Have you caught yourself saying that there could be no other
solution to a problem, and that the problem just leads to a
dead end? Have you sometimes felt stumped feeling that a
problem can't be solved? Did it feel like you had exhausted
all possibilities and yet you still have this large,
unconquerable mountain before you?

The pressure of having to solve such a problem may be
overwhelming, but don't worry. With some creative problem
solving techniques, you can see your problem in a different
light. And that light might just be the end of the tunnel
that leads to possible solutions.

But you must first accept that more than one solution to
your problems may exist, and that problems you thought were
unsolvable aren't unsolvable. With this optimistic mindset,
you can try to be a little bit more creative in solving your
problems.

First of all, maybe you can't solve your problems because
you haven't really taken a hard look at what the problem is.
Trying to understand the problem and having a concrete
understanding of its workings is integral to solving it. If
you know how it works, then you have a better foundation
towards solving the problem.

Try to identify the participating entities and their
relationships with one another. Take note of the things you
stand to gain and any you stand to lose from the current
problem. Now you have a simple statement of what the problem
is.

Second of all, try to take note of all of the constraints
and assumptions you have about the problem. Sometimes it's
these assumptions that obstruct our view of possible
solutions. You have to identify which assumptions prove
valid and which ones need to be addressed.

Third of all, try to solve the problem in small steps. Solve
it going from general view towards the more detailed parts
of the problem. This is called the top-down approach. Write
down the question, and then come up with a one sentence
solution, a general statement of what will solve the
problem. From here you can develop the solution further.

Next, although it helps to think critically as you solve a
problem, you must also keep a creative, analytical voice at
the back of your head. At the same time, look for chinks in
the armor of that solution.

At this point, it also helps to remember that more than one
solution can be developed. Try to keep track of all the
solutions and their developments.

And keep this old adage in mind, as well: two heads are
better than one. When you or someone else comes up with a
possible solution, think creatively about how you could make
that solution work. Always be open to new ideas. You don't
have to tread through the waters alone. In fact, you can
only benefit from listening to all the ideas each person
has, especially when the person you're talking to has had
experience solving problems similar to yours.

Lastly, be patient. As long as you persevere, you increase
the chances that a solution will present itself. No one
created a perfect breakthrough invention the first time
around.

So, the next time you see a problem you think you can't
solve, think again. The solution might just be staring you
right in the face. All it takes is just a little creative
thinking and some planning and work.

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Kori Puckett provides more self-help and success oriented articles, which can be found at http://www.KoriPuckett.com. Find the missing link that'll finally help you get the consistent and long-lasting results you want. Visit:
http://www.MindOverMatterSecrets.com