problem solving in our daily life

From Dilemmas to Solutions: Problem-Solving Examples to Learn From

• By Daria Burnett
• May 21, 2023

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Introduction to Problem-Solving

Life is full of challenges and dilemmas, both big and small.

But if there’s one skill that can help you navigate these, it’s problem-solving .

So, what exactly is problem-solving? And why is it such a crucial skill in daily life?

Understanding the Concept of Problem-Solving

Problem-solving is a mental process that involves identifying, analyzing, and resolving challenges or difficulties.

It’s like a journey that starts with a problem and ends with a solution.

It’s a skill that’s not just used in the field of psychology but in all aspects of life.

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Whether you’re trying to decide on the best route to work, dealing with a disagreement with a friend, or figuring out how to fix a leaky faucet, you’re using your problem-solving skills.

When you’re faced with a problem, your brain goes through a series of steps to find a solution.

This process can be conscious or unconscious and can involve logical thinking, creativity, and prior knowledge.

Effective problem-solving can lead to better decisions and outcomes, making it a valuable tool in your personal and professional life.

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Importance of Problem-Solving in Daily Life

Why is problem-solving so important in daily life? Well, it’s simple.

Problems are a part of life.

They arise in different shapes and sizes, and in different areas of life, including work, relationships, health, and personal growth.

Having strong problem-solving skills can help you navigate these challenges effectively and efficiently.

In your personal life, problem-solving can help you manage stress and conflict, make better decisions, and achieve your goals.

In the workplace, it can help you navigate complex projects, improve processes, and foster innovation.

Problem-solving is also a key skill in many professions and industries, from engineering and science to healthcare and customer service.

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Moreover, problem-solving can contribute to your overall mental well-being.

It can give you a sense of control and agency, reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, and foster a positive attitude.

It’s also a key component of resilience, the ability to bounce back from adversity.

In conclusion, problem-solving is a fundamental skill in life.

It’s a tool you can use to tackle challenges, make informed decisions, and drive change.

By understanding the concept of problem-solving and recognizing its importance in daily life, you’re taking the first step toward becoming a more effective problem solver.

As we delve deeper into this topic, you’ll discover practical problem-solving examples, learn about different problem-solving techniques, and gain insights on how to improve your own problem-solving skills.

So, stay tuned and continue your exploration of introduction to psychology with us.

Stages of Problem-Solving

The process of problem-solving can be broken down into three key stages: identifying the problem , developing possible solutions , and implementing the best solution .

Each stage requires a different set of skills and strategies.

By understanding these stages, you can enhance your problem-solving abilities and tackle various challenges more effectively.

Identifying the Problem

The first step in problem-solving is recognizing that a problem exists.

This involves defining the issue clearly and understanding its root cause.

You might need to gather information, ask questions, and analyze the situation from multiple perspectives.

It can be helpful to write down the problem and think about how it impacts you or others involved.

For instance, if you’re struggling with time management, the problem might be that you have too many obligations and not enough time.

Or perhaps your methods of organizing your tasks aren’t effective.

It’s important to be as specific as possible when identifying the problem, as this will guide the rest of the problem-solving process.

Developing Possible Solutions

Once you’ve identified the problem, the next step is to brainstorm possible solutions.

This is where creativity comes into play.

Don’t limit yourself; even ideas that seem unrealistic or out of the box can lead to effective solutions.

Consider different strategies and approaches.

You could try using techniques like mind mapping, listing pros and cons, or consulting with others for fresh perspectives.

Remember, the goal is to generate a variety of options, not to choose a solution at this stage.

Implementing the Best Solution

The final stage of problem-solving is to select the best solution and put it into action.

Review the options you’ve developed, evaluate their potential effectiveness, and make a decision.

Keep in mind that the “best” solution isn’t necessarily the perfect one (as there might not be a perfect solution), but rather the one that seems most likely to achieve your desired outcome given the circumstances.

Once you’ve chosen a solution, plan out the steps needed to implement it and then take action.

Monitor the results and adjust your approach as necessary.

If the problem persists, don’t be discouraged; return to the previous stages, reassess the problem and your potential solutions, and try again.

Remember, problem-solving is a dynamic process that often involves trial and error.

It’s an essential skill in many areas of life, from everyday challenges to workplace dilemmas.

To learn more about the psychology behind problem-solving and decision-making, check out our introduction to psychology article.

Problem-Solving Examples

Understanding the concept of problem-solving is one thing, but seeing it in action is another.

To help you grasp the practical application of problem-solving strategies, let’s explore three different problem-solving examples from daily life, the workplace, and relationships.

Daily Life Problem-Solving Example

Imagine you’re trying to lose weight but struggle with late-night snacking.

The issue isn’t uncommon, but it’s hindering your progress towards your weight loss goal.

• Identifying the Problem : Late-night snacking is causing you to consume extra calories, preventing weight loss.
• Developing Possible Solutions : You could consider eating an earlier dinner, having a healthier snack option, or practicing mindful eating.
• Implementing the Best Solution : After trying out different solutions, you find that preparing a healthy snack in advance minimizes your calorie intake and satisfies your late-night cravings, helping you stay on track with your weight loss goal.

Workplace Problem-Solving Example

Let’s consider a scenario where a team at work is failing to meet project deadlines consistently.

• Identifying the Problem : The team is not completing projects on time, causing delays in the overall project timeline.
• Developing Possible Solutions : The team could consider improving their time management skills, using project management tools, or redistributing tasks among team members.
• Implementing the Best Solution : After trying out different strategies, the team finds that using a project management tool helps them stay organized, delegate tasks effectively, and complete projects within the given timeframe.

For more insights on effective management styles that can help in problem-solving at the workplace, check out our articles on autocratic leadership , democratic leadership style , and laissez faire leadership .

Relationship Problem-Solving Example

In a romantic relationship, conflicts can occasionally arise.

Let’s imagine a common issue where one partner feels the other isn’t spending enough quality time with them.

• Identifying the Problem : One partner feels neglected due to a lack of quality time spent together.
• Developing Possible Solutions : The couple could consider scheduling regular date nights, engaging in shared hobbies, or setting aside a specific time each day for undisturbed conversation.
• Implementing the Best Solution : The couple decides to implement a daily “unplugged” hour where they focus solely on each other without distractions. This results in improved relationship satisfaction.

For more on navigating relationship challenges, check out our articles on anxious avoidant attachment and emotional awareness .

These problem-solving examples illustrate how the process of identifying a problem, developing possible solutions, and implementing the best solution can be applied to various situations.

By understanding and applying these strategies, you can improve your problem-solving skills and navigate challenges more effectively.

Techniques for Effective Problem-Solving

As you navigate the world of problem-solving, you’ll find that there are multiple techniques you can use to arrive at a solution.

Each technique offers a unique approach to identifying issues, generating potential solutions, and choosing the best course of action.

In this section, we’ll explore three common techniques: Brainstorming , Root Cause Analysis , and SWOT Analysis .

Brainstorming

Brainstorming is a free-thinking method used to generate a large number of ideas related to a specific problem.

You do this by suspending criticism and allowing your creativity to flow.

The aim is to produce as many ideas as possible, even if they seem far-fetched.

You then evaluate these ideas to identify the most beneficial solutions.

By using brainstorming, you can encourage out-of-the-box thinking and possibly discover innovative solutions to challenging problems.

Root Cause Analysis

Root Cause Analysis (RCA) is a method used to identify the underlying causes of a problem.

The goal is to address these root causes rather than the symptoms of the problem.

This technique helps to prevent the same issue from recurring in the future.

There are several RCA methods, such as the “5 Whys” technique, where you ask “why” multiple times until you uncover the root cause of the problem.

By identifying and addressing the root cause, you tackle the problem at its source, which can lead to more effective and long-lasting solutions.

SWOT Analysis

SWOT Analysis is a strategic planning technique that helps you identify your Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats related to a problem.

This approach encourages you to examine the problem from different angles, helping you understand the resources you have at your disposal (Strengths), the areas where you could improve (Weaknesses), the external factors that could benefit you (Opportunities), and the external factors that could cause problems (Threats).

With this comprehensive understanding, you can develop a well-informed strategy to solve the problem.

Each of these problem-solving techniques provides a distinct approach to identifying and resolving issues.

By understanding and utilizing these methods, you can enhance your problem-solving skills and increase your effectiveness in dealing with challenges.

For more insights into effective problem-solving and other psychological topics, explore our introduction to psychology .

Improving Your Problem-Solving Skills

Learning to solve problems effectively is a skill that can be honed with time and practice.

The following are some ways to enhance your problem-solving capabilities.

Practice Makes Perfect

The saying “practice makes perfect” holds true when it comes to problem-solving.

The more problems you tackle, the better you’ll become at devising and implementing effective solutions.

Seek out opportunities to practice your problem-solving skills both in everyday life and in more complex situations.

This could involve resolving a dispute at work, figuring out a puzzle, or even strategizing in a board game.

