7 Steps to Solving a Problem

Here are seven steps you can take when confronted with a problem. Instead of feeling

overwhelmed, view the problem as a challenge or a game to figure out.

1. Look at the Big Picture. Get an overview of what is happening; look at the situation as objectively as possible. Gather relevant facts and analyze the problem. It is important to look at the situation from many different angles. Remain calm and remember to keep personal feelings and facts separate.

2. Identify the real issue. Sometimes there are many factors that impact a problem and make it even worse. The task is to determine what the major problem that caused of the other minor problems.

3. Brainstorm solutions. List all the possible solutions. Do not pass any judgment on the solutions; just list them. Be creative.

4. Select the best solution. Consider all of the possible solutions carefully and weigh all the advantages and disadvantages. Select the solution that has the most advantages and the one that will eliminate the minor problems.

5. Make a plan. Develop a plan to resolve the problem by identifying the resources that can be utilized to assure that the plan will be successful. Be certain that you have a clear plan of action; otherwise the ―right solution will not work.

6. Put the plan into action. You need to be committed to follow through with the plan and put your resources to work.

7. Check on the progress and modify the plan as needed. The final step is to implement the plan. Don’t be discouraged if it does not work exactly as you planned the first time. You may need to make slight modification in the plan.

“Everything by the inch is a cinch but by the yard it’s hard.”