their own parents and almost no history with calmly and kindly disagreeing due to potential long-term negative outcome (e.g., “I know you want the best outcome for your child and I am concerned that the frequent shift and cancellation of appointments might limit how far your child can progress in services”). Similar issues can arise when a new behavior analyst has to provide corrective feedback to their own supervisees or address a sensitive issue of professionalism. Without explicit instruction and practice, the new supervisor may avoid feedback on issues that feel awkward but are important to the professional context (e.g., “please wear clothing that has a higher neckline or waistline so that you don’t inadvertently show an inappropriate amount of your body in the workplace”). Practicing behavior analysts will likely be required to have a variety of difficult conversations with staff or clients. The skills to successfully navigate these conversations are subtle and unlikely to exist prior to modeling, rehearsal and feedback with a supervisor. If a supervisor fails to teach these appropriate assertiveness skills, the supervisee could proceed down a path of poor client relationships and poor supervisory relationships in their career as a behavior analyst. In addition to live behavior skills training (BST), supervisors might also refer supervisees to excellent print resources (Carnegie, 1981 ; Patterson, Grenny, McMillan, & Switzler, 2011 ), and assign specific sections to address relevant areas of concern.

Difficulty Accepting and Applying Feedback

Difficulty accepting feedback is a common issue that arises during many supervisory relationships. In terms of the supervisee’s behavior, this may take the form of arguing with the supervisor, demanding very specific examples of the behavior of concern, defending or explaining, or crying and other emotional responses. While there are many reasons that a supervisee may react emotionally or unprofessionally to receiving feedback (e.g., having a bad day, the mode of feedback delivery), if it is a recurring issue that persists despite reasonable adjustments, it is likely that the behavior is maintained by access to either social positive reinforcement (e.g., in the form of arguing back, providing explanations, consoling the individual), or social negative reinforcement (e.g., the issue is dropped or put on hold), or a combination of both. Most available resources focus on how to deliver effective feedback (Daniels, 2013a , b , 2015 ; Parsons et al., 2012 ; Reid et al., 2012 ), and this section assumes that supervisors have assessed his/her own behavior in their regard and made the necessary changes to ensure that he is employing best practices in delivering feedback. However, Hulse and Robert ( 2014 ) suggest having critical conversations to pre-plan for feedback, such that supervisees are more likely to accept feedback. The authors recommend some specific activities that can be completed using the Corrective Feedback Instrument-Revised (CFI-R) to gather relevant information (Hulse & Robert, 2014 ; Hulse-Killacky, Orr, & Paradise, 2006 ). Whereas the authors suggest doing this at the outset of the relationship, it seems reasonable that it could be implemented once the supervisory experience has begun.

Sellers et al. ( 2016 ) provide a recommendation to explicitly discuss the expectations around accepting feedback. Bailey and Burch include a chapter that addresses strategies for effectively receiving feedback that a supervisor can assign to a supervisee (Bailey & Burch, 2010 ). It may be necessary for the supervisor to overtly define the behavior for the supervisor and point out examples of accepting feedback successfully as they arise in the context of the supervisory relationship. The supervisor should discuss the purpose of feedback, clearly outlining the negative ramifications of not accepting feedback in a professional manner. The supervisor might also facilitate the supervisee engaging in self-reflection, as this can be positively linked with increasing acceptance of corrective feedback and even creating action plans (Sargeant, Mann, van der Vleuten, & Metsemakers, 2009 ). The supervisor might ask questions to evoke self-reflection such as: “Have you ever received feedback like this from me or other previous supervisors?” The supervisor and supervisee might elect to develop a specific plan that includes alternative behavior for the supervisee to engage in, such as taking notes, paraphrasing back the feedback, or thanking the supervisor for the feedback. The pair could also practice these skills in a role-play context using fictitious scenarios that are less likely to evoke the typical emotional responses in the supervisee.

Consider a scenario wherein a supervisee has consistently responded to corrective feedback about incorrect implementation of targeted assessment procedures with defensive statements. The supervisor might clearly define the supervisee’s behavior of defensiveness as making statements that that direct the responsibility away from the supervisee and give some recent examples (e.g., “For example, when we discussed ensuring that the items in the preference assessment were in working order, you replied: ‘The line therapist left the toy on overnight and ran out the batteries.’”). The supervisor could then explain that the purpose of the feedback is to ensure that the client receives high-quality services and that the team use time in clinical services efficiently. The supervisee could be directed to paraphrase the corrective feedback to the supervisor to replace immediately engaging in defensive statements (e.g., “Ok, so what you are saying is that I should have checked the batteries before setting up the preference assessment.”). Finally, the supervisor could role-play using fictitious scenarios that have not historically been problematic for the supervisee. The supervisor might say: “I know that you are amazing at getting your reports turned in on time, or ahead of time. But, let us pretend that you were consistently late with reports and I need to give you some corrective feedback.” Using made up scenarios might reduce the presentation of stimuli that evoke the specific problem behavior associated with receiving feedback.

Supervisors should take measures to ensure that strategies are matched to the likely function of the supervisee’s behavior of concern. For example, if the behavior is maintained by the attention provided during the exchange, the supervisor should take care to deliver the feedback in a supportive, but direct manner, and inform the individual that questions and discussion will take place in the following meeting. Likewise, if the behavior is maintained by avoidance or escape from the unpleasant conversation, the supervisor should ensure that feedback is delivered before ending the meeting. If needed, the supervisor could acknowledge that the feedback may be difficult to hear and offer the supervisee a break to get a drink of water or use the restroom, before returning to complete providing the feedback.

A different, but related issue is when a supervisee consistently fails to respond to feedback by making the necessary changes to products or his/her behavior. This problem may occur in conjunction with difficulty receiving feedback or in spite of having accepted the feedback in a very professional manner during the meeting. The supervisor should first ensure that the feedback is high quality, prescriptive, and stated in a positive and supportive manner (DiGennaro Reed et al., 2013 ). If the feedback was effective, a possible cause for failed behavior change may be a lack of follow-up and performance checks in the desired skill. The supervisor ought to clearly outline the required steps for the supervisee, schedule or contrive specific performance checks, and provide timely ongoing feedback. For difficulties with accepting or implementing feedback, it may be necessary to link changes in receipt of feedback to systematic performance reviews.

The supervising behavior analyst should put forth every reasonable effort to detect, conduct a functional assessment, and repair or address issues that might arise during the supervisory relationship. Even persistent problems may be overcome with a systematic behavior-analytic approach, leading to positive outcomes for the supervisor and supervisee. However, if the supervisee’s professional and interpersonal issues remain unchanged and lead the supervisor to believe there is a risk of incompetence in the supervisee’s ongoing and future clinical practice, the supervisor might consider if it is appropriate to terminate the supervisory relationship in a professional manner. This option should never be taken lightly, should be a last resort, and should be in accordance with the conditions outlined in the supervision contract (a sample can be obtained on the BACB website). Recommendations for establishing the supervision contract at the beginning of the supervisory relationship are outlined in the Sellers et al. ( 2016 ) article.

Depending on the presenting problems, it is possible that a supervisor might take other actions, in addition to terminating the supervision contract (e.g., involving management or human resources, filing a “Notice of Alleged Violation” with the BACB); however, that is outside of the scope of this paper. To terminate the relationship, the supervisor should prepare a written document indicating why the relationship is being terminated, referring to the specific conditions within the contract. In a final meeting, the supervisor should review the document with the supervisee to answer any questions she might have.

Conclusions

Various problems may become evident throughout the course of supervision. The problems may be in the supervisory relationship itself or they may be related to the supervisee’s interpersonal skills or professional repertoires. These problems could limit the success of supervision and jeopardize ongoing professional activities if they are not detected and addressed swiftly by an attentive supervisor. The transition from the student role to the professional role can be a challenging one if the supervisor and graduate program have not actively focused on establishing critical skills for becoming a professional behavior analyst in addition to basic concepts, principles, and procedures (Bailey & Burch, 2010 ).