Each problem you encounter is a new opportunity to apply and refine your skills.

Learning from Others’ Experiences

There’s much to be gained from observing how others approach problem-solving.

Whether it’s reading about problem solving examples from renowned psychologists or discussing strategies with colleagues, you can learn valuable techniques and perspectives from the experiences of others.

Consider participating in group activities that require problem-solving, such as escape rooms or team projects.

Observe how team members identify problems, brainstorm solutions, and decide on the best course of action.

Embracing a Growth Mindset

A key component of effective problem-solving is adopting a growth mindset.

This mindset, coined by psychologist Carol Dweck, is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work.

When you embrace a growth mindset, you view challenges as opportunities to learn and grow rather than as insurmountable obstacles.

Believing in your ability to develop and enhance your problem-solving skills over time can make the process less daunting and more rewarding.

So, when you encounter a problem, instead of thinking, “I can’t do this,” try thinking, “I can’t do this yet, but with effort and practice, I can learn.”

For more on the growth mindset, you might want to check out our article on what is intrinsic motivation which includes how a growth mindset can fuel your motivation to improve.

By practicing regularly, learning from others, and embracing a growth mindset, you can continually improve your problem-solving skills and become more adept at overcoming challenges you encounter.

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Problem-Solving Strategies and Obstacles

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Sean is a fact-checker and researcher with experience in sociology, field research, and data analytics.

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From deciding what to eat for dinner to considering whether it's the right time to buy a house, problem-solving is a large part of our daily lives. Learn some of the problem-solving strategies that exist and how to use them in real life, along with ways to overcome obstacles that are making it harder to resolve the issues you face.

What Is Problem-Solving?

In cognitive psychology , the term 'problem-solving' refers to the mental process that people go through to discover, analyze, and solve problems.

A problem exists when there is a goal that we want to achieve but the process by which we will achieve it is not obvious to us. Put another way, there is something that we want to occur in our life, yet we are not immediately certain how to make it happen.

Maybe you want a better relationship with your spouse or another family member but you're not sure how to improve it. Or you want to start a business but are unsure what steps to take. Problem-solving helps you figure out how to achieve these desires.

The problem-solving process involves:

• Discovery of the problem
• Deciding to tackle the issue
• Seeking to understand the problem more fully
• Researching available options or solutions
• Taking action to resolve the issue

Before problem-solving can occur, it is important to first understand the exact nature of the problem itself. If your understanding of the issue is faulty, your attempts to resolve it will also be incorrect or flawed.

Problem-Solving Mental Processes

Several mental processes are at work during problem-solving. Among them are:

• Perceptually recognizing the problem
• Representing the problem in memory
• Considering relevant information that applies to the problem
• Identifying different aspects of the problem
• Labeling and describing the problem

Problem-Solving Strategies

There are many ways to go about solving a problem. Some of these strategies might be used on their own, or you may decide to employ multiple approaches when working to figure out and fix a problem.

An algorithm is a step-by-step procedure that, by following certain "rules" produces a solution. Algorithms are commonly used in mathematics to solve division or multiplication problems. But they can be used in other fields as well.

In psychology, algorithms can be used to help identify individuals with a greater risk of mental health issues. For instance, research suggests that certain algorithms might help us recognize children with an elevated risk of suicide or self-harm.

One benefit of algorithms is that they guarantee an accurate answer. However, they aren't always the best approach to problem-solving, in part because detecting patterns can be incredibly time-consuming.

There are also concerns when machine learning is involved—also known as artificial intelligence (AI)—such as whether they can accurately predict human behaviors.

Heuristics are shortcut strategies that people can use to solve a problem at hand. These "rule of thumb" approaches allow you to simplify complex problems, reducing the total number of possible solutions to a more manageable set.

If you find yourself sitting in a traffic jam, for example, you may quickly consider other routes, taking one to get moving once again. When shopping for a new car, you might think back to a prior experience when negotiating got you a lower price, then employ the same tactics.

While heuristics may be helpful when facing smaller issues, major decisions shouldn't necessarily be made using a shortcut approach. Heuristics also don't guarantee an effective solution, such as when trying to drive around a traffic jam only to find yourself on an equally crowded route.

Trial and Error

A trial-and-error approach to problem-solving involves trying a number of potential solutions to a particular issue, then ruling out those that do not work. If you're not sure whether to buy a shirt in blue or green, for instance, you may try on each before deciding which one to purchase.

This can be a good strategy to use if you have a limited number of solutions available. But if there are many different choices available, narrowing down the possible options using another problem-solving technique can be helpful before attempting trial and error.

In some cases, the solution to a problem can appear as a sudden insight. You are facing an issue in a relationship or your career when, out of nowhere, the solution appears in your mind and you know exactly what to do.

Insight can occur when the problem in front of you is similar to an issue that you've dealt with in the past. Although, you may not recognize what is occurring since the underlying mental processes that lead to insight often happen outside of conscious awareness .

Research indicates that insight is most likely to occur during times when you are alone—such as when going on a walk by yourself, when you're in the shower, or when lying in bed after waking up.

How to Apply Problem-Solving Strategies in Real Life

If you're facing a problem, you can implement one or more of these strategies to find a potential solution. Here's how to use them in real life:

• Create a flow chart . If you have time, you can take advantage of the algorithm approach to problem-solving by sitting down and making a flow chart of each potential solution, its consequences, and what happens next.
• Recall your past experiences . When a problem needs to be solved fairly quickly, heuristics may be a better approach. Think back to when you faced a similar issue, then use your knowledge and experience to choose the best option possible.
• Start trying potential solutions . If your options are limited, start trying them one by one to see which solution is best for achieving your desired goal. If a particular solution doesn't work, move on to the next.
• Take some time alone . Since insight is often achieved when you're alone, carve out time to be by yourself for a while. The answer to your problem may come to you, seemingly out of the blue, if you spend some time away from others.

Obstacles to Problem-Solving

Problem-solving is not a flawless process as there are a number of obstacles that can interfere with our ability to solve a problem quickly and efficiently. These obstacles include:

• Assumptions: When dealing with a problem, people can make assumptions about the constraints and obstacles that prevent certain solutions. Thus, they may not even try some potential options.
• Functional fixedness : This term refers to the tendency to view problems only in their customary manner. Functional fixedness prevents people from fully seeing all of the different options that might be available to find a solution.
• Irrelevant or misleading information: When trying to solve a problem, it's important to distinguish between information that is relevant to the issue and irrelevant data that can lead to faulty solutions. The more complex the problem, the easier it is to focus on misleading or irrelevant information.
• Mental set: A mental set is a tendency to only use solutions that have worked in the past rather than looking for alternative ideas. A mental set can work as a heuristic, making it a useful problem-solving tool. However, mental sets can also lead to inflexibility, making it more difficult to find effective solutions.

How to Improve Your Problem-Solving Skills

In the end, if your goal is to become a better problem-solver, it's helpful to remember that this is a process. Thus, if you want to improve your problem-solving skills, following these steps can help lead you to your solution:

• Recognize that a problem exists . If you are facing a problem, there are generally signs. For instance, if you have a mental illness , you may experience excessive fear or sadness, mood changes, and changes in sleeping or eating habits. Recognizing these signs can help you realize that an issue exists.
• Decide to solve the problem . Make a conscious decision to solve the issue at hand. Commit to yourself that you will go through the steps necessary to find a solution.
• Seek to fully understand the issue . Analyze the problem you face, looking at it from all sides. If your problem is relationship-related, for instance, ask yourself how the other person may be interpreting the issue. You might also consider how your actions might be contributing to the situation.
• Research potential options . Using the problem-solving strategies mentioned, research potential solutions. Make a list of options, then consider each one individually. What are some pros and cons of taking the available routes? What would you need to do to make them happen?
• Take action . Select the best solution possible and take action. Action is one of the steps required for change . So, go through the motions needed to resolve the issue.
• Try another option, if needed . If the solution you chose didn't work, don't give up. Either go through the problem-solving process again or simply try another option.

You can find a way to solve your problems as long as you keep working toward this goal—even if the best solution is simply to let go because no other good solution exists.

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Stewart SL, Celebre A, Hirdes JP, Poss JW. Risk of suicide and self-harm in kids: The development of an algorithm to identify high-risk individuals within the children's mental health system . Child Psychiat Human Develop . 2020;51:913-924. doi:10.1007/s10578-020-00968-9

Rosenbusch H, Soldner F, Evans AM, Zeelenberg M. Supervised machine learning methods in psychology: A practical introduction with annotated R code . Soc Personal Psychol Compass . 2021;15(2):e12579. doi:10.1111/spc3.12579

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By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

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10 Problem-solving strategies to turn challenges on their head

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What is an example of problem-solving?

What are the 5 steps to problem-solving, 10 effective problem-solving strategies, what skills do efficient problem solvers have, how to improve your problem-solving skills.

Problems come in all shapes and sizes — from workplace conflict to budget cuts.

