Lifelong Learning

Problem Solving: Problem solving is the process of identifying a problem, developing possible solutions, and taking the appropriate action. 

• Relias course to check out: Problem Solving: Solutions in the Workplace 

• For more information on developing this skill:  6 Ways to Enhance your Problem Solving Skills

• Pro tip: Choose one problem every day that you will work toward solving and give some undivided attention to resolving it.    

• Alison free courses  

• Exercises to strengthen problem solving skills:  

  • Work your brain with brain-boosting puzzles and games like chess, Soduku, and Rubik’s Cube. 

  • Work out problems on paper. This allows you to view problems more objectively and organized. 

  • Use mind maps to solve small problems so you can better use them to solve bigger problems. A mind map is a visual snapshot of a problem and all of  its possible solutions. Create a mind map by making the problem you are trying to solve the central idea (make it as a circle in the middle of the page.) Then create branches from the central idea that show possible solutions to the problem. Fill in the branches with as much detail as possible about the solution. This provides a visual representation of the problem and possible solutions. 

• Journaling activity: When it comes to problem solving, there are some people who like to work through problems on their own, while others would like to talk things through with someone else. Which type of person are you? What are some of the pros and cons associated with each type of problem solver? 

• A good first step:  Keep your focus on the solution instead of the problem. Acknowledge the problem, then move your focus to what the solution could be rather than what went wrong.