Taking a thoughtful and systematic approach to issues that may arise during the supervisory relationship has several important effects that are worth summarizing. First, addressing the issues directly increases the skills of the supervisee and their future chances of success. Second, the skills of the supervisor may improve through their efforts to examine the literature on supervision and engage in a systematic functional assessment and development of an action plan. This process is also modeled for the supervisee, increasing the likelihood that the supervisee will take a similar approach if he or she moves into a supervisory role in the future. Both the supervisor and supervisee may be less likely to avoid difficult or uncomfortable situations during supervision in the future if they have been successful at addressing issues. While this paper does not provide coverage of all problems that could arise during supervision, the examples provided here will hopefully provide sufficient guidance and resources to help supervisors detect and address commonly occurring problems.

Potential Study Guide for Journal Clubs

• List three different behavioral indicators that issues may be present in the supervisory relationship.
• List and describe the five steps to take in repairing a defective relationship due to problematic supervisor behavior.
• List common barriers to effective organizational and time management skills.
• List and describe three reasons that defective interpersonal skills might develop.
• What are two recommendations for addressing issues related to difficulty accepting feedback?

Compliance with Ethical Standards

No funding was received for this project.

Conflict of Interest

All three authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest related to this project.

Ethical Approval

This article does not contain any studies with human participants performed by any of the authors.

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17 Smart Answers to “What Challenges Have You Overcome?”

By Status.net Editorial Team on July 12, 2023 — 17 minutes to read

You’ve landed an interview for your dream job, and everything is going smoothly until you’re asked, “What challenges have you overcome?”. It’s a common question designed to gauge your resilience and adaptability. How do you craft a smart answer that showcases your strengths without sounding insincere or overconfident?

First, it’s essential to take a moment and reflect on your personal and professional journey. Think about the setbacks you’ve faced, obstacles you’ve navigated, and goals you’ve achieved despite the adversities.

Once you’ve identified a challenge that is both relevant and meaningful to your experience, you can frame your answer by discussing how you confronted the issue head-on and the steps you took to overcome it. Be sure to detail the lessons you learned and the growth you experienced as a result. This approach will not only demonstrate your resilience but also provide crucial insight into your character for potential employers.

Types of Personal Challenges to Overcome

Life obstacles.

Everyone faces ups and downs in life, and overcoming these challenges can prove your resilience. For example, you may have moved to a new city or country, adapting to the culture and language. Share your story of how you navigated through this situation and gained confidence and skills along the way. This will showcase your ability to adapt and persevere in unfamiliar situations.

Example answer:

“When I moved to a new city for college, I was completely out of my comfort zone. I had to adapt to a new culture, make new friends, and navigate a new environment. It was challenging at first, but I pushed myself to get involved in campus activities and meet new people. Through this experience, I gained confidence in myself and my ability to adapt to unfamiliar situations.”

Health Issues

Health issues can be a significant challenge to overcome. If you’ve experienced physical or mental health struggles, share how you managed these challenges and any adjustments you made to continue living a productive and fulfilling life. This will show your determination and ability to stay focused on your goals despite the difficulties. Make sure to emphasize the lessons learned and the personal growth that resulted from facing these challenges.

“I struggled with anxiety and depression for a few years, which made it difficult to focus on my goals and stay motivated. But I sought help from a therapist and learned coping mechanisms to manage my symptoms. I also made lifestyle changes, such as exercising regularly and practicing mindfulness, to improve my mental health. Through this experience, I learned the importance of self-care and developed a greater appreciation for my own resilience.”

Financial Difficulties

Many people have faced financial challenges at some point in their lives. If you’ve encountered financial difficulties, explain how you tackled them (e.g., by budgeting, cutting expenses, or taking a second job). Highlight the resourcefulness and dedication you demonstrated in this situation, focusing on the positive outcomes and the skills you gained.

“After college, I struggled to find a job in my field and had to take on multiple part-time jobs to make ends meet. It was a challenging time, but I learned how to budget effectively and prioritize my expenses. I also developed new skills, such as customer service and time management, through my various jobs. This experience taught me the value of hard work and resourcefulness.”

Career Setbacks

Career setbacks can be a significant challenge for anyone. If you’ve experienced a job loss, been passed over for a promotion, or had to change careers unexpectedly, share how you coped with the situation and what steps you took to get back on track. Emphasize the skills and qualities you developed during this time, such as resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving.

“I was passed over for a promotion at my previous job, which was disappointing at first. But I used the experience as an opportunity to reflect on my strengths and weaknesses and set new career goals. I took on additional responsibilities and sought out professional development opportunities to improve my skills. Through this experience, I learned the importance of perseverance and self-improvement.”

Relationship Struggles

Relationship struggles can be emotionally challenging and can impact other areas of your life. If you’ve gone through a divorce, break-up, or any other significant relationship difficulty, share how you navigated through the situation and what you learned from it. Focus on the personal growth and self-discovery that resulted from the experience.

“When I went through a difficult breakup a few years ago, I struggled to cope with the emotional pain. But I sought support from friends and family and focused on self-care, such as exercise and meditation. I also used the experience as an opportunity to reflect on my own values and priorities in relationships. Through this experience, I learned the importance of self-love and emotional resilience.”

Academic Challenges

Academic challenges can be a significant obstacle for students. If you’ve struggled with a particular subject or faced academic setbacks, share how you overcame these challenges and what strategies you used to improve your performance. Highlight the perseverance and dedication you demonstrated during this time, as well as the skills and knowledge you gained.

“I struggled with math in high school and had to work hard to improve my grades. I sought out extra help from my teachers and peers, and developed study strategies that worked for me. Through this experience, I learned the value of perseverance and the importance of seeking help when needed.”

Personal Loss

Personal loss, such as the death of a loved one, can be a difficult challenge to overcome. If you’ve experienced a significant loss, share how you coped with the situation and what helped you through the grieving process. Focus on the personal growth and resilience you developed as a result of the experience.

“When my grandfather passed away, it was a difficult time for my family. But we came together to support each other and cherish his memory. I also sought out grief counseling to help me process my emotions and cope with the loss. Through this experience, I learned the importance of vulnerability and emotional resilience, and how to support others who are going through difficult times.”

Types of Professional Challenges to Overcome

Dealing with difficult clients.

Handling difficult clients can be emotionally taxing and require creative solutions.

• “In my previous role as a project manager, I had to deal with a particularly difficult client who was constantly changing their requirements. This made it challenging to keep the project on track and deliver the expected results. The client was also very demanding and had high expectations, which added to the pressure. To handle this situation, I took a proactive approach and made sure to maintain open communication with the client. I listened closely to their concerns and validated their feelings, which helped me build rapport and establish trust. By reminding them of the initial goals and agreements, I was able to keep the project focused and on track. I also provided regular progress updates to manage expectations and keep everyone informed of the project’s status. When the client changed their requirements, I made sure to communicate the impact of those changes and work with them to find solutions that would still meet their needs. I tried to be flexible and creative in finding ways to accommodate their requests while still delivering quality work. I also made sure to document all changes and agreements to avoid any misunderstandings or miscommunications. Through this approach, I was able to successfully navigate the situation and deliver a positive outcome for all parties involved. The client was satisfied with the final product, and we were able to build a strong working relationship that lasted beyond that project. I learned the importance of communication, empathy, and flexibility in dealing with difficult clients and managing complex projects.”

Leading Teams

As a team leader, it’s your responsibility to create a nurturing environment that fosters collaboration and success.

• “As a team leader, I faced the challenge of managing a group of people with different personalities and skill sets. One particular challenge was when we had to work on a project with a tight deadline and a lot of moving parts. Some team members were more experienced than others, and some were more vocal than others. It was difficult to keep everyone on the same page and ensure that we were all working towards the same goal. To overcome this challenge, I made sure to establish clear expectations and goals right from the start. I held a team meeting where we discussed the project requirements and everyone’s roles and responsibilities. I encouraged open communication and actively listened to each team member’s ideas and suggestions, making sure to integrate them into decision-making processes. We also set up a group chat where we could quickly check in with each other and share updates. Regular check-ins allowed me to evaluate progress and address potential issues, while also providing emotional support and constructive criticism to drive personal and professional growth. I made sure to acknowledge everyone’s contributions and provide feedback on areas where they could improve. When conflicts arose, I facilitated resolutions with a neutral and solutions-oriented approach, focusing on finding ways to move forward rather than assigning blame. I believe that this approach helped build a strong team and improve performance. Despite the tight deadline and complex nature of the project, we were able to deliver high-quality work on time and within budget.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How to answer “how did you tackle a difficult project or assignment”.

