The first step to becoming a great problem solver is to first identify a problem. While millions of problems exist in our daily lives, it can be somewhat difficult to sit down at once and think of a handful of these problems. Therefore, the first step in enhancing your problem solving skills is to:
1. Create a list of daily problems.
Simply, write down five problems a day, everyday. Your list of potential problems to solve will quickly grow large. These can be work, personal, relationship, or any type of problem that causes pain in your life.
2. Create ideal solutions to these problems.
The next step is to create a short and simple solution to these problems. Your solution should not already exist, otherwise it would not be a problem to begin with. So, you will be creating something new. If you have the time, you can come up with more than one feasible solution for each problem, but at least one is the minimum.
3. Create an in-depth solution for one of these problems.
At the beginning of the day, when you are reflecting on your problems and solutions from the previous day, spend sometime in one area. Take one of your solutions that you baked up and really hash it out. You don't need a four page business plan, but think through more of the details of your solution and how you would roll it out if you had sufficient time and money.
Repeat this process. Everyday. You will begin noticing more problems, but instead of viewing them as nuisances, you will view them as opportunities. Feel free to share some of the problems and solutions that you have identified by using this process.
