Problem Solving - A Six Step Technique

Sometimes our problems can seem so overwhelming that we feel powerless to deal with them. Here are some ideas on how to take a practical approach to breaking a problem down into manageable steps for problem solving.

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STEP 1: Define the problem

Defining the problem requires working out in some detail what the problem actually is. For example, saying I don’t have enough money is too vague & needs to be more specific. When defining the problem like this you need to state how much money you need, for how long and for what purpose. This will give you a concrete goal to work towards. In this process, “I don’t have enough money “ becomes, “I need an extra $100 a week to pay off my debts to the bank for the next 5 weeks”.

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STEP 2: Brainstorm All Possible Solutions To The Problem

Once you have clearly defined the problem, write down all of the possible solutions you can think of, regardless of how absurd they may seem at first. Often absurd ideas can help lead your mind to some very creative solutions. Getting someone to help you brainstorm can also help you generate more ideas. A possible brainstorm for the above example could be:

Get a higher paid job

Go Gambling

Rob a bank

Borrow money from partner

Get a second job

Work overtime

Sell some furniture

Budget better

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STEP 3: Evaluate Each Solution

Having generated a list of solutions, weigh up the pros and cons of each solution. You can do this by assigning a number or plus & minuses or giving each solution a rating out of 10. You could also put the solutions in order from best to worse. An evaluation may look like this:

Get a higher paying Job 70

GO gambling 0

Rob a bank 0

Borrow money from partner 20

Get a second job 55

Work overtime 100

Sell some furniture 40

Budget Better 90

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STEP 4: Choose A Solution

From your evaluation, choose a solution which you believe will best suit your needs and has the best chance of solving the problem. Note that in the above example, it may be possible to choose more than one solution, for example working overtime AND budgeting better.

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STEP 5: Put The Solution Into Action

In this stage, you decide how you are going to put your chosen solutions into action. This may require answering a series of questions that begin with “who”, “what”, “where” and “how”. For example, “how will I get more overtime? Who could I ask? How much could I ask for? What extra work can I do? When will I ask for more overtime”. These questions may require further problem solving. Once these questions are answered, put the solution into action!!

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STEP 6: Evaluate The Outcome

Plan a day to look back an decide whether your solution has worked. If it has, enjoy the benefits. If it hasn’t start again , keeping in mind that there is a solution to every problem.

(Material sourced from the Illawarra Community Health - Problem Gambling Facilitators Manual).

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