To answer this question, think about a specific project or assignment you faced that was challenging. Reflect on the approaches and strategies you used to overcome those challenges. For example, you might have broken the task into smaller, manageable steps, sought advice from experts, or used innovative problem-solving techniques. Be sure to highlight your resourcefulness and adaptability in the face of difficulty.

• “One difficult project I faced was when I was tasked with developing a marketing campaign for a new product launch. The challenge was that the product was in a highly competitive market, and we had limited resources and a tight deadline. To tackle this project, I first conducted extensive research on the market and our target audience to identify unique selling points and potential marketing channels. Next, I broke down the project into smaller, manageable tasks and created a detailed project plan with clear deadlines and milestones. I also sought input from colleagues with expertise in different areas, such as graphic design and social media marketing, to ensure we were leveraging everyone’s strengths and producing a cohesive campaign. To stay on track and motivated, I implemented daily check-ins with the team to review progress and identify any roadblocks. When we encountered obstacles, I used innovative problem-solving techniques, such as brainstorming sessions and mind mapping, to generate new ideas and solutions. In the end, our hard work and strategic approach paid off, as the campaign was successful in generating buzz and driving sales. This experience taught me the importance of being resourceful and adaptable in the face of challenges, and I’m confident that these skills will serve me well in future projects.”

How to Answer “Describe a time when you overcame a setback in your career or education.”

This question allows you to demonstrate your resilience and ability to bounce back from setbacks. Consider a situation where you failed or faced a major obstacle, and discuss how you responded. Emphasize the lessons you learned from the experience, the steps you took to recover, and how you applied those learnings to future situations to ensure success.

• “I faced a major setback early on in my career when a project I was leading fell behind schedule due to unforeseen technical issues. Despite my best efforts, the project was delayed by several weeks, which caused a lot of frustration and disappointment among the team and stakeholders. However, rather than dwelling on the setback, I immediately took action to get the project back on track. I held a meeting with the team to identify the root cause of the technical issues and brainstormed potential solutions. I also communicated transparently with stakeholders about the delay and set realistic expectations for when the project would be completed. Through this experience, I learned the importance of being proactive and transparent when facing setbacks. I also realized the value of collaboration and seeking input from others when problem-solving. We were able to complete the project successfully, and the lessons I learned from that experience have helped me navigate similar challenges in my career since then.”

“How did you handle a challenging situation with a colleague or team member?”

To address this question, recall an instance where you faced a difficult interaction or disagreement with a colleague or team member. Explain how you approached the situation, maintained open communication, and used effective listening and problem-solving skills to resolve the issue. Focus on your ability to collaborate and maintain a positive working relationship.

• “In my previous job, I had to work on a project with a team member who had a very different approach to problem-solving than I did. We had conflicting ideas on how to approach a particular task, which led to some tension between us. However, I knew it was important to maintain open communication and find a way to work together effectively. To address the situation, I scheduled a one-on-one meeting with my colleague to discuss our differences and find a common ground. During the meeting, I actively listened to their perspective and shared my own thoughts in a respectful manner. We were able to identify our shared goals for the project and brainstormed different solutions that incorporated both of our ideas. We ultimately came up with a plan that satisfied both of us and allowed us to move forward with the project. Throughout the rest of the project, I made sure to check in with my colleague regularly and provide feedback in a constructive manner. By the end of the project, we had developed a positive working relationship and were able to successfully deliver the project on time.”

“Can you share an instance where you had to juggle multiple responsibilities successfully?”

When responding to this question, think about a time in which you managed a high workload or competing priorities. Share your strategies for staying organized, prioritizing tasks, and maintaining focus and productivity. Explain how you maintained balance and kept deadlines, highlighting your excellent time-management skills.

• “One instance where I had to juggle multiple responsibilities successfully was during my time as a project manager for a software development team. I was responsible for overseeing the development of three different software products, each with their own unique requirements and timelines. To manage this workload, I first created a detailed project plan that laid out the milestones and deadlines for each product. I then prioritized tasks based on their importance and urgency, and made sure to communicate these priorities to my team members. To maintain focus and productivity, I broke down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable ones, and set specific deadlines for each. I also made sure to schedule regular check-ins with my team to ensure that everyone was on track and that any issues were addressed in a timely manner. To maintain balance and meet deadlines, I made sure to allocate time each day for each project, and also set aside time for self-care and relaxation. I was able to successfully manage all three software products and meet all of our deadlines.”

“What is an example of a significant obstacle you faced in a leadership role?”

This question is an opportunity to demonstrate your leadership abilities and tenacity. Reflect on a challenge you encountered while leading a team or project, and discuss the steps you took to overcome that obstacle. Describe how you supported your team, fostered collaboration, and inspired others to achieve the desired outcome.

• “In my previous role as a team leader at a software development company, I faced a significant obstacle when we were tasked with completing a complex project within a tight deadline. Our team was small and had limited experience with the specific technology required for the project. Additionally, we faced unexpected technical issues that slowed down our progress. To overcome this challenge, I took several steps. Firstly, I held a team meeting to discuss the issues we were facing and to encourage everyone to share their ideas and suggestions. We then worked together to identify the root causes of the problems and brainstormed potential solutions. I also provided additional training and resources to help the team members who were struggling with the technology. To keep everyone motivated, I regularly communicated our progress and recognized the team members who were making significant contributions. I also ensured that everyone had a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities, and that we were all working towards the same goal. Ultimately, we were able to complete the project on time and within budget. Through this experience, I learned the importance of effective communication, collaboration, and perseverance in leadership.”

“During my previous role as a project manager, I was assigned to lead a team tasked with developing a new product for our company. The project was complex and required extensive research and development. Initially, I felt overwhelmed by the task at hand, but I tackled the challenge by breaking the project down into smaller, more manageable tasks. I created a detailed project plan that outlined each step of the process, including timelines, milestones, and deliverables. I also assigned specific roles and responsibilities to each team member, which helped to ensure that everyone was on the same page and working towards the same goal. Throughout the project, I maintained open communication with my team and provided regular updates to our stakeholders. By taking a systematic approach and keeping everyone informed, we were able to successfully complete the project on time and within budget.”

How to Answer “How have you adapted to a major change in your work or personal life?”

Adaptability is a valuable trait, especially in dynamic work environments. To answer this question, think about a time when you experienced a significant change, such as a new job, a company merger, or a change in personal circumstances. Explain your thought process and strategies for adjusting to the change, emphasizing your ability to remain positive and maintain high performance levels despite uncertainty.

• “I’ve had to adapt to several major changes throughout my career, but one instance that stands out was when my previous company underwent a merger. It was a challenging time, as we were all unsure about how the merger would impact our roles and the company culture. To adjust to this change, I first made sure to stay informed about the merger process and what it would mean for the company and our team. I also reached out to colleagues and managers to discuss any concerns or questions we had. In addition, I focused on maintaining a positive attitude and staying flexible. I knew that there would be some uncertainty and changes to our day-to-day work, but I tried to view it as an opportunity to learn and grow. I also made sure to stay organized and prioritize my workload, so that I could continue to meet deadlines and deliver high-quality work despite the upheaval. Overall, I believe that my ability to adapt to change helped me to navigate the merger successfully and continue to thrive in my role. I’m confident that I can apply these same strategies in any future challenges or changes that come my way.”
• “A few years ago, I experienced a major change in my personal life when I had to relocate to a new city for my spouse’s job. It was a difficult decision to make, as I had to leave behind a job and a community that I loved. However, I knew that supporting my spouse was important, and I was determined to make the most of the move. To adapt to this change, I first researched the job market in the new city and connected with local professional networks to learn more about potential opportunities. I also took the time to explore the city and get to know the local culture, which helped me to feel more at home. In addition, I made sure to communicate openly with my spouse about my feelings and concerns. We worked together to find ways to support each other through the transition, such as scheduling regular date nights and making time for self-care. While it was a challenging time, I believe that my ability to adapt to this major change helped me to grow both personally and professionally. I learned the importance of staying positive and proactive in the face of uncertainty, and I developed new skills and connections that have benefited me in my current role.”
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Current For transfer students and adult learners going back to college. People who learn how to solve problems, address stiff challenges and knock down obstacles are in high demand across all industries. Perspective is how you approach a problem. Seeing things from various sides of a problem is a good way to get all there is out of the experience. Creative problem solving is a skill that will stay with you for the rest of your life. Everyone runs into obstacles along the way. If we get lost driving a car or riding a bike, we have several choices. We can stop and ask someone for directions. We can pull out a map and view the landscape from where we are. We can call ahead and ask for pointers to look for to help guide us in our attempt to get back on track. Each approach will help us in different ways. Understanding the obstacle and how to approach it takes patience. In other words, don't freak. Keeping a stable and balanced view of an obstacle is a must. I always hated taking tests. My palms would get sweaty, my head would spin and I would always focus on what if I failed. This was a personal demon that I faced throughout my formal education, but I survived. Here are fifteen tips on how to problem solve: Smile. The first thing you should do when faced with a difficult problem is to start with a positive outlook. Sometimes our first reaction is to fear uncertainty. That’s pretty natural. However, I’ve realized over the years it is the unknown that has given us, as individuals, the curiosity to try new things and aim for the stars. Don’t fear the problem itself. Look at it as an opportunity to learn something new and to test your ability and wit. That is not easy to do with deadlines and pressure, but keeping a positive outlook will go a long way toward making each issue a bit less daunting. I remember many courses where my classmates sat in class dumbfounded. We did not understand an important point during the lecture, yet nobody asked a single question. Why? A lot of it has to do with the fear of looking stupid. Most of the time I find people do have the same questions as I do, but for some reason are too afraid to ask them. Regardless, before you can solve a problem you must first understand it. If there’s something you don’t understand, ask as many questions as you need. Don't feel shy. You are not stupid. There are no stupid questions, only those you do not yet have an answer for. An old saying goes, “If the only tool you have is a hammer, everything becomes a nail.” The way you have done things in the past may not always work for all situations. A hammer may be good for prying nails out of wood and plunging them into wood, but you should not use a hammer to pickup leaves or to unscrew a rusty bolt. There are better tools for these things. In life, I find there are often many solutions to a given problem. Some are more effective than others. Some are more appropriate than others. When faced with a difficult problem, do not assume you know the answer from the start. Don't jump to conclusions. Stop for a second and take time to understand what the problem or question is truly about before applying a solution or answer. Be open to all possibilities. Do not presume everything is a nail. Sometimes the problem we are trying to solve isn’t the real problem at all. It could be a symptom and not the cause. In order to solve a problem, we may need to take the perspective of looking down on it. From a different vantage point, we may discover that the problem we have focused on is in fact part of a bigger problem – one which would require a completely different approach. Before attempting to put a solution in place, seek out the “real” problem. Once you understand the problem in its entirety and context, only then can you determine the best course of action. Take a minute or two to actually define the problem. In doing so, identify what the problem isn’t about first. Isolate what the problem is about. When you understand the problem thoroughly, you may already know what tools you need to apply or what solutions to avoid because they are not appropriate. Sometimes, when given a problem, we naturally assume it is something it really isn't and thereby implement the wrong solution. It is often more effective to ensure you understand the problem, its symptoms and causes before proceeding. Ask what, where, why, when, how and whom. Write the problem down, draw diagrams, create lists and plans, etc. Would you eat a whole pizza in one mouthful? Probably not. In a similar fashion, some problems are simply too big to chew all at once. A useful technique for solving complex problems is drilling-down into the detail and continuing until each piece becomes manageable. Once you have a set of manageable pieces, solve each individually. When a given problem is broken into bite-sized chunks, it is easier to see the patterns, symptoms, tools, and techniques to apply and the actions that need to take place. Simple problems don’t often require a plan of attack. Remember Spock in Star Trek? I am a Trekkie and watched the TV show back in 60's. It changed my perspective. Spock was the logical counterpoint to Kirk, who had the passion, spit and intellect to run the Enterprise. They worked as a team. Given a complex problem, or one which involves an extended time frame, having an actionable plan identifying what needs to be done is crucial. The plan is a good reminder for you of what and when things need to happen as well as a communication tool for all the people involved. Dependencies must be revealed. Creating a plan requires that you think through all the issues logically and identify all the relevant issues and constraints. This is like pattern recognition. I love doing this. Whenever you are faced with a problem, ask yourself whether this problem shares the same characteristics as something else you may have solved. Often, problems mask themselves within their context but the root issue is the same. If you find you have a problem which shares the same characteristics as something else, you may be able to leverage the solution you have applied to that other problem. I find this is most useful in conjunction with the previous tip. When a problem is broken down into its constituent parts, you’ll find some of these parts occur frequently in other places. Problem solving and making mistakes often go hand-in-hand. Sometimes in order to find the best solution to a given problem, we have to go through a hundred bad solutions first. Thomas Edison was a master of this process. For every invention he developed, he made a thousand tries at things that did not work. The most important thing here is to remember that mistakes are okay. Don’t get discouraged. Don’t get frustrated. Use the mistakes as stepping stones to get to the desired solution. If you have gone through a hundred options to no avail, you have found a hundred ways not to do something rather than one hundred failures. Emotions or stress can sometimes affect our thinking and judgment. Do not let these cloud your mind. In most cases, problems are best dealt with logically. Try adopting a rational mindset and let your mind govern your actions. In your mind, go through what the problem is and then identify the steps which are required to resolve the situation before taking action. If you find you are too emotionally charged, pause for a moment and let yourself calm down first. Step back from the challenge and maybe give it another day. This is like visualizing the solution. Remember those tracing games someone would give you when you were younger...like a maze for example? Problem solving is about getting from one state to another state. This is known as traversing the solution path. Sometimes getting from the start state to the end state is not as immediately obvious as seeing how the end state can come from the start state. In many ways, this is like navigating using a map – we can either trace a path from where we are to where we want to go or we can start from the destination and work backwards. In many cases, I find it is useful to focus on the end state and then work backwards. As I get to familiar territory, I can then relate the solution to the path. This was not one of my strengths; however, I forced myself to get notebooks and to take notes. With a computer today, I now do it with my keyboard and store my thoughts in documents. When a problem is open-ended and you’re working in uncharted space, be vigilant with your note taking and record your progress. Keep a diary. You may find months later an offhand note you made can be the breakthrough you are looking for. It may not be immediately obvious at the time, so record your progress and ensure you can trace back to the things you have tried and what the results were. As you progress, be mindful of the answers you have obtained and assumptions you have made. I tend to jump to conclusions too fast. Slow down. We all make