Some problems or challenges are small and does not require much effort to solve and others require decisions that are life-altering. These are the problems most people need help with.

Most of us do not know how to solve our problems in a creative format.  When confronted with problems we get depressed, angry and defensive.  These fears are not productive to solving the problem at hand.  What is your technique for solving the problems that surely arise in your life?

Henry Ford says, “Most people spend more time and energy going around problems than in trying to solve them.”

One of the first steps is to recognize that we have a problem.  Once this is done you need to decide if the solution to this problem is a decision you need to make in solitude or with the help of others.

These are (4) techniques I have used that work well for me.

1. One simple technique that works well in solitude or with a group is to brainstorm for solutions. Brainstorming can generate a large number of ideas and solutions to a problem quickly.  It is especially fast if another party is involved.  This is how it works:  Write the problem at the top of a clean sheet of paper. Split the remaining sheet of paper down the middle with a line. Write a solution on one side of the line and any concerns with that solution on the other side of the line. Write at least 25 solutions for each person.  These solutions will come easy at first but will become more difficult the closer you get to the 15^th.  Choose one or more of the solutions and begin working on it immediately.
2. Another popular technique is brain mapping. This is how it works.  Take a clean sheet of paper and draw a circle in the middle.  In that circle write your problem.  Draw a short line from that circle, draw a circle to connect the line and write a solution to the problem.  Draw as many short lines with circles attached until the page is filled with solutions and any concerns to those answers.  Once all of the ideas are captured you can prioritize and take action.
3. This technique is one of my favorites. I got this technique from my mentor Brian Tr acy. Sit quietly for 60 minutes. Do not move by walking.   It may be better to drive to a park or secluded area, and sit quietly there for 60 minutes.  If you stay at home you may want to answer the phone and other interruptions can disturb you. Ask your subconscious for the solution to your problem and sit quietly, let your thoughts flow until you get an answer.
4. The last problem solving technique is to let me sleep on it. Before going off to sleep ask your sub-conscious to send you a solution to your problem.  When you ask for the solution to your problem know without a doubt that the answer is coming.  The biggest problem with this technique is when the answer comes it is frequently ignored.  The answer may be  a hunch or gut feeling. I received the answer for two serious and life changing  situations years apart by watching TV casually after asking for an answer. When I saw the commercials I felt like I was slapped.  I knew that was the solution to my challenge. The right answer will come at various and unusual times.  You must listen with your feelings as well as your ears.

You now have four effective ways to solve your problems.  They are simply but not always easy however, they do work.   Give one or more a try and make a promise to yourself whatever answer you choose decide to act on it immediately.

Honor yourself!