Creative problem-solving is one of the most in-demand skills in all roles and industries. It can boost an organization’s human capital and give it a competitive edge. 

Problem-solving strategies are ways of approaching problems that can help you look beyond the obvious answers and find the best solution to your problem . 

Let’s take a look at a five-step problem-solving process and how to combine it with proven problem-solving strategies. This will give you the tools and skills to solve even your most complex problems.

Good problem-solving is an essential part of the decision-making process . To see what a problem-solving process might look like in real life, let’s take a common problem for SaaS brands — decreasing customer churn rates.

To solve this problem, the company must first identify it. In this case, the problem is that the churn rate is too high. 

Next, they need to identify the root causes of the problem. This could be anything from their customer service experience to their email marketing campaigns. If there are several problems, they will need a separate problem-solving process for each one. 

Let’s say the problem is with email marketing — they’re not nurturing existing customers. Now that they’ve identified the problem, they can start using problem-solving strategies to look for solutions. 

This might look like coming up with special offers, discounts, or bonuses for existing customers. They need to find ways to remind them to use their products and services while providing added value. This will encourage customers to keep paying their monthly subscriptions.

They might also want to add incentives, such as access to a premium service at no extra cost after 12 months of membership. They could publish blog posts that help their customers solve common problems and share them as an email newsletter.

The company should set targets and a time frame in which to achieve them. This will allow leaders to measure progress and identify which actions yield the best results.

Perhaps you’ve got a problem you need to tackle. Or maybe you want to be prepared the next time one arises. Either way, it’s a good idea to get familiar with the five steps of problem-solving. 

Use this step-by-step problem-solving method with the strategies in the following section to find possible solutions to your problem.

1. Identify the problem

The first step is to know which problem you need to solve. Then, you need to find the root cause of the problem. 

The best course of action is to gather as much data as possible, speak to the people involved, and separate facts from opinions. 

Once this is done, formulate a statement that describes the problem. Use rational persuasion to make sure your team agrees .

2. Break the problem down 

Identifying the problem allows you to see which steps need to be taken to solve it. 

First, break the problem down into achievable blocks. Then, use strategic planning to set a time frame in which to solve the problem and establish a timeline for the completion of each stage.

3. Generate potential solutions

At this stage, the aim isn’t to evaluate possible solutions but to generate as many ideas as possible. 

Encourage your team to use creative thinking and be patient — the best solution may not be the first or most obvious one.

Use one or more of the different strategies in the following section to help come up with solutions — the more creative, the better.

4. Evaluate the possible solutions

Once you’ve generated potential solutions, narrow them down to a shortlist. Then, evaluate the options on your shortlist. 

There are usually many factors to consider. So when evaluating a solution, ask yourself the following questions:

• Will my team be on board with the proposition?
• Does the solution align with organizational goals ?
• Is the solution likely to achieve the desired outcomes?
• Is the solution realistic and possible with current resources and constraints?
• Will the solution solve the problem without causing additional unintended problems?

5. Implement and monitor the solutions

Once you’ve identified your solution and got buy-in from your team, it’s time to implement it. 

But the work doesn’t stop there. You need to monitor your solution to see whether it actually solves your problem. 

Request regular feedback from the team members involved and have a monitoring and evaluation plan in place to measure progress.

If the solution doesn’t achieve your desired results, start this step-by-step process again.

There are many different ways to approach problem-solving. Each is suitable for different types of problems. 

The most appropriate problem-solving techniques will depend on your specific problem. You may need to experiment with several strategies before you find a workable solution.

Here are 10 effective problem-solving strategies for you to try:

• Use a solution that worked before
• Brainstorming
• Work backward
• Use the Kipling method
• Draw the problem
• Use trial and error
• Sleep on it
• Get advice from your peers
• Use the Pareto principle
• Add successful solutions to your toolkit

Let’s break each of these down.

1. Use a solution that worked before

It might seem obvious, but if you’ve faced similar problems in the past, look back to what worked then. See if any of the solutions could apply to your current situation and, if so, replicate them.

2. Brainstorming

The more people you enlist to help solve the problem, the more potential solutions you can come up with.

Use different brainstorming techniques to workshop potential solutions with your team. They’ll likely bring something you haven’t thought of to the table.

3. Work backward

Working backward is a way to reverse engineer your problem. Imagine your problem has been solved, and make that the starting point.

Then, retrace your steps back to where you are now. This can help you see which course of action may be most effective.

4. Use the Kipling method

This is a method that poses six questions based on Rudyard Kipling’s poem, “ I Keep Six Honest Serving Men .” 

• What is the problem?
• Why is the problem important?
• When did the problem arise, and when does it need to be solved?
• How did the problem happen?
• Where is the problem occurring?
• Who does the problem affect?

Answering these questions can help you identify possible solutions.

5. Draw the problem

Sometimes it can be difficult to visualize all the components and moving parts of a problem and its solution. Drawing a diagram can help.

This technique is particularly helpful for solving process-related problems. For example, a product development team might want to decrease the time they take to fix bugs and create new iterations. Drawing the processes involved can help you see where improvements can be made.

6. Use trial-and-error

A trial-and-error approach can be useful when you have several possible solutions and want to test them to see which one works best.

7. Sleep on it

Finding the best solution to a problem is a process. Remember to take breaks and get enough rest . Sometimes, a walk around the block can bring inspiration, but you should sleep on it if possible.

A good night’s sleep helps us find creative solutions to problems. This is because when you sleep, your brain sorts through the day’s events and stores them as memories. This enables you to process your ideas at a subconscious level. 

If possible, give yourself a few days to develop and analyze possible solutions. You may find you have greater clarity after sleeping on it. Your mind will also be fresh, so you’ll be able to make better decisions.

8. Get advice from your peers

Getting input from a group of people can help you find solutions you may not have thought of on your own. 

For solo entrepreneurs or freelancers, this might look like hiring a coach or mentor or joining a mastermind group. 

For leaders , it might be consulting other members of the leadership team or working with a business coach .

It’s important to recognize you might not have all the skills, experience, or knowledge necessary to find a solution alone. 

9. Use the Pareto principle

The Pareto principle — also known as the 80/20 rule — can help you identify possible root causes and potential solutions for your problems.

Although it’s not a mathematical law, it’s a principle found throughout many aspects of business and life. For example, 20% of the sales reps in a company might close 80% of the sales. 

You may be able to narrow down the causes of your problem by applying the Pareto principle. This can also help you identify the most appropriate solutions.

10. Add successful solutions to your toolkit

Every situation is different, and the same solutions might not always work. But by keeping a record of successful problem-solving strategies, you can build up a solutions toolkit. 

These solutions may be applicable to future problems. Even if not, they may save you some of the time and work needed to come up with a new solution.

Improving problem-solving skills is essential for professional development — both yours and your team’s. Here are some of the key skills of effective problem solvers:

• Critical thinking and analytical skills
• Communication skills , including active listening
• Decision-making
• Planning and prioritization
• Emotional intelligence , including empathy and emotional regulation
• Time management
• Data analysis
• Research skills
• Project management

And they see problems as opportunities. Everyone is born with problem-solving skills. But accessing these abilities depends on how we view problems. Effective problem-solvers see problems as opportunities to learn and improve.

Ready to work on your problem-solving abilities? Get started with these seven tips.

1. Build your problem-solving skills

One of the best ways to improve your problem-solving skills is to learn from experts. Consider enrolling in organizational training , shadowing a mentor , or working with a coach .

2. Practice

Practice using your new problem-solving skills by applying them to smaller problems you might encounter in your daily life. 

Alternatively, imagine problematic scenarios that might arise at work and use problem-solving strategies to find hypothetical solutions.

3. Don’t try to find a solution right away

Often, the first solution you think of to solve a problem isn’t the most appropriate or effective.

Instead of thinking on the spot, give yourself time and use one or more of the problem-solving strategies above to activate your creative thinking. 

4. Ask for feedback

Receiving feedback is always important for learning and growth. Your perception of your problem-solving skills may be different from that of your colleagues. They can provide insights that help you improve. 

5. Learn new approaches and methodologies

There are entire books written about problem-solving methodologies if you want to take a deep dive into the subject. 

We recommend starting with “ Fixed — How to Perfect the Fine Art of Problem Solving ” by Amy E. Herman. 

6. Experiment

Tried-and-tested problem-solving techniques can be useful. However, they don’t teach you how to innovate and develop your own problem-solving approaches. 

Sometimes, an unconventional approach can lead to the development of a brilliant new idea or strategy. So don’t be afraid to suggest your most “out there” ideas.

7. Analyze the success of your competitors

Do you have competitors who have already solved the problem you’re facing? Look at what they did, and work backward to solve your own problem. 

For example, Netflix started in the 1990s as a DVD mail-rental company. Its main competitor at the time was Blockbuster. 

But when streaming became the norm in the early 2000s, both companies faced a crisis. Netflix innovated, unveiling its streaming service in 2007. 

