Title: A Beginner's Guide for Becoming a Better Problem Solver
Headings: A Beginner’s Guide for Becoming a Better Problem Solver
A Beginner’s Guide for Becoming a Better Problem Solver
Three Methods of Thinking
Indispensable Problem Solver Attributes
A Problem Solver’s Attitude
A Problem Solver’s Beliefs
A Problem Solver’s Habits
Deep Probing
Associating with the Past
Recognizing Patterns
A Problem Solver’s Characteristics
Risk Taker
Persistent
Enthusiastic
Meticulous
Adaptable and Flexible
Open Minded
Lighthearted
Proactive
Curious
Non-Conforming
The Primary Problem Solving Method
The Preparation Phase
Identify the Problem
Define Problem in Writing
Question the Problem
Determine Possible Causes
Reframe the Problem
Define Desired Outcomes
The Generation Phase
Recall Past Learning, Experiences and Mistakes
Explore Strategies and Solutions
The Incubation Phase
Indulge in Brainstorming Naps
Sleep on Problem
Change Your Environment to Improve Incubation
Evolution Phase
Prioritize and Evaluate Solutions
Speculate Potential Future Outcomes and Negative Consequences
Settle on Solutions
Implementation Phase
Clarify Your Personal Vision of Outcome on Paper
Clarify the Personal Resources at Your Disposal
Create Three Alternative Plans of Action
Set Clear Defined Deadlines for these Actions
Take Action Committing Yourself to the Result
The Learning Phase
Monitor Your Outcomes
Reflect on the Problem Solving Process
Ongoing Problem Solving Tactics
Mindset Oriented Tactics
Visualize Your Desired Outcomes
Ask Questions Searching for Solutions
Always See Opportunities for New Learnings
Think Critically
Think Creatively
Think is Solitude
Let Go of Fears
Let Go of Judgments and Criticisms
Let Go of Biases and Assumptions
Allow for Fantasizing
Allow for Playfulness
Allow for Idea Incubation
Explore Funny and Foolish Ideas
Explore Alternative Perspectives Using Lenses
Childhood Lens
Athlete’s Lens
Artist’s Lens
Scientist or Inventor’s Lens
Politician’s Lens
Action Oriented Tactics
Persistently Write Out Questions
Read Broadly
Update Your Skills and Knowledge
Use Positive Language
Use Concept Maps and Mind Maps
Use Diagrams
Create and Use a Problem Solving System
Concluding Thoughts
Time to Assimilate these Concepts
Recommended IQ Matrix Bundles
Gain More Knowledge…
About The Author
Adam Sicinski

Content: A Beginner's Guide for Becoming a Better Problem Solver
A Beginner’s Guide for Becoming a Better Problem Solver
Effective Thinker / By Adam Sicinski
How you think about a problem is more important than the problem itself. – Norman Vincent Peale
Three Methods of Thinking
Problem-solving, creative and critical thinking go hand-in-hand helping us to see the world from a number of different vantage points. Each of these ways of thinking strengthens our capacity to think flexibly and intelligently when faced with the unending problems that life throws our way. This post will specifically focus on the process of problem-solving and how you can use it to break through life’s most difficult challenges. We will specifically explore the attitude, beliefs, habits, and qualities that are indispensable for effective problem-solving. We will also outline a primary problem-solving method that will help you to break down any obstacles that stand in your way. And to finish off we will look at some ongoing problem-solving tactics you can use to keep your mind focused and proactive when dealing with life’s daily challenges. This article post is part of the Effective Thinking series of IQ Matrix maps that are designed to help you successfully deal with the problems and challenges confronting your reality. Topics within this series include: • Part 1: