Unlocking Opportunities: Mastering the Skill of Problem-Solving

"The problem is not that there are problems. The problem is expecting otherwise and thinking that having problems is a problem." – Theodore I. Rubin.

Life presents us with challenges from the moment we take our first breath to our very last. It's inevitable, and yet, many of us, including myself, are guilty of occasionally ignoring these problems. We tell ourselves that the issue isn’t as pressing as it seems, or we convince ourselves that time will take care of it. We procrastinate, hoping it will just fade away. But if we're honest, we all know that this approach rarely, if ever, works.

By experience, I've learned that brushing problems under the rug only makes them grow larger and more difficult to manage. When we allow small challenges to fester, they often evolve into bigger obstacles that could have been easily handled early on. This leads to stress and missed opportunities, which is something I’ve certainly experienced.

So, how can we face problems head-on and solve them effectively? Here are some guiding philosophies that have helped me, and hopefully, they will offer you the same clarity.

1. Creativity: Creativity gives us the power to look at problems from a new angle. It's amazing what happens when we allow ourselves the freedom to think beyond the obvious. Creative solutions often lead to innovation, opening doors we never knew existed.

2. Logic: While creativity opens doors, logic keeps us grounded. By balancing logic with imagination, we can make sense of complex situations and choose the most practical solutions. When you think logically, it becomes easier to break down even the most complicated problems into smaller, more manageable steps.

3. Proactivity: One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that the best way to deal with a problem is to anticipate it. The most effective problem solvers don’t wait for an issue to manifest; they identify risks early and take action to prevent them. This approach not only saves time but reduces the stress of dealing with last-minute crises.

4. Defining the problem: J. P. Morgan once said, "No problem can be solved until it is reduced to some simple form." This is a fundamental truth. I’ve found that when problems feel overwhelming, it’s usually because I haven’t defined them clearly enough. By breaking the problem down into its most basic form, we can focus on solving the core issue, not just its symptoms.

5. Brainstorming: Collaboration is key. By bringing people together to brainstorm, we unlock new perspectives and ideas. In my experience, collective problem-solving often yields solutions that I would never have thought of on my own. It also reminds us that we’re not alone; there’s strength in numbers.

6. Critical thinking: When facing any issue, I’ve found that staying organised and thinking critically about the problem from all angles makes the difference between a rushed solution and a thoughtful one. Critical thinking keeps us grounded, allowing us to stay on track and not be swayed by emotions or distractions.

7. Long-term perspective: Quick fixes are tempting but often create more problems in the long run. Looking at the bigger picture and thinking about how today’s solution will impact the future ensures we create lasting, sustainable solutions. The more we focus on the long term, the less we’ll have to revisit the same issues.

8. Systems approach: I've learned to take a systems approach when tackling problems. Often, what seems like a standalone issue is part of a larger web of interconnected factors. By understanding the bigger picture, we can address the root causes and create solutions that work across the board.

9. Working with minimal information: We’ve all been there, facing a problem with limited information at hand. It’s daunting, but this is where our ability to adapt comes in. I've found that being comfortable with ambiguity and making decisions with the information you have, even if it's incomplete, is a powerful skill.

10. The people factor: Finally, and perhaps most importantly, never forget the people factor. As Robert Redford said, "Problems can become opportunities when the right people come together." Any solution we implement impacts people, and having the right team can transform a seemingly insurmountable problem into a great success. Involving others, whether it’s seeking advice or working together to find a solution, makes all the difference.

Along the way, I’ve also discovered that structured methodologies like PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act), DMAIC (Define-Measure-Analyse-Improve-Control), A3 Thinking, and 8D (Eight Disciplines) offer practical frameworks for tackling problems methodically. These approaches ensure that our solutions are not just reactive but thoughtfully considered, continuously improving, and adaptable.

• PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act): A cyclical approach that encourages continuous improvement. Start by planning a solution, implement it, check the results, and then act to standardise or improve further.
• DMAIC (Define-Measure-Analyse-Improve-Control): Often used in process improvement, this structured approach helps identify and eliminate problems systematically.
• A3 Thinking: A problem-solving tool that uses a single sheet of paper to articulate the problem, analysis, and proposed solutions, fostering clear communication and understanding.
• 8D (Eight Disciplines): A team-oriented problem-solving method that focuses on identifying, correcting, and eliminating recurring problems, ensuring a comprehensive approach to addressing issues.

Now, why is problem-solving such a critical life skill? Because problems don’t disappear when we ignore them; they tend to grow. The right approach to problem-solving gives us control, not only over the present but also over the future. It builds resilience and sharpens our ability to handle whatever life throws our way.

When we adopt these strategies and refine our problem-solving skills, we unlock potential and transform obstacles into opportunities. It’s about embracing problems as a natural part of life and learning how to face them, manage them, and, ultimately, thrive because of them.

As Henry J. Kaiser wisely said, "Problems are only opportunities in work clothes." When we view problems through this lens, they become less daunting and more of a challenge to be embraced, not avoided. Let's continue to approach our problems with clarity, creativity, and courage and turn them into opportunities for growth and success.