If Blockbuster had followed Netflix’s example, it might have survived. Instead, it declared bankruptcy in 2010.

Use problem-solving strategies to uplevel your business

When facing a problem, it’s worth taking the time to find the right solution. 

Otherwise, we risk either running away from our problems or headlong into solutions. When we do this, we might miss out on other, better options.

Use the problem-solving strategies outlined above to find innovative solutions to your business’ most perplexing problems.

If you’re ready to take problem-solving to the next level, request a demo with BetterUp . Our expert coaches specialize in helping teams develop and implement strategies that work.

Boost your productivity

Maximize your time and productivity with strategies from our expert coaches.

Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

8 creative solutions to your most challenging problems

5 problem-solving questions to prepare you for your next interview, what are metacognitive skills examples in everyday life, what is lateral thinking 7 techniques to encourage creative ideas, 31 examples of problem solving performance review phrases, learn what process mapping is and how to create one (+ examples), leadership activities that encourage employee engagement, can dreams help you solve problems 6 ways to try, how much do distractions cost 8 effects of lack of focus, similar articles, the pareto principle: how the 80/20 rule can help you do more with less, thinking outside the box: 8 ways to become a creative problem solver, experimentation brings innovation: create an experimental workplace, effective problem statements have these 5 components, contingency planning: 4 steps to prepare for the unexpected, stay connected with betterup, get our newsletter, event invites, plus product insights and research..

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Introduction to Problem Solving Skills

What is problem solving and why is it important.

The ability to solve problems is a basic life skill and is essential to our day-to-day lives, at home, at school, and at work. We solve problems every day without really thinking about how we solve them. For example: it’s raining and you need to go to the store. What do you do? There are lots of possible solutions. Take your umbrella and walk. If you don't want to get wet, you can drive, or take the bus. You might decide to call a friend for a ride, or you might decide to go to the store another day. There is no right way to solve this problem and different people will solve it differently.

Problem solving is the process of identifying a problem, developing possible solution paths, and taking the appropriate course of action.

Why is problem solving important? Good problem solving skills empower you not only in your personal life but are critical in your professional life. In the current fast-changing global economy, employers often identify everyday problem solving as crucial to the success of their organizations. For employees, problem solving can be used to develop practical and creative solutions, and to show independence and initiative to employers.

Throughout this case study you will be asked to jot down your thoughts in idea logs. These idea logs are used for reflection on concepts and for answering short questions. When you click on the "Next" button, your responses will be saved for that page. If you happen to close the webpage, you will lose your work on the page you were on, but previous pages will be saved. At the end of the case study, click on the "Finish and Export to PDF" button to acknowledge completion of the case study and receive a PDF document of your idea logs.

What Does Problem Solving Look Like?

The ability to solve problems is a skill, and just like any other skill, the more you practice, the better you get. So how exactly do you practice problem solving? Learning about different problem solving strategies and when to use them will give you a good start. Problem solving is a process. Most strategies provide steps that help you identify the problem and choose the best solution. There are two basic types of strategies: algorithmic and heuristic.

Algorithmic strategies are traditional step-by-step guides to solving problems. They are great for solving math problems (in algebra: multiply and divide, then add or subtract) or for helping us remember the correct order of things (a mnemonic such as “Spring Forward, Fall Back” to remember which way the clock changes for daylight saving time, or “Righty Tighty, Lefty Loosey” to remember what direction to turn bolts and screws). Algorithms are best when there is a single path to the correct solution.

But what do you do when there is no single solution for your problem? Heuristic methods are general guides used to identify possible solutions. A popular one that is easy to remember is IDEAL [ Bransford & Stein, 1993 ] :

• I dentify the problem
• D efine the context of the problem
• E xplore possible strategies
• A ct on best solution

IDEAL is just one problem solving strategy. Building a toolbox of problem solving strategies will improve your problem solving skills. With practice, you will be able to recognize and use multiple strategies to solve complex problems.

Watch the video

What is the best way to get a peanut out of a tube that cannot be moved? Watch a chimpanzee solve this problem in the video below [ Geert Stienissen, 2010 ].

[PDF transcript]

Describe the series of steps you think the chimpanzee used to solve this problem.

• [Page 2: What does Problem Solving Look Like?] Describe the series of steps you think the chimpanzee used to solve this problem.

Think of an everyday problem you've encountered recently and describe your steps for solving it.

• [Page 2: What does Problem Solving Look Like?] Think of an everyday problem you've encountered recently and describe your steps for solving it.

Developing Problem Solving Processes

Problem solving is a process that uses steps to solve problems. But what does that really mean? Let's break it down and start building our toolbox of problem solving strategies.

What is the first step of solving any problem? The first step is to recognize that there is a problem and identify the right cause of the problem. This may sound obvious, but similar problems can arise from different events, and the real issue may not always be apparent. To really solve the problem, it's important to find out what started it all. This is called identifying the root cause .

Example: You and your classmates have been working long hours on a project in the school's workshop. The next afternoon, you try to use your student ID card to access the workshop, but discover that your magnetic strip has been demagnetized. Since the card was a couple of years old, you chalk it up to wear and tear and get a new ID card. Later that same week you learn that several of your classmates had the same problem! After a little investigation, you discover that a strong magnet was stored underneath a workbench in the workshop. The magnet was the root cause of the demagnetized student ID cards.

The best way to identify the root cause of the problem is to ask questions and gather information. If you have a vague problem, investigating facts is more productive than guessing a solution. Ask yourself questions about the problem. What do you know about the problem? What do you not know? When was the last time it worked correctly? What has changed since then? Can you diagram the process into separate steps? Where in the process is the problem occurring? Be curious, ask questions, gather facts, and make logical deductions rather than assumptions.

Watch Adam Savage from Mythbusters, describe his problem solving process [ ForaTv, 2010 ]. As you watch this section of the video, try to identify the questions he asks and the different strategies he uses.

Adam Savage shared many of his problem solving processes. List the ones you think are the five most important. Your list may be different from other people in your class—that's ok!

• [Page 3: Developing Problem Solving Processes] Adam Savage shared many of his problem solving processes. List the ones you think are the five most important.

“The ability to ask the right question is more than half the battle of finding the answer.” — Thomas J. Watson , founder of IBM

Voices From the Field: Solving Problems

In manufacturing facilities and machine shops, everyone on the floor is expected to know how to identify problems and find solutions. Today's employers look for the following skills in new employees: to analyze a problem logically, formulate a solution, and effectively communicate with others.

In this video, industry professionals share their own problem solving processes, the problem solving expectations of their employees, and an example of how a problem was solved.

Meet the Partners:

• Taconic High School in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, is a comprehensive, fully accredited high school with special programs in Health Technology, Manufacturing Technology, and Work-Based Learning.
• Berkshire Community College in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, prepares its students with applied manufacturing technical skills, providing hands-on experience at industrial laboratories and manufacturing facilities, and instructing them in current technologies.
• H.C. Starck in Newton, Massachusetts, specializes in processing and manufacturing technology metals, such as tungsten, niobium, and tantalum. In almost 100 years of experience, they hold over 900 patents, and continue to innovate and develop new products.
• Nypro Healthcare in Devens, Massachusetts, specializes in precision injection-molded healthcare products. They are committed to good manufacturing processes including lean manufacturing and process validation.

Making Decisions

Now that you have a couple problem solving strategies in your toolbox, let's practice. In this exercise, you are given a scenario and you will be asked to decide what steps you would take to identify and solve the problem.

Scenario: You are a new employee and have just finished your training. As your first project, you have been assigned the milling of several additional components for a regular customer. Together, you and your trainer, Bill, set up for the first run. Checking your paperwork, you gather the tools and materials on the list. As you are mounting the materials on the table, you notice that you didn't grab everything and hurriedly grab a few more items from one of the bins. Once the material is secured on the CNC table, you load tools into the tool carousel in the order listed on the tool list and set the fixture offsets.

Bill tells you that since this is a rerun of a job several weeks ago, the CAD/CAM model has already been converted to CNC G-code. Bill helps you download the code to the CNC machine. He gives you the go-ahead and leaves to check on another employee. You decide to start your first run.

What problems did you observe in the video?

• [Page 5: Making Decisions] What problems did you observe in the video?
• What do you do next?
• Try to fix it yourself.
• Ask your trainer for help.

As you are cleaning up, you think about what happened and wonder why it happened. You try to create a mental picture of what happened. You are not exactly sure what the end mill hit, but it looked like it might have hit the dowel pin. You wonder if you grabbed the correct dowel pins from the bins earlier.

You can think of two possible next steps. You can recheck the dowel pin length to make sure it is the correct length, or do a dry run using the CNC single step or single block function with the spindle empty to determine what actually happened.

• Check the dowel pins.
• Use the single step/single block function to determine what happened.