assumptions to try and hasten our progress. Ensure they are logically consistent and “make sense.” Mistakes do happen, so check, recheck and then check again. You do not want to develop or depend on a solution made upon incorrect answers and assumptions. When you are satisfied with your solution, don’t forget to test it under various conditions, not just the most likely scenario. Only with rigorous testing can you be sure your solution meets the initial requirements. Problems and obstacles are not always solved on the first pass, or second or third pass. This is a lot like college transfer. It is a difficult challenge to address from my vantage point. Multiple iterations may be necessary in solving any problem. Testing solutions will often reveal gaps and issues not addressed through review and from various perspectives. You can step back and restart any steps previously mentioned. Solutions can evolve and improve. One of the key risks we have in problem solving is believing in a solution more than the facts reveal. There are judgments to be made based upon the information you have at hand or you can readily discover. We need to be honest with ourselves and ideas. It is okay to take a leap of faith. Not all solutions visualized can be expressed in facts and figures. There is value in judgment. Taking a solution too seriously or personally though may cause us to skip the rigor and testing. That too is a decision. When is enough testing enough? This is not a debate on beliefs. We are talking about stressing realism and well grounded analysis during the whole process of problem solving. Depending on the problem, the cost and the level of effort, we have to be true to the level warranted. This is not being pessimistic. Explore things with an honest process, and I believe most things will work out for you. Learning the skill and techniques of problem solving will last you a lifetime. Employers will pay a premium for people who have learned how to solve problems. Entrepreneurs and people following their passion have this in common. They tend to focus on overcoming their obstacles using techniques they have mastered through experience. College will help you test your problem solving skills and techniques. Colleges and Universities. Transfer can be proactive and reactive. See how your circumstances stack up against the common characteristics leading students to change institutions and their programs of study. A list of popular college majors and resources you can review such as related occupations, salary and the types of tasks, work environment and expected requirements. Match your interests and explore what majors that will motivate you to finish college. As a student continuing your college education, you will probably be asked one question more than any other: “What’s your major?” You might be embarrassed to not have an answer and a declared a major. Here is a short article on how to cope with be undecided. Review the top list of programs and majors safe from outsourcing in today's global economy. Don't rush into choosing a major just because everyone asks you "what is your major?" A major is not a life sentence. It is just a concentration that proves you can focus and apply yourself. The top ten majors are analyzed to show annual earnings. Majors like Biology, Business Management, Computer Science, Criminal Justice, English, History, Political Science and Psychology are ranked based upon average salary. Life is learning. Colleges and Universities are giving credit for life experiences that relate to courses they offer. Explore PLA (Prior Learning Assessment) and the growing acceptance of it. Think you have to take every course required by your college or university? Think again. If you have the knowledge, take an exam and skip the course. These examinations are well respected and supported by many institutions. Other and may be worth exploring. Quick Links Bipolar Disorder Therapy Center When To See a Therapist Types of Therapy Best Online Therapy Best Couples Therapy Managing Stress Sleep and Dreaming Understanding Emotions Self-Improvement Healthy Relationships Student Resources Personality Types Sweepstakes Guided Meditations Verywell Mind Insights 2024 Verywell Mind 25 Mental Health in the Classroom Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Crisis Support Problem-Solving Strategies and Obstacles JGI / Jamie Grill / Getty Images Application Improvement From deciding what to eat for dinner to considering whether it's the right time to buy a house, problem-solving is a large part of our daily lives. Learn some of the problem-solving strategies that exist and how to use them in real life, along with ways to overcome obstacles that are making it harder to resolve the issues you face. What Is Problem-Solving? In cognitive psychology , the term 'problem-solving' refers to the mental process that people go through to discover, analyze, and solve problems. A problem exists when there is a goal that we want to achieve but the process by which we will achieve it is not obvious to us. Put another way, there is something that we want to occur in our life, yet we are not immediately certain how to make it happen. Maybe you want a better relationship with your spouse or another family member but you're not sure how to improve it. Or you want to start a business but are unsure what steps to take. Problem-solving helps you figure out how to achieve these desires. The problem-solving process involves: Discovery of the problem Deciding to tackle the issue Seeking to understand the problem more fully Researching available options or solutions Taking action to resolve the issue Before problem-solving can occur, it is important to first understand the exact nature of the problem itself. If your understanding of the issue is faulty, your attempts to resolve it will also be incorrect or flawed. Problem-Solving Mental Processes Several mental processes are at work during problem-solving. Among them are: Perceptually recognizing the problem Representing the problem in memory Considering relevant information that applies to the problem Identifying different aspects of the problem Labeling and describing the problem Problem-Solving Strategies There are many ways to go about solving a problem. Some of these strategies might be used on their own, or you may decide to employ multiple approaches when working to figure out and fix a problem. An algorithm is a step-by-step procedure that, by following certain "rules" produces a solution. Algorithms are commonly used in mathematics to solve division or multiplication problems. But they can be used in other fields as well. In psychology, algorithms can be used to help identify individuals with a greater risk of mental health issues. For instance, research suggests that certain algorithms might help us recognize children with an elevated risk of suicide or self-harm. One benefit of algorithms is that they guarantee an accurate answer. However, they aren't always the best approach to problem-solving, in part because detecting patterns can be incredibly time-consuming. There are also concerns when machine learning is involved—also known as artificial intelligence (AI)—such as whether they can accurately predict human behaviors. Heuristics are shortcut strategies that people can use to solve a problem at hand. These "rule of thumb" approaches allow you to simplify complex problems, reducing the total number of possible solutions to a more manageable set. If you find yourself sitting in a traffic jam, for example, you may quickly consider other routes, taking one to get moving once again. When shopping for a new car, you might think back to a prior experience when negotiating got you a lower price, then employ the same tactics. While heuristics may be helpful when facing smaller issues, major decisions shouldn't necessarily be made using a shortcut approach. Heuristics also don't guarantee an effective solution, such as when trying to drive around a traffic jam only to find yourself on an equally crowded route. Trial and Error A trial-and-error approach to problem-solving involves trying a number of potential solutions to a particular issue, then ruling out those that do not work. If you're not sure whether to buy a shirt in blue or green, for instance, you may try on each before deciding which one to purchase. This can be a good strategy to use if you have a limited number of solutions available. But if there are many different choices available, narrowing down the possible options using another problem-solving technique can be helpful before attempting trial and error. In some cases, the solution to a problem can appear as a sudden insight. You are facing an issue in a relationship or your career when, out of nowhere, the solution appears in your mind and you know exactly what to do. Insight can occur when the problem in front of you is similar to an issue that you've dealt with in the past. Although, you may not recognize what is occurring since the underlying mental processes that lead to insight often happen outside of conscious awareness . Research indicates that insight is most likely to occur during times when you are alone—such as when going on a walk by yourself, when you're in the shower, or when lying in bed after waking up. How to Apply Problem-Solving Strategies in Real Life If you're facing a problem, you can implement one or more of these strategies to find a potential solution. Here's how to use them in real life: Create a flow chart . If you have time, you can take advantage of the algorithm approach to problem-solving by sitting down and making a flow chart of each potential solution, its consequences, and what happens next. Recall your past experiences . When a problem needs to be solved fairly quickly, heuristics may be a better approach. Think back to when you faced a similar issue, then use your knowledge and experience to choose the best option possible. Start trying potential solutions . If your options are limited, start trying them one by one to see which solution is best for achieving your desired goal. If a particular solution doesn't work, move on to the next. Take some time alone . Since insight is often achieved when you're alone, carve out time to be by yourself for a while. The answer to your problem may come to you, seemingly out of the blue, if you spend some time away from others. Obstacles to Problem-Solving Problem-solving is not a flawless process as there are a number of obstacles that can interfere with our ability to solve a problem quickly and efficiently. These obstacles include: Assumptions: When dealing with a problem, people can make assumptions about the constraints and obstacles that prevent certain solutions. Thus, they may not even try some potential options. Functional fixedness : This term refers to the tendency to view problems only in their customary manner. Functional fixedness prevents people from fully seeing all of the different options that might be available to find a solution. Irrelevant or misleading information: When trying to solve a problem, it's important to distinguish between information that is relevant to the issue and irrelevant data that can lead to faulty solutions. The more complex the problem, the easier it