Feeling Stuck? Try this Six Stage Problem-Solving Process
We all face difficulties in life. Find solutions by digging deep into your resourceful self with this 6-stage problem-solving process.
Beverly Landais PCC
Are you struggling to find a way through a complicated issue? You are more resourceful than you think. Set yourself up for success by taking a walk outside, preferably in a green space. Pause and look around you. Enjoy a few nourishing deep breaths. Stop and think about a time you successfully deal with a problem. What strengths did you use? Who gave you support? What resources did you tap? How can you use this experience to help you now? Return refreshed to the issue that is troubling you. Now you are better resourced and motivated to deal with it.Â
Next, find a quiet space where you will be undisturbed. Get out a sheet of paper and a pen. Set a time limit so that you can focus. Perhaps use time chunking technique to avoid excess rumination. Then try applying the six stages of this problem-solving process:Â
1. Write down the issue/problem. Keep going until there is nothing left to write then ask ‘what else?’ This question will encourage you to think deeply and stimulate your creativity.Â
2. Review what you have written. Circle things that are linked so that you can identify patterns.Â
3. Ask ‘what will matter in a year?’ Cross out the things that don’t meet this challenge. Focus on the things that do.Â
4. Take the first issue. Ask ‘what might be a different way to frame this situation?’ Then write down all the possible ways forward. Avoid self-editing. Let it flow.Â
5. Identify which of the ideas you can begin to implement. Save the other good ideas for later. Enjoy a laugh at the more extreme ones (it releases tension).Â
6. Commit to begin today with the one idea that you have identified. Take a first step towards gaining control of the issue. Review your progress in 7 days. What have you learnt? How can you further improve the situation? What is ‘good enough’?Â
Beverly Landais PCC
Certified Personal & Team Coach: enabling people to be at their resourceful best
We live in an ever-changing dynamic world. At best, this can be exhilarating and provide excellent opportunities for personal growth. At worst, it can be exhausting and stressful as you try to do it all, which can lead to the feeling that you are doing nothing well. Maybe you are in such a situation? Perhaps you have reached a point where you long to create the life that you want rather than the one that is happening? If so, I may be the right coach to support you. My purpose is simple. I work with people to help them be at their resourceful best. I bring all of my expertise to the service of my clients. My skill set includes 30 years of experience in business, including board level. As a Professional Certified Coach and Positive Psychology Practitioner, I can help you to think your options through, make better choices and do the things that promote wellbeing, bring personal as well as professional satisfaction and make you happy. I am particularly skilled in supporting those who are at a crossroads in their life. My coaching approach can help you gain a clear understanding of your values, motivators, drivers, strengths and consider the impact of blind spots – and what you can do to mitigate these. I work via video calls, by phone and email. Should you wish to arrange a 30-minute complimentary discovery session, please contact me via connect@beverlylandais.co.uk