You notice that your trainer, Bill, is still on the floor and decide to ask him for help. You describe the problem to him. Bill asks if you know what the end mill ran into. You explain that you are not sure but you think it was the dowel pin. Bill reminds you that it is important to understand what happened so you can fix the correct problem. He suggests that you start all over again and begin with a dry run using the single step/single block function, with the spindle empty, to determine what it hit. Or, since it happened at the end, he mentions that you can also check the G-code to make sure the Z-axis is raised before returning to the home position.

• Run the single step/single block function.
• Edit the G-code to raise the Z-axis.

You finish cleaning up and check the CNC for any damage. Luckily, everything looks good. You check your paperwork and gather the components and materials again. You look at the dowel pins you used earlier, and discover that they are not the right length. As you go to grab the correct dowel pins, you have to search though several bins. For the first time, you are aware of the mess - it looks like the dowel pins and other items have not been put into the correctly labeled bins. You spend 30 minutes straightening up the bins and looking for the correct dowel pins.

Finally finding them, you finish setting up. You load tools into the tool carousel in the order listed on the tool list and set the fixture offsets. Just to make sure, you use the CNC single step/single block function, to do a dry run of the part. Everything looks good! You are ready to create your first part. The first component is done, and, as you admire your success, you notice that the part feels hotter than it should.

You wonder why? You go over the steps of the process to mentally figure out what could be causing the residual heat. You wonder if there is a problem with the CNC's coolant system or if the problem is in the G-code.

• Look at the G-code.

After thinking about the problem, you decide that maybe there's something wrong with the setup. First, you clean up the damaged materials and remove the broken tool. You check the CNC machine carefully for any damage. Luckily, everything looks good. It is time to start over again from the beginning.

You again check your paperwork and gather the tools and materials on the setup sheet. After securing the new materials, you use the CNC single step/single block function with the spindle empty, to do a dry run of the part. You watch carefully to see if you can figure out what happened. It looks to you like the spindle barely misses hitting the dowel pin. You determine that the end mill was broken when it hit the dowel pin while returning to the start position.

After conducting a dry run using the single step/single block function, you determine that the end mill was damaged when it hit the dowel pin on its return to the home position. You discuss your options with Bill. Together, you decide the best thing to do would be to edit the G-code and raise the Z-axis before returning to home. You open the CNC control program and edit the G-code. Just to make sure, you use the CNC single step/single block function, to do another dry run of the part. You are ready to create your first part. It works. You first part is completed. Only four more to go.

As you are cleaning up, you notice that the components are hotter than you expect and the end mill looks more worn than it should be. It dawns on you that while you were milling the component, the coolant didn't turn on. You wonder if it is a software problem in the G-code or hardware problem with the CNC machine.

It's the end of the day and you decide to finish the rest of the components in the morning.

• You decide to look at the G-code in the morning.
• You leave a note on the machine, just in case.

You decide that the best thing to do would be to edit the G-code and raise the Z-axis of the spindle before it returns to home. You open the CNC control program and edit the G-code.

While editing the G-code to raise the Z-axis, you notice that the coolant is turned off at the beginning of the code and at the end of the code. The coolant command error caught your attention because your coworker, Mark, mentioned having a similar issue during lunch. You change the coolant command to turn the mist on.

• You decide to talk with your supervisor.
• You discuss what happened with a coworker over lunch.

As you reflect on the residual heat problem, you think about the machining process and the factors that could have caused the issue. You try to think of anything and everything that could be causing the issue. Are you using the correct tool for the specified material? Are you using the specified material? Is it running at the correct speed? Is there enough coolant? Are there chips getting in the way?

Wait, was the coolant turned on? As you replay what happened in your mind, you wonder why the coolant wasn't turned on. You decide to look at the G-code to find out what is going on.

From the milling machine computer, you open the CNC G-code. You notice that there are no coolant commands. You add them in and on the next run, the coolant mist turns on and the residual heat issues is gone. Now, its on to creating the rest of the parts.

Have you ever used brainstorming to solve a problem? Chances are, you've probably have, even if you didn't realize it.

You notice that your trainer, Bill, is on the floor and decide to ask him for help. You describe the problem with the end mill breaking, and how you discovered that items are not being returned to the correctly labeled bins. You think this caused you to grab the incorrect length dowel pins on your first run. You have sorted the bins and hope that the mess problem is fixed. You then go on to tell Bill about the residual heat issue with the completed part.

Together, you go to the milling machine. Bill shows you how to check the oil and coolant levels. Everything looks good at the machine level. Next, on the CNC computer, you open the CNC G-code. While looking at the code, Bill points out that there are no coolant commands. Bill adds them in and when you rerun the program, it works.

Bill is glad you mentioned the problem to him. You are the third worker to mention G-code issues over the last week. You noticed the coolant problems in your G-code, John noticed a Z-axis issue in his G-code, and Sam had issues with both the Z-axis and the coolant. Chances are, there is a bigger problem and Bill will need to investigate the root cause .

Talking with Bill, you discuss the best way to fix the problem. Bill suggests editing the G-code to raise the Z-axis of the spindle before it returns to its home position. You open the CNC control program and edit the G-code. Following the setup sheet, you re-setup the job and use the CNC single step/single block function, to do another dry run of the part. Everything looks good, so you run the job again and create the first part. It works. Since you need four of each component, you move on to creating the rest of them before cleaning up and leaving for the day.

It's a new day and you have new components to create. As you are setting up, you go in search of some short dowel pins. You discover that the bins are a mess and components have not been put away in the correctly labeled bins. You wonder if this was the cause of yesterday's problem. As you reorganize the bins and straighten up the mess, you decide to mention the mess issue to Bill in your afternoon meeting.

You describe the bin mess and using the incorrect length dowels to Bill. He is glad you mentioned the problem to him. You are not the first person to mention similar issues with tools and parts not being put away correctly. Chances are there is a bigger safety issue here that needs to be addressed in the next staff meeting.

In any workplace, following proper safety and cleanup procedures is always important. This is especially crucial in manufacturing where people are constantly working with heavy, costly and sometimes dangerous equipment. When issues and problems arise, it is important that they are addressed in an efficient and timely manner. Effective communication is an important tool because it can prevent problems from recurring, avoid injury to personnel, reduce rework and scrap, and ultimately, reduce cost, and save money.

You now know that the end mill was damaged when it hit the dowel pin. It seems to you that the easiest thing to do would be to edit the G-code and raise the Z-axis position of the spindle before it returns to the home position. You open the CNC control program and edit the G-code, raising the Z-axis. Starting over, you follow the setup sheet and re-setup the job. This time, you use the CNC single step/single block function, to do another dry run of the part. Everything looks good, so you run the job again and create the first part.

At the end of the day, you are reviewing your progress with your trainer, Bill. After you describe the day's events, he reminds you to always think about safety and the importance of following work procedures. He decides to bring the issue up in the next morning meeting as a reminder to everyone.

In any workplace, following proper procedures (especially those that involve safety) is always important. This is especially crucial in manufacturing where people are constantly working with heavy, costly, and sometimes dangerous equipment. When issues and problems arise, it is important that they are addressed in an efficient and timely manner. Effective communication is an important tool because it can prevent problems from recurring, avoid injury to personnel, reduce rework and scrap, and ultimately, reduce cost, and save money. One tool to improve communication is the morning meeting or huddle.

The next morning, you check the G-code to determine what is wrong with the coolant. You notice that the coolant is turned off at the beginning of the code and also at the end of the code. This is strange. You change the G-code to turn the coolant on at the beginning of the run and off at the end. This works and you create the rest of the parts.

Throughout the day, you keep wondering what caused the G-code error. At lunch, you mention the G-code error to your coworker, John. John is not surprised. He said that he encountered a similar problem earlier this week. You decide to talk with your supervisor the next time you see him.

You are in luck. You see your supervisor by the door getting ready to leave. You hurry over to talk with him. You start off by telling him about how you asked Bill for help. Then you tell him there was a problem and the end mill was damaged. You describe the coolant problem in the G-code. Oh, and by the way, John has seen a similar problem before.

Your supervisor doesn't seem overly concerned, errors happen. He tells you "Good job, I am glad you were able to fix the issue." You are not sure whether your supervisor understood your explanation of what happened or that it had happened before.

The challenge of communicating in the workplace is learning how to share your ideas and concerns. If you need to tell your supervisor that something is not going well, it is important to remember that timing, preparation, and attitude are extremely important.

It is the end of your shift, but you want to let the next shift know that the coolant didn't turn on. You do not see your trainer or supervisor around. You decide to leave a note for the next shift so they are aware of the possible coolant problem. You write a sticky note and leave it on the monitor of the CNC control system.

How effective do you think this solution was? Did it address the problem?

In this scenario, you discovered several problems with the G-code that need to be addressed. When issues and problems arise, it is important that they are addressed in an efficient and timely manner. Effective communication is an important tool because it can prevent problems from recurring and avoid injury to personnel. The challenge of communicating in the workplace is learning how and when to share your ideas and concerns. If you need to tell your co-workers or supervisor that there is a problem, it is important to remember that timing and the method of communication are extremely important.

You are able to fix the coolant problem in the G-code. While you are glad that the problem is fixed, you are worried about why it happened in the first place. It is important to remember that if a problem keeps reappearing, you may not be fixing the right problem. You may only be addressing the symptoms.

You decide to talk to your trainer. Bill is glad you mentioned the problem to him. You are the third worker to mention G-code issues over the last week. You noticed the coolant problems in your G-code, John noticed a Z-axis issue in his G-code, and Sam had issues with both the Z-axis and the coolant. Chances are, there is a bigger problem and Bill will need to investigate the root cause .

Over lunch, you ask your coworkers about the G-code problem and what may be causing the error. Several people mention having similar problems but do not know the cause.

You have now talked to three coworkers who have all experienced similar coolant G-code problems. You make a list of who had the problem, when they had the problem, and what each person told you.

When you see your supervisor later that afternoon, you are ready to talk with him. You describe the problem you had with your component and the damaged bit. You then go on to tell him about talking with Bill and discovering the G-code issue. You show him your notes on your coworkers' coolant issues, and explain that you think there might be a bigger problem.

You supervisor thanks you for your initiative in identifying this problem. It sounds like there is a bigger problem and he will need to investigate the root cause. He decides to call a team huddle to discuss the issue, gather more information, and talk with the team about the importance of communication.

Root Cause Analysis

Root cause analysis ( RCA ) is a method of problem solving that identifies the underlying causes of an issue. Root cause analysis helps people answer the question of why the problem occurred in the first place. RCA uses clear cut steps in its associated tools, like the "5 Whys Analysis" and the "Cause and Effect Diagram," to identify the origin of the problem, so that you can:

• Determine what happened.
• Determine why it happened.
• Fix the problem so it won’t happen again.

RCA works under the idea that systems and events are connected. An action in one area triggers an action in another, and another, and so on. By tracing back these actions, you can discover where the problem started and how it developed into the problem you're now facing. Root cause analysis can prevent problems from recurring, reduce injury to personnel, reduce rework and scrap, and ultimately, reduce cost and save money. There are many different RCA techniques available to determine the root cause of a problem. These are just a few:

• Root Cause Analysis Tools
• 5 Whys Analysis
• Fishbone or Cause and Effect Diagram
• Pareto Analysis

How Huddles Work

Communication is a vital part of any setting where people work together. Effective communication helps employees and managers form efficient teams. It builds trusts between employees and management, and reduces unnecessary competition because each employee knows how their part fits in the larger goal.

One tool that management can use to promote communication in the workplace is the huddle . Just like football players on the field, a huddle is a short meeting where everyone is standing in a circle. A daily team huddle ensures that team members are aware of changes to the schedule, reiterated problems and safety issues, and how their work impacts one another. When done right, huddles create collaboration, communication, and accountability to results. Impromptu huddles can be used to gather information on a specific issue and get each team member's input.

The most important thing to remember about huddles is that they are short, lasting no more than 10 minutes, and their purpose is to communicate and identify. In essence, a huddle’s purpose is to identify priorities, communicate essential information, and discover roadblocks to productivity.

Who uses huddles? Many industries and companies use daily huddles. At first thought, most people probably think of hospitals and their daily patient update meetings, but lots of managers use daily meetings to engage their employees. Here are a few examples:

• Brian Scudamore, CEO of 1-800-Got-Junk? , uses the daily huddle as an operational tool to take the pulse of his employees and as a motivational tool. Watch a morning huddle meeting .
• Fusion OEM, an outsourced manufacturing and production company. What do employees take away from the daily huddle meeting .
• Biz-Group, a performance consulting group. Tips for a successful huddle .

Brainstorming

One tool that can be useful in problem solving is brainstorming . Brainstorming is a creativity technique designed to generate a large number of ideas for the solution to a problem. The method was first popularized in 1953 by Alex Faickney Osborn in the book Applied Imagination . The goal is to come up with as many ideas as you can in a fixed amount of time. Although brainstorming is best done in a group, it can be done individually. Like most problem solving techniques, brainstorming is a process.

• Define a clear objective.
• Have an agreed a time limit.
• During the brainstorming session, write down everything that comes to mind, even if the idea sounds crazy.
• If one idea leads to another, write down that idea too.
• Combine and refine ideas into categories of solutions.
• Assess and analyze each idea as a potential solution.

When used during problem solving, brainstorming can offer companies new ways of encouraging staff to think creatively and improve production. Brainstorming relies on team members' diverse experiences, adding to the richness of ideas explored. This means that you often find better solutions to the problems. Team members often welcome the opportunity to contribute ideas and can provide buy-in for the solution chosen—after all, they are more likely to be committed to an approach if they were involved in its development. What's more, because brainstorming is fun, it helps team members bond.

• Watch Peggy Morgan Collins, a marketing executive at Power Curve Communications discuss How to Stimulate Effective Brainstorming .
• Watch Kim Obbink, CEO of Filter Digital, a digital content company, and her team share their top five rules for How to Effectively Generate Ideas .

Importance of Good Communication and Problem Description

Communication is one of the most frequent activities we engage in on a day-to-day basis. At some point, we have all felt that we did not effectively communicate an idea as we would have liked. The key to effective communication is preparation. Rather than attempting to haphazardly improvise something, take a few minutes and think about what you want say and how you will say it. If necessary, write yourself a note with the key points or ideas in the order you want to discuss them. The notes can act as a reminder or guide when you talk to your supervisor.

Tips for clear communication of an issue:

• Provide a clear summary of your problem. Start at the beginning, give relevant facts, timelines, and examples.
• Avoid including your opinion or personal attacks in your explanation.
• Avoid using words like "always" or "never," which can give the impression that you are exaggerating the problem.
• If this is an ongoing problem and you have collected documentation, give it to your supervisor once you have finished describing the problem.
• Remember to listen to what's said in return; communication is a two-way process.

Not all communication is spoken. Body language is nonverbal communication that includes your posture, your hands and whether you make eye contact. These gestures can be subtle or overt, but most importantly they communicate meaning beyond what is said. When having a conversation, pay attention to how you stand. A stiff position with arms crossed over your chest may imply that you are being defensive even if your words state otherwise. Shoving your hands in your pockets when speaking could imply that you have something to hide. Be wary of using too many hand gestures because this could distract listeners from your message.

The challenge of communicating in the workplace is learning how and when to share your ideas or concerns. If you need to tell your supervisor or co-worker about something that is not going well, keep in mind that good timing and good attitude will go a long way toward helping your case.

Like all skills, effective communication needs to be practiced. Toastmasters International is perhaps the best known public speaking organization in the world. Toastmasters is open to anyone who wish to improve their speaking skills and is willing to put in the time and effort to do so. To learn more, visit Toastmasters International .

Methods of Communication

Communication of problems and issues in any workplace is important, particularly when safety is involved. It is therefore crucial in manufacturing where people are constantly working with heavy, costly, and sometimes dangerous equipment. As issues and problems arise, they need to be addressed in an efficient and timely manner. Effective communication is an important skill because it can prevent problems from recurring, avoid injury to personnel, reduce rework and scrap, and ultimately, reduce cost and save money.

There are many different ways to communicate: in person, by phone, via email, or written. There is no single method that fits all communication needs, each one has its time and place.

In person: In the workplace, face-to-face meetings should be utilized whenever possible. Being able to see the person you need to speak to face-to-face gives you instant feedback and helps you gauge their response through their body language. Be careful of getting sidetracked in conversation when you need to communicate a problem.

Email: Email has become the communication standard for most businesses. It can be accessed from almost anywhere and is great for things that don’t require an immediate response. Email is a great way to communicate non-urgent items to large amounts of people or just your team members. One thing to remember is that most people's inboxes are flooded with emails every day and unless they are hyper vigilant about checking everything, important items could be missed. For issues that are urgent, especially those around safety, email is not always be the best solution.

Phone: Phone calls are more personal and direct than email. They allow us to communicate in real time with another person, no matter where they are. Not only can talking prevent miscommunication, it promotes a two-way dialogue. You don’t have to worry about your words being altered or the message arriving on time. However, mobile phone use and the workplace don't always mix. In particular, using mobile phones in a manufacturing setting can lead to a variety of problems, cause distractions, and lead to serious injury.

Written: Written communication is appropriate when detailed instructions are required, when something needs to be documented, or when the person is too far away to easily speak with over the phone or in person.

There is no "right" way to communicate, but you should be aware of how and when to use the appropriate form of communication for your situation. When deciding the best way to communicate with a co-worker or manager, put yourself in their shoes, and think about how you would want to learn about the issue. Also, consider what information you would need to know to better understand the issue. Use your good judgment of the situation and be considerate of your listener's viewpoint.

Did you notice any other potential problems in the previous exercise?

• [Page 6:] Did you notice any other potential problems in the previous exercise?

Summary of Strategies

In this exercise, you were given a scenario in which there was a problem with a component you were creating on a CNC machine. You were then asked how you wanted to proceed. Depending on your path through this exercise, you might have found an easy solution and fixed it yourself, asked for help and worked with your trainer, or discovered an ongoing G-code problem that was bigger than you initially thought.

When issues and problems arise, it is important that they are addressed in an efficient and timely manner. Communication is an important tool because it can prevent problems from recurring, avoid injury to personnel, reduce rework and scrap, and ultimately, reduce cost, and save money. Although, each path in this exercise ended with a description of a problem solving tool for your toolbox, the first step is always to identify the problem and define the context in which it happened.

There are several strategies that can be used to identify the root cause of a problem. Root cause analysis (RCA) is a method of problem solving that helps people answer the question of why the problem occurred. RCA uses a specific set of steps, with associated tools like the “5 Why Analysis" or the “Cause and Effect Diagram,” to identify the origin of the problem, so that you can:

Once the underlying cause is identified and the scope of the issue defined, the next step is to explore possible strategies to fix the problem.

If you are not sure how to fix the problem, it is okay to ask for help. Problem solving is a process and a skill that is learned with practice. It is important to remember that everyone makes mistakes and that no one knows everything. Life is about learning. It is okay to ask for help when you don’t have the answer. When you collaborate to solve problems you improve workplace communication and accelerates finding solutions as similar problems arise.

One tool that can be useful for generating possible solutions is brainstorming . Brainstorming is a technique designed to generate a large number of ideas for the solution to a problem. The method was first popularized in 1953 by Alex Faickney Osborn in the book Applied Imagination. The goal is to come up with as many ideas as you can, in a fixed amount of time. Although brainstorming is best done in a group, it can be done individually.

Depending on your path through the exercise, you may have discovered that a couple of your coworkers had experienced similar problems. This should have been an indicator that there was a larger problem that needed to be addressed.

In any workplace, communication of problems and issues (especially those that involve safety) is always important. This is especially crucial in manufacturing where people are constantly working with heavy, costly, and sometimes dangerous equipment. When issues and problems arise, it is important that they be addressed in an efficient and timely manner. Effective communication is an important tool because it can prevent problems from recurring, avoid injury to personnel, reduce rework and scrap, and ultimately, reduce cost and save money.

One strategy for improving communication is the huddle . Just like football players on the field, a huddle is a short meeting with everyone standing in a circle. A daily team huddle is a great way to ensure that team members are aware of changes to the schedule, any problems or safety issues are identified and that team members are aware of how their work impacts one another. When done right, huddles create collaboration, communication, and accountability to results. Impromptu huddles can be used to gather information on a specific issue and get each team member's input.

To learn more about different problem solving strategies, choose an option below. These strategies accompany the outcomes of different decision paths in the problem solving exercise.

• View Problem Solving Strategies Select a strategy below... Root Cause Analysis How Huddles Work Brainstorming Importance of Good Problem Description Methods of Communication

Communication is one of the most frequent activities we engage in on a day-to-day basis. At some point, we have all felt that we did not effectively communicate an idea as we would have liked. The key to effective communication is preparation. Rather than attempting to haphazardly improvise something, take a few minutes and think about what you want say and how you will say it. If necessary, write yourself a note with the key points or ideas in the order you want to discuss them. The notes can act as a reminder or guide during your meeting.

• Provide a clear summary of the problem. Start at the beginning, give relevant facts, timelines, and examples.

In person: In the workplace, face-to-face meetings should be utilized whenever possible. Being able to see the person you need to speak to face-to-face gives you instant feedback and helps you gauge their response in their body language. Be careful of getting sidetracked in conversation when you need to communicate a problem.

There is no "right" way to communicate, but you should be aware of how and when to use the appropriate form of communication for the situation. When deciding the best way to communicate with a co-worker or manager, put yourself in their shoes, and think about how you would want to learn about the issue. Also, consider what information you would need to know to better understand the issue. Use your good judgment of the situation and be considerate of your listener's viewpoint.

"Never try to solve all the problems at once — make them line up for you one-by-one.” — Richard Sloma

Problem Solving: An Important Job Skill

Problem solving improves efficiency and communication on the shop floor. It increases a company's efficiency and profitability, so it's one of the top skills employers look for when hiring new employees. Recent industry surveys show that employers consider soft skills, such as problem solving, as critical to their business’s success.

The 2011 survey, "Boiling Point? The skills gap in U.S. manufacturing ," polled over a thousand manufacturing executives who reported that the number one skill deficiency among their current employees is problem solving, which makes it difficult for their companies to adapt to the changing needs of the industry.

In this video, industry professionals discuss their expectations and present tips for new employees joining the manufacturing workforce.

Quick Summary

• [Quick Summary: Question1] What are two things you learned in this case study?
• What question(s) do you still have about the case study?
• [Quick Summary: Question2] What question(s) do you still have about the case study?
• Is there anything you would like to learn more about with respect to this case study?
• [Quick Summary: Question3] Is there anything you would like to learn more about with respect to this case study?

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The SkillsYouNeed Guide to Interpersonal Skills

Making decisions and solving problems are two key areas in life, whether you are at home or at work. Whatever you’re doing, and wherever you are, you are faced with countless decisions and problems, both small and large, every day.

Many decisions and problems are so small that we may not even notice them. Even small decisions, however, can be overwhelming to some people. They may come to a halt as they consider their dilemma and try to decide what to do.

Small and Large Decisions

In your day-to-day life you're likely to encounter numerous 'small decisions', including, for example:

Tea or coffee?

What shall I have in my sandwich? Or should I have a salad instead today?

What shall I wear today?

Larger decisions may occur less frequently but may include:

Should we repaint the kitchen? If so, what colour?

Should we relocate?

Should I propose to my partner? Do I really want to spend the rest of my life with him/her?

These decisions, and others like them, may take considerable time and effort to make.

The relationship between decision-making and problem-solving is complex. Decision-making is perhaps best thought of as a key part of problem-solving: one part of the overall process.

Our approach at Skills You Need is to set out a framework to help guide you through the decision-making process. You won’t always need to use the whole framework, or even use it at all, but you may find it useful if you are a bit ‘stuck’ and need something to help you make a difficult decision.

Decision Making

Effective Decision-Making

This page provides information about ways of making a decision, including basing it on logic or emotion (‘gut feeling’). It also explains what can stop you making an effective decision, including too much or too little information, and not really caring about the outcome.

A Decision-Making Framework

This page sets out one possible framework for decision-making.

The framework described is quite extensive, and may seem quite formal. But it is also a helpful process to run through in a briefer form, for smaller problems, as it will help you to make sure that you really do have all the information that you need.

Problem Solving

Introduction to Problem-Solving

This page provides a general introduction to the idea of problem-solving. It explores the idea of goals (things that you want to achieve) and barriers (things that may prevent you from achieving your goals), and explains the problem-solving process at a broad level.

The first stage in solving any problem is to identify it, and then break it down into its component parts. Even the biggest, most intractable-seeming problems, can become much more manageable if they are broken down into smaller parts. This page provides some advice about techniques you can use to do so.

Sometimes, the possible options to address your problem are obvious. At other times, you may need to involve others, or think more laterally to find alternatives. This page explains some principles, and some tools and techniques to help you do so.

Having generated solutions, you need to decide which one to take, which is where decision-making meets problem-solving. But once decided, there is another step: to deliver on your decision, and then see if your chosen solution works. This page helps you through this process.

‘Social’ problems are those that we encounter in everyday life, including money trouble, problems with other people, health problems and crime. These problems, like any others, are best solved using a framework to identify the problem, work out the options for addressing it, and then deciding which option to use.

This page provides more information about the key skills needed for practical problem-solving in real life.

Further Reading from Skills You Need

The Skills You Need Guide to Interpersonal Skills eBooks.

Develop your interpersonal skills with our series of eBooks. Learn about and improve your communication skills, tackle conflict resolution, mediate in difficult situations, and develop your emotional intelligence.

Guiding you through the key skills needed in life

As always at Skills You Need, our approach to these key skills is to provide practical ways to manage the process, and to develop your skills.

Neither problem-solving nor decision-making is an intrinsically difficult process and we hope you will find our pages useful in developing your skills.

Start with: Decision Making Problem Solving

See also: Improving Communication Interpersonal Communication Skills Building Confidence

Self-Esteem

It’s ok you can’t solve every problem, trying to “fix" everything can leave you feeling like a failure..

Updated May 10, 2024 | Reviewed by Ray Parker

• What Is Self-Esteem?
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• Your intrinsic value is more than what you can do for other people.

You are still worthwhile and can be successful, even if you don’t have all the solutions.

• Consider which decision will make you feel you’ve stayed true to your values.

In coaching others, I often discuss problem-solving strategies to help individuals think creatively and consider many options when they are faced with challenging situations.

Problem solving 1-2 includes the following:

• Define the problem, identify obstacles, and set realistic goals .
• Generate a variety of alternative solutions to overcome obstacles identified.
• Choose which idea has the highest likelihood to achieve the goal.
• Try out the solution in real-life and see if it worked or not.

Problem-solving strategies can be helpful in many situations. Thinking creatively and testing out different potential solutions can help you come up with alternative ways of solving your problems.

While many problems can be solved, there are also situations in which there is no “perfect” solution or in which what seems to be the best solution still leaves you feeling unsatisfied or like you’re not doing enough.

I encourage you to increase your comfort around the following three truths:

1. You can’t always solve everyone else’s problems.

2. You can’t always solve all of your own problems.

3. You are not a failure if you can’t solve every problem.

You can’t always solve everyone else’s problems.

When someone around you needs help, do you feel compelled to find solutions to their problem?

Are you seen as the problem solver at your job or in your close relationships?

Does it feel uncomfortable for you to listen to someone tell you about a problem and not offer solutions?

There are times when others come to you because they know you can help them solve a problem. There are also times when the other person is coming to you not for a solution to their problem, but for support, empathy, and a listening ear.

Your relationships may be negatively impacted if others feel that you don’t fully listen and only try to “fix” everything for them. While this may feel like a noble act, it may lead the other person to feel like they have failed or that you think they are unable to solve their own problems.

Consider approaching such situations with curiosity by saying to the other person:

• As you share this information with me, tell me how I can best support you.
• What would be most helpful right now? Are you looking for an empathetic ear or want to brainstorm potential next steps?
• I want to be sure I am as helpful as I can be right now; what are you hoping to get out of our conversation?

You can’t always solve all of your own problems.

We are taught from a young age that problems have a solution. For example, while solving word problems in math class may not have been your favorite thing to do, you knew there was ultimately a “right” answer. Many times, the real world is much more complex, and many of the problems that you face do not have clear or “right” answers.

You may often be faced with finding solutions that do the most good for the most amount of people, but you know that others may still be left out or feel unsatisfied with the result.

Your beliefs about yourself, other people, and the world can sometimes help you make decisions in such circumstances. You may ask for help from others. Some may consider their faith or spirituality for guidance. While others may consider philosophical theories.

Knowing that there often isn’t a “perfect” solution, you may consider asking yourself some of the following questions:

• What’s the healthiest decision I can make? The healthiest decision for yourself and for those who will be impacted.
• Imagine yourself 10 years in the future, looking back on the situation: What do you think the future-you would encourage you to do?
• What would a wise person do?
• What decision will allow you to feel like you’ve stayed true to your values?

You are not a failure if you can’t solve all of the problems.

If you have internalized feeling like you need to be able to solve every problem that comes across your path, you may feel like a failure each time you don’t.

It’s impossible to solve every problem.

Your intrinsic value is more than what you can do for other people. You have value because you are you.

Consider creating more realistic and adaptive thoughts around your ability to help others and solve problems.

Some examples include:

• I am capable, even without solving all of the problems.
• I am worthwhile, even if I’m not perfect.
• What I do for others does not define my worth.
• In living my values, I know I’ve done my best.

I hope you utilize the information above to consider how you can coach yourself the next time you:

• Start to solve someone else’s problem without being asked.
• Feel stuck in deciding the best next steps.
• Judge yourself negatively.

1. D'zurilla, T. J., & Goldfried, M. R. (1971). Problem solving and behavior modification. Journal of abnormal psychology, 78(1), 107.

2. D’Zurilla, T. J., & Nezu, A. M. (2010). Problem-solving therapy. Handbook of cognitive-behavioral therapies, 3(1), 197-225.

Julie Radico, Psy.D. ABPP, is a board-certified clinical psychologist and coauthor of You Will Get Through This: A Mental Health First-Aid Kit.

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At any moment, someone’s aggravating behavior or our own bad luck can set us off on an emotional spiral that threatens to derail our entire day. Here’s how we can face our triggers with less reactivity so that we can get on with our lives.

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What is problem solving and why is it important

By Wayne Stottler , Kepner-Tregoe

• Problem Solving & Decision Making Over time, developing and refining problem solving skills provides the ability to solve increasingly complex problems Learn More

For over 60 years, Kepner-Tregoe has been helping companies across industries and geographies to develop and mature their problem-solving capabilities through KT’s industry leading approach to training and the implementation of best practice processes. Considering that problem solving is a part of almost every person’s daily life (both at home and in the workplace), it is surprising how often we are asked to explain what problem solving is and why it is important.

Problem solving is at the core of human evolution. It is the methods we use to understand what is happening in our environment, identify things we want to change and then figure out the things that need to be done to create the desired outcome. Problem solving is the source of all new inventions, social and cultural evolution, and the basis for market based economies. It is the basis for continuous improvement, communication and learning.

If this problem-solving thing is so important to daily life, what is it?

Problem-solving is the process of observing what is going on in your environment; identifying things that could be changed or improved; diagnosing why the current state is the way it is and the factors and forces that influence it; developing approaches and alternatives to influence change; making decisions about which alternative to select; taking action to implement the changes; and observing impact of those actions in the environment.

Each step in the problem-solving process employs skills and methods that contribute to the overall effectiveness of influencing change and determine the level of problem complexity that can be addressed. Humans learn how to solve simple problems from a very early age (learning to eat, make coordinated movements and communicate) – and as a person goes through life problem-solving skills are refined, matured and become more sophisticated (enabling them to solve more difficult problems).

Problem-solving is important both to individuals and organizations because it enables us to exert control over our environment.

Fixing things that are broken

Some things wear out and break over time, others are flawed from day-1. Personal and business environments are full of things, activities, interactions and processes that are broken or not operating in the way they are desired to work. Problem-solving gives us a mechanism for identifying these things, figuring out why they are broken and determining a course of action to fix them.

Addressing risk

Humans have learned to identify trends and developed an awareness of cause-and-effect relationships in their environment. These skills not only enable us to fix things when they break but also anticipate what may happen in the future (based on past-experience and current events). Problem-solving can be applied to the anticipated future events and used to enable action in the present to influence the likelihood of the event occurring and/or alter the impact if the event does occur.

Improving performance

Individuals and organizations do not exist in isolation in the environment. There is a complex and ever-changing web of relationships that exist and as a result, the actions of one person will often have either a direct impact on others or an indirect impact by changing the environment dynamics. These interdependencies enable humans to work together to solve more complex problems but they also create a force that requires everyone to continuously improve performance to adapt to improvements by others. Problem-solving helps us understand relationships and implement the changes and improvements needed to compete and survive in a continually changing environment.

Seizing opportunity

Problem solving isn’t just about responding to (and fixing) the environment that exists today. It is also about innovating, creating new things and changing the environment to be more desirable. Problem-solving enables us to identify and exploit opportunities in the environment and exert (some level of) control over the future.

Problem solving skills and the problem-solving process are a critical part of daily life both as individuals and organizations. Developing and refining these skills through training, practice and learning can provide the ability to solve problems more effectively and over time address problems with a greater degree of complexity and difficulty. View KT’s Problem Solving workshop known to be the gold standard for over 60 years.

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Ideas Made to Matter

How to use algorithms to solve everyday problems

Kara Baskin

May 8, 2017

How can I navigate the grocery store quickly? Why doesn’t anyone like my Facebook status? How can I alphabetize my bookshelves in a hurry? Apple data visualizer and MIT System Design and Management graduate Ali Almossawi solves these common dilemmas and more in his new book, “ Bad Choices: How Algorithms Can Help You Think Smarter and Live Happier ,” a quirky, illustrated guide to algorithmic thinking. 

For the uninitiated: What is an algorithm? And how can algorithms help us to think smarter?

An algorithm is a process with unambiguous steps that has a beginning and an end, and does something useful.

Algorithmic thinking is taking a step back and asking, “If it’s the case that algorithms are so useful in computing to achieve predictability, might they also be useful in everyday life, when it comes to, say, deciding between alternative ways of solving a problem or completing a task?” In all cases, we optimize for efficiency: We care about time or space.

Note the mention of “deciding between.” Computer scientists do that all the time, and I was convinced that the tools they use to evaluate competing algorithms would be of interest to a broad audience.

Why did you write this book, and who can benefit from it?

All the books I came across that tried to introduce computer science involved coding. My approach to making algorithms compelling was focusing on comparisons. I take algorithms and put them in a scene from everyday life, such as matching socks from a pile, putting books on a shelf, remembering things, driving from one point to another, or cutting an onion. These activities can be mapped to one or more fundamental algorithms, which form the basis for the field of computing and have far-reaching applications and uses.

I wrote the book with two audiences in mind. One, anyone, be it a learner or an educator, who is interested in computer science and wants an engaging and lighthearted, but not a dumbed-down, introduction to the field. Two, anyone who is already familiar with the field and wants to experience a way of explaining some of the fundamental concepts in computer science differently than how they’re taught.

I’m going to the grocery store and only have 15 minutes. What do I do?

Do you know what the grocery store looks like ahead of time? If you know what it looks like, it determines your list. How do you prioritize things on your list? Order the items in a way that