is to focus on misleading or irrelevant information. Mental set: A mental set is a tendency to only use solutions that have worked in the past rather than looking for alternative ideas. A mental set can work as a heuristic, making it a useful problem-solving tool. However, mental sets can also lead to inflexibility, making it more difficult to find effective solutions. How to Improve Your Problem-Solving Skills In the end, if your goal is to become a better problem-solver, it's helpful to remember that this is a process. Thus, if you want to improve your problem-solving skills, following these steps can help lead you to your solution: Recognize that a problem exists . If you are facing a problem, there are generally signs. For instance, if you have a mental illness , you may experience excessive fear or sadness, mood changes, and changes in sleeping or eating habits. Recognizing these signs can help you realize that an issue exists. Decide to solve the problem . Make a conscious decision to solve the issue at hand. Commit to yourself that you will go through the steps necessary to find a solution. Seek to fully understand the issue . Analyze the problem you face, looking at it from all sides. If your problem is relationship-related, for instance, ask yourself how the other person may be interpreting the issue. You might also consider how your actions might be contributing to the situation. Research potential options . Using the problem-solving strategies mentioned, research potential solutions. Make a list of options, then consider each one individually. What are some pros and cons of taking the available routes? What would you need to do to make them happen? Take action . Select the best solution possible and take action. Action is one of the steps required for change . So, go through the motions needed to resolve the issue. Try another option, if needed . If the solution you chose didn't work, don't give up. Either go through the problem-solving process again or simply try another option. You can find a way to solve your problems as long as you keep working toward this goal—even if the best solution is simply to let go because no other good solution exists. Sarathy V. Real world problem-solving .  Front Hum Neurosci . 2018;12:261. doi:10.3389/fnhum.2018.00261 Dunbar K. Problem solving . A Companion to Cognitive Science . 2017. doi:10.1002/9781405164535.ch20 Stewart SL, Celebre A, Hirdes JP, Poss JW. Risk of suicide and self-harm in kids: The development of an algorithm to identify high-risk individuals within the children's mental health system . Child Psychiat Human Develop . 2020;51:913-924. doi:10.1007/s10578-020-00968-9 Rosenbusch H, Soldner F, Evans AM, Zeelenberg M. Supervised machine learning methods in psychology: A practical introduction with annotated R code . Soc Personal Psychol Compass . 2021;15(2):e12579. doi:10.1111/spc3.12579 Mishra S. Decision-making under risk: Integrating perspectives from biology, economics, and psychology . Personal Soc Psychol Rev . 2014;18(3):280-307. doi:10.1177/1088868314530517 Csikszentmihalyi M, Sawyer K. Creative insight: The social dimension of a solitary moment . In: The Systems Model of Creativity . 2015:73-98. doi:10.1007/978-94-017-9085-7_7 Chrysikou EG, Motyka K, Nigro C, Yang SI, Thompson-Schill SL. Functional fixedness in creative thinking tasks depends on stimulus modality .  Psychol Aesthet Creat Arts . 2016;10(4):425‐435. doi:10.1037/aca0000050 Huang F, Tang S, Hu Z. Unconditional perseveration of the short-term mental set in chunk decomposition .  Front Psychol . 2018;9:2568. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2018.02568 National Alliance on Mental Illness. Warning signs and symptoms . Mayer RE. Thinking, problem solving, cognition, 2nd ed . Schooler JW, Ohlsson S, Brooks K. Thoughts beyond words: When language overshadows insight. J Experiment Psychol: General . 1993;122:166-183. doi:10.1037/0096-3445.2.166 By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book." How to Anticipate Problems and Better Overcome Obstacles The road to success will not always be smooth. In fact, it is often fraught with difficult situations and all sorts of potential problems. By learning how to anticipate problems and becoming a problem solver, you will be better prepared to overcome potential obstacles when they come your way. Five Great Ways to Prepare for Potential Problems Are the Following: You need to understand that obstacles are a part of the process. If you know that you will face potential challenges along the way, you won’t be flustered when they occur. If you embrace change, you are better prepared for new challenges. By doing what you love, difficult challenges that you face will not be as aggravating as you work toward the big picture. Understand the difference between the need to change and the desire to change. Some changes are mandatory, others are brought about by choice. Having a Plan B will safeguard your future. In Order to Overcome Obstacles, Learn How to Anticipate Problems—and Then Be OK With It Yes, that’s right—obstacles are inevitable, and once you learn that they’re part of the process, you won’t be flustered when they occur. I remember receiving advice prior to my wedding day. I was told to be prepared that something may go wrong and something probably will. You may think that this is horrible guidance, especially before your big day. In actuality, those words of wisdom are spot-on. I have even passed along these same words of wisdom to other brides over the years. In my case, my sister, who was my maid of honor, left her beautiful custom flower bouquet back at the hotel where we had been getting ready. Once at the church, there wasn’t time for her to go back for the flowers. Instead, she was able to find some artificial flowers and ribbon in the Sunday school room of the church. She was able to create a make-shift bouquet on the spot. It was actually very pretty and it remarkably even matched the colors of the other bridesmaid’s flowers. The wedding ceremony and reception went as planned and no one ever noticed the artificial bouquet. The Bigger the Event, the More Likely Issues Will Arise Similarly, if you are planning a social event or business gathering, be aware that something will likely go wrong. In fact, the bigger the event, the more likelihood for issues to arise. But if you’re able to seamlessly navigate through these problems, you’ll find that your leadership skills and project management abilities will grow. When you allow for the possibility of problems to occur, you ironically become better in your decision-making process and problem-solving skills. The practical benefit of this advice has become extremely obvious throughout 2020. No one could have prepared for Covid-19 and mobs in the street. Companies and leaders who treat themselves as victims and sit back and wait for the world to get back to “normal” are making a big mistake. Imagine if, instead of finding a way to proceed with my wedding, I got angry with my sister and called off the wedding entirely! When you learn to bounce back from problems that inevitably arise, you’ll learn that there are unlimited ways to do things the “right way.” If You Embrace Change, You Are Better Prepared for New Challenges When it comes to learning how to anticipate problems, we all need to think improvisational. Think about a time when something did not go as planned, but the solution ended up being a better choice. Perhaps you did not have a certain ingredient for a recipe, but your alternative option made that dish far more delicious. Potential issues won’t bother you when you learn they can sometimes cause us to see issues from different perspectives. Sometimes we are stuck in the tried and true, unable to envision any other alternatives. This can go for a recipe, an event, our jobs, our businesses, and even our personal lives. It is easy to stick with the same routine if all is well – and with work, if your income is comfortable. Believe me, I certainly adhere to the statement that, “If something ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” However, something that “ain’t broke,” doesn’t mean that it can’t change or evolve. According to the  Harvard Business Review , the psychological and physical symptoms of burned-out employees in the US results in an estimated $190 Billion per year in healthcare costs. If our jobs and/or businesses can offer challenges and change, the negative patterns that lead to burnout could be decreased. If you are in that burnout zone, or if you fear that it is time for a change of life path, how do you choose which path to take? The answer starts with, what makes you happy? By Doing What You Love, the Obstacles that You Face Will Not Be as Aggravating to the Process Marsha Sinetar, an author and organizational psychologist wrote the book “ Do What You Love, The Money Will Follow .” The title states it all. Too many people are creating an existence, not existing to create. Find your passion in life and it can lead you to a life of success. When you are working at something you love, all of your talent, focus, energy, and commitment shows through your work. Excitement is contagious. Others easily want to be a part of something that you show passion towards. According to Sinetar’s book, America’s working population does not enjoy their work. Even though her words were written over 30 years ago, it is still a likely truth. Sinetar is quoted as saying, “We are not born to struggle through life. We are meant to work in ways that suit us, drawing on our natural talents and abilities as a way to express ourselves and contribute to others. This work, when we find it and do it – even if it is just a hobby at first – is a key to our true happiness and self-expression.” If you are looking to make personal change, a good idea is to make a list of the top ideas that excite and interest you. Brainstorm on your own, or with like-minded individuals on how these interests can possibly generate income. If you are looking to make changes to your business, find transformations that bring about excitement. If you love it, your clientele will likely love it too. Understand the Difference Between the Need to Change and the Desire to Change. Some Changes Are Mandatory, Others Are Brought About by Choice As we find ourselves with new protocols thrust upon us, we may have to now accept new ways of life. Social distancing is a new problem that may or may not become the new normal. It’s like after 9/11 in 2001, some things were changed forever. In airports, we now always have to remove our shoes at security. You can also no longer meet your loved one at the gate. Most people don’t like change, especially changes that are thrust upon us without having a say in the matter. However, we usually all adapt and get used to the new way of doing things. If you learn how to anticipate problems, you an adapt much faster than others. Casinos in Las Vegas Are Adapting In Las Vegas, casinos are having to remodel gaming areas to distance patrons. According to the Nevada Gaming Control Board, once casinos open, they will have to limit a property’s occupancy to 50 percent of its limit. Monitoring of occupancy may include headcounts by security, the use of existing surveillance systems, as well as the utilization of a property’s slot accounting system to monitor the number of persons on the casino floor. At gaming tables, casinos will limit the number of gamblers and space them accordingly. Some slot areas will implement plexiglass partitions between the machines. Restaurants are Also Adapting Restaurants will also be modified or remodeled if necessary. Buffets are under much scrutiny and may possibly be a thing of the past.  Food Critic John Curtas told News-3 Las Vegas  that, “Buffets are dead.” Curtas’ opinion is that no one will want to share a serving spoon or deal with crowds. However, the world-famous Bacchanal buffet at Caesar’s Palace is the number one revenue-generating restaurant in North America. Therefore, the property is using its downtime to remodel the dining facility to meet safety protocols. The goal is to not have to cease operations in the future. Caesar’s has even gone so far as to hire an on-staff epidemiologist. At Wynn Las Vegas, the company has announced that it will eliminate the need for guests to touch serving utensils. Wynn staff will be posted at each food station to serve guests. In Vegas, the mode of operations will change, but the show will go on as they experiment with countless potential solutions. The Entertainment Industry, However, Hasn’t Adapted as Well The world’s largest producer of stage shows, Cirque du Soleil, has had to shutter over 40 shows around the globe. The company is flirting with bankruptcy. Cirque CEO Daniel Lamarre told “Fast Company” magazine , that after canceling shows in China and Italy, he then received a call from MGM entertainment in Las Vegas. All of the city’s attractions would be shut down. Cirque was facing the fact that for the first time in 35 years, the show would not go on. Since the shut-downs started, Cirque has had to lay off over 46 hundred employees. However, Lamarre is optimistic. He feels that shows will be open in a year’s time. Reuters news service has reported that all options are on the table as Cirque explores plans to restructure its debt and repair its balance sheets. In New York City, where Covid-19 hit the hardest, Broadway has had to close its curtains. The stages, once filled with music, talent, and energy, have come to an indefinite intermission. The question lies in what will the theatres, showrooms, and concert halls look like when the new opening night arrives? Hopefully, the lights and magic of live performances will not go dark. Returning to the analogy of my wedding that almost became a disaster, you could say the entertainment industry has canceled their wedding. The casinos and restaurants, however, have found a way to make a new bouquet. Having a “Plan B” Will Safeguard Your Future I was very involved in theatre in High School. When it came time to go to college, I wanted to major in theatre. However, I had to ask myself what kind of jobs would be available with a theatre degree? Perhaps, I could teach or get a job with a professional theatre company. I felt that my choices would be limited. So, I made the decision to major in broadcasting with an emphasis on production. Theatre became my minor. I figured that there may be a lot more job opportunities in the radio and television than live-theater. When I graduated from college, I started doing freelance film/tv production work. I also landed a weekend gig on the radio. Some weeks, I went from coordinating a music video or commercial and then transitioning to working as a radio jock on the weekends. Sometimes it meant reinventing myself on a daily basis. I also never gave up my love for acting and would participate in community theatre productions or take acting jobs when the opportunity arose. The “Plan B” actually helped me institute my “Plan A.” You can do the same. Preparing for Potential Problems Makes You Better Able to Overcome Obstacles Today, I treasure my acting and theatre training and experiences. As an Instructor with, “The Leader’s Institute ® I am regularly in front of large groups. My decades of business experience and ownership give me credibility when I speak. But my stage experience is what gave me the ease to address a big audience. In acting, you learn to improvise when necessary. When a fellow actor forgets their lines, sometimes you have to create dialogue to get the scene back on track. In business and in life, improvisation and the willingness to change-up what you think and do on the spot can be a great tool. So, don’t expect your journey to be perfect. Prepare in advance for potential problems. When you do, you will be better able to overcome these obstacles. Leadership Tips | View More Posts by Category: Amazing Builders | Build-A-Bike ® | Camaraderie Quest | Case Studies | Charade Murder Mystery | Combo Team Building | Creating a Team Culture | Daily Leadership Series | I'm In It to Win It | Leadership Tips | Rescue Bear ® | Team Building Tips | Team Escape Room | The Ace Race ® | Uncategorized | Worklife Meet the Team Customer Success Conferences Overcoming Learning Barriers: 6 Strategies to Help All Students Succeed Overcoming learning barriers to help students succeed is important as every student goes through a different learning experience. Here are 6 effective methods for overcoming learning barriers and helping teachers provide greater support to their students. 1. Draw Comparisons and Provide Context When students connect a topic, concept, or assignment in class to something relevant outside of school, this gives them context to the importance of learning. This method is an effective strategy to provide a foundation for lifelong learning, life skills , and overcoming common barriers in teaching. Before teaching a specific topic, look for relevant examples outside of school or home for students. A meaningful illustration might relate to a personal interest or situation, creating a powerful connection to the learning process. When a certain skill or task is difficult to understand, draw a parallel to a hobby or other kinds of tasks students do at home or with their peers. Students need to see themselves in the curriculum or understand how it impacts their lives In connecting everyday situations and experiences to teaching content, students will absorb knowledge easier as this reduces potential barriers to learning. 2. Use Encouraging Tones and Language Many students encounter an obstacle in school, whether due to an emotional barrier, a learning disability, a cultural barrier, or another learning challenge. It’s common for students to feel discouraged, and they communicate with “I can’t do this” or “I’m going to fail at this.” When teachers help students rephrase those statements to “I can do this” and “I will learn this,” it gives them a better frame of mind by using supportive language. It’s essential to provide feedback to students and acknowledge the reality of failure, but also the potential to learn from a setback and improve in the long term. Michael Jordan famously said, “I've missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I've lost almost 300 games. Twenty-six times, I've been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I've failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed." When students have the mindset that mistakes are opportunities for growth and improvement , they will see greater potential in every effort they make and more possibilities for learning. 3. Establish Confidence in Students When teachers believe in the potential of their students' learning, they have a solid platform to overcome some common learning barriers to online learning and challenges with specific learning disabilities. Help build that confidence by forming strong relationships with students so they see that their teacher cares about them and wants them to succeed. Students thrive with consistent reassurance and support from teachers, school administrators, and peers. When teachers prioritize students’ success, students strive to achieve more in the classroom. 4. Set Milestones for Assessment and Reflection The learning process requires continuous assessment to ensure that students are gaining the skills needed for academic success and fulfilling students' learning needs. Assessments are essential in determining what students learn well and understand. This process gives teachers a better overview of what students understand and what needs to be retaught. These assessments don’t have to be long or tedious but fun quizzes or exercises with students to gauge student understanding of the material and satisfaction. This process will not only remove learning barriers but create a better learning experience for students. 5. Offer Interactive Learning Opportunities Case studies, real-life examples, and life-changing events are great opportunities to expand learning for students and give them a realistic view of how building skills will contribute to their future success. It’s a meaningful way to establish a pathway to lifelong learning while instilling enthusiasm in students to apply what they learn to practical scenarios and personal challenges. When students face individual struggles, they will have helpful tools acquired from learning for problem-solving everyday situations. When students face hardship, a missed exam, or a specific hurdle on a subject, it’s important to offer alternative solutions, where available, to break down major learning barriers. Hence, they have a more straightforward path toward greater achievement. This practice enables kids to develop critical thinking skills when they need to find new solutions for problems they encounter in their lives and into adulthood. 