What are some ways to approach a problem from a new perspective?

1 Ask different questions

One way to approach a problem from a new perspective is to ask different questions about it. Instead of focusing on the obvious or the familiar, try to challenge your assumptions and explore other angles. For example, you can ask yourself: What is the root cause of the problem? What are the hidden opportunities or benefits of the problem? What are the worst-case and best-case scenarios? What are the alternative solutions or outcomes? Asking different questions can help you uncover new insights and possibilities.

2 Use different tools or methods

Another way to approach a problem from a new perspective is to use different tools or methods to analyze it. Instead of relying on the same tools or methods that you always use, try to experiment with new ones that can help you see the problem in a different light. For example, you can use mind maps, diagrams, sketches, charts, or other visual aids to organize your thoughts and identify patterns or connections. You can also use brainstorming, reverse brainstorming, SCAMPER, or other creative techniques to generate ideas and solutions.

3 Seek different feedback or input

A third way to approach a problem from a new perspective is to seek different feedback or input from others. Instead of limiting yourself to your own opinions or those of your usual collaborators, try to reach out to people who have different backgrounds, experiences, skills, or perspectives. For example, you can ask your customers, suppliers, competitors, mentors, experts, or other stakeholders for their views and suggestions. You can also join online forums, groups, or communities related to your problem or industry and learn from others.

4 Try different scenarios or experiments

A fourth way to approach a problem from a new perspective is to try different scenarios or experiments to test your assumptions and solutions. Instead of sticking to the same plan or strategy that you have used before, try to vary some elements and observe the results. For example, you can change your target market, pricing, marketing channels, product features, or service delivery and measure the impact on your problem. You can also use simulations, prototypes, or pilot projects to test your ideas and solutions.

5 Take a different break or distraction

A fifth way to approach a problem from a new perspective is to take a different break or distraction from it. Instead of working on the problem continuously or obsessively, try to step away from it for a while and do something else that can refresh your mind and stimulate your creativity. For example, you can take a walk, exercise, meditate, read, watch, listen, or play something that is unrelated to your problem. You can also switch to another task or project that requires a different skill or mindset.

6 Learn from different sources or examples

A sixth way to approach a problem from a new perspective is to learn from different sources or examples that can inspire you or teach you something new. Instead of relying on the same sources or examples that you have used before, try to explore new ones that can offer you different insights or solutions. For example, you can read books, articles, blogs, podcasts, or videos that cover topics or fields that are relevant or interesting to your problem. You can also study cases, stories, or models of other businesses or individuals who have solved similar or different problems.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?