6. Remove or Limit Distractions When course material is engaging and relevant, it’s easier to hold students’ interest. However, distractions can impact the quality of their learning—for example, by creating classroom norms and expectations for smartphone use in class, for limiting smartphone use in class, teachers can help students focus on the topic at hand. While reducing distractions won’t remove all barriers to learning, it’s a better way to encourage social skills when discussing topics in class. It’s also an opportunity to create more fun, interactive activities that increase interest in students so that they will have an easier time understanding in class. Guide Students Toward Finding Their Way Empowering students gives them the confidence to establish their goals and find their own way. Teachers can guide students by creating a supportive learning environment as strong role models so students can reach beyond potential barriers towards higher education and other pathways. By instilling a sense of direction, teachers can guide students to think about what they want to achieve and consider their future options. They can pose questions such as, “what type of experience does this remind you of?”, “Where have you seen this before?” and “what can you connect this with?” These questions help students draw connections between what they learn and practical life skills. Such questions provoke deeper reflection and thinking about how subjects in class can translate into long-term learning possibilities. There are many effective methods to help support students through complex topics and overcome obstacles in learning. It’s also essential to break down topics into more straightforward, easier modules to learn and absorb, which can be less overwhelming for students while creating a more consistent pace throughout the course. While overcoming learning barriers presents many challenges for teachers, students, and parents, students can find new, more effective ways to learn and plan for their future with the right tools, teacher supports, and creative ideas. If your school is interested in new ways to improve the learning experience for children, you may also be interested in automating tasks and streamlining processes so that your teachers have more time to teach. Education Advanced offers an extensive suite of tools that may be able to help. For example, three of our most popular and effective tools are: Cardonex, our master schedule software , helps schools save time on building master schedules. Many schools used to spend weeks using whiteboards to organize the right students, teachers, and classrooms into the correct order so that students could graduate on time and get their preferred classes. However, Cardonex can now be used to automate this task and deliver 90% of students' first-choice courses within a couple of days. Testhound, our test accommodation software , helps schools coordinate thousands of students across all state and local K-12 school assessments while taking into account dozens of accommodations (reading disabilities, physical disabilities, translations, etc.) for students. Evaluation is a solution for documenting every step of the staff evaluation process , including walk-throughs, self-evaluations, supporting evidence, reporting and performance analytics. Pathways is a graduation tracking tool that allows administrators and counselors to create, track, and analyze graduation pathways to ensure secondary students are on track to graduate. Staff Evaluation Software Document every step of the staff evaluation process, including walk-throughs, self-evaluations, supporting evidence, reporting and performance analytics. Get Started → More Great Content We know you'll love Unlocking Success: Top Formative Assessment Examples for Teachers Standardized Tests: The Benefits and Impacts of Implementing Standardized Tests The Vital Role of School Counselors: Primary Guides for Student Success Career Exploration for High School Students Stay in the know. Subscribe to our newsletter today! 394 IMAGES Barriers to problem solving and change Problem-Solving Strategies: Definition and 5 Techniques to Try 7 Steps to Improve Your Problem Solving Skills Effective Problem Solving in 5 Simple Steps by Synergogy 7 steps in problem solving Explain the barriers to problem solving VIDEO 5 STRATEGIES TO IMPROVE YOUR PROBLEM SOLVING SKILLS What is the proper way to study Mathematics? Master Problem Solving Skills: Easy Tips & Examples! Top 5 Tips For Effective Answer Writing In Mains Exam🚀 #shorts Problem on Age #AptitudeProblems #CompetitiveExams #ProblemSolving #StudyTips #exampreparation Barriers to change and how to overcome them. Why do we resist change? COMMENTS 6 Common Problem Solving Barriers and How Can Managers Beat them Fear of failure. One of the most common barriers to problem solving is fear of failure. Fear can prevent us from taking risks and trying new things, preventing us from achieving our goals. Overcoming this fear is vital to success. Several ways to reduce or eliminate fear include practice, visualization, and positive self-talk. Strategic Pathways to Goal Success: Purpose, Progress, and Overcoming By honing your problem-solving skills, you can tackle obstacles head-on and find innovative solutions. Remember, in the face of challenges, resilience and problem-solving are your greatest allies on the path to goal achievement. Harnessing the Benefits of Connecting Goals to a Why 10 Problem-solving strategies to turn challenges on their head One of the best ways to improve your problem-solving skills is to learn from experts. Consider enrolling in organizational training, shadowing a mentor, or working with a coach. 2. Practice. Practice using your new problem-solving skills by applying them to smaller problems you might encounter in your daily life. 17 Smart Problem-Solving Strategies: Master Complex Problems 17 Effective Problem-Solving Strategies. Effective problem-solving strategies include breaking the problem into smaller parts, brainstorming multiple solutions, evaluating the pros and cons of each, and choosing the most viable option. Critical thinking and creativity are essential in developing innovative solutions. To Solve a Tough Problem, Reframe It Phase 4: Elevate. This phase involves exploring how the problem connects to broader organizational issues. It's like zooming out on a map to understand where a city lies in relation to the whole ... What is Problem Solving? (Steps, Techniques, Examples) The problem-solving process typically includes the following steps: Identify the issue: Recognize the problem that needs to be solved. Analyze the situation: Examine the issue in depth, gather all relevant information, and consider any limitations or constraints that may be present. Generate potential solutions: Brainstorm a list of possible ... The Six Main Barriers Against Problem-Solving And How To ... 4. Lack of respect for rhythms. There is always a right time for preparation, a right time for action and a right time for patience. Respecting the rhythms of a problem is directly link to the ... 14 Effective Problem-Solving Strategies 14 types of problem-solving strategies. Here are some examples of problem-solving strategies you can practice using to see which works best for you in different situations: 1. Define the problem. Taking the time to define a potential challenge can help you identify certain elements to create a plan to resolve them. Definitive Guide to Problem Solving Techniques Balance divergent and convergent thinking. Ask problems as questions. Defer or suspend judgement. Focus on "Yes, and…" rather than "No, but…". According to Carella, "Creative problem solving is the mental process used for generating innovative and imaginative ideas as a solution to a problem or a challenge. The Most Common Barriers to Learning Emotional barriers. Fears, motivation, and other emotions preventing a student from having the confidence to fully immerse themselves in a new learning environment. Environmental barriers. Physical elements, such as workplace distractions, impacting the student's ability to succeed within their learning environment. Problem-Solving Mastery: Your Roadmap to Effective Solutions Apply problem-solving techniques: Utilize the problem-solving process and relevant strategies to address issues encountered in various aspects of life. 3. Learn from experiences: Reflect on your problem-solving approach in real-life situations, identify areas of improvement, and adjust your strategies accordingly. Understanding the Importance of Proactive Problem-Solving Finally, one of the most important strategies for proactive problem-solving is cultivating a problem-solving mindset. This mindset involves approaching problems with a positive attitude and a structured problem-solving approach. It involves being open-minded and embracing the challenge, rather than being overwhelmed by the problem. Overcoming Obstacles: Breaking through Barriers Key Takeaways. Effective methods can be employed to overcome any obstacle.; Developing a positive and growth mindset is key to breaking through barriers.; Building resilience can help you maintain motivation during trying times.; Setting clear goals can provide direction and purpose to overcome obstacles.; Effective time management is essential for maximizing productivity and prioritizing tasks. 11 Common Barriers to Teamwork and How You Can Overcome Them Here are 11 of the most common impediments to teamwork that groups of professionals face, including strategies for overcoming them: 1. Ineffective leadership. For teams to work together effectively, they need leaders who can guide them, offer their insight and encourage collaboration on a consistent basis. Therefore, ineffective leadership can ... Recommendations for Detecting and Addressing Barriers to Successful Whatever the deficit area, a functional assessment approach should be used to define the problem, identify likely causes and barriers, and develop recommendations to address the problem. Bedwell et al. ( 2014 ) provide a nice summary of available questionnaires and behavior observation scales that might help newer supervisors identify a range ... 17 Smart Answers to "What Challenges Have You Overcome?" Regular check-ins allowed me to evaluate progress and address potential issues, while also providing emotional support and constructive criticism to drive personal and professional growth. ... Explain how you approached the situation, maintained open communication, and used effective listening and problem-solving skills to resolve the issue ... 10 BARRIERS TO PROBLEM SOLVING 1. Lack of Clarity in Problem Definition. One of the primary barriers to effective problem-solving is a lack of clarity in problem definition. Without a clear understanding of the problem at hand, it becomes challenging to devise appropriate solutions. To overcome this barrier, it is crucial to take the time to define the problem accurately. 15 Problem Solving Skills For Overcoming Obstacles Once you have a set of manageable pieces, solve each individually. When a given problem is broken into bite-sized chunks, it is easier to see the patterns, symptoms, tools, and techniques to apply and the actions that need to take place. 7. Think logically. Simple problems don't often require a plan of attack. Problem-Solving Strategies and Obstacles Problem-solving is a vital skill for coping with various challenges in life. This webpage explains the different strategies and obstacles that can affect how you solve problems, and offers tips on how to improve your problem-solving skills. Learn how to identify, analyze, and overcome problems with Verywell Mind. How to Anticipate Problems and Better Overcome Obstacles In business and in life, improvisation and the willingness to change-up what you think and do on the spot can be a great tool. So, don't expect your journey to be perfect. Prepare in advance for potential problems. When you do, you will be better able to overcome these obstacles. author Candace Cox. Overcoming Learning Barriers: 6 Strategies to Help All Students Succeed Here are 6 effective methods for overcoming learning barriers and helping teachers provide greater support to their students. 1. Draw Comparisons and Provide Context. When students connect a topic, concept, or assignment in class to something relevant outside of school, this gives them context to the importance of learning. Problem-solving skills and how to improve them (with examples) Example 1: Project manager with a proven track record of solving complex operational challenges. Skilled in identifying root causes, developing innovative solutions and leading teams to successful project completion. Example 2: Detail-oriented data analyst with strong problem solving skills. assignment essay homework paper phd report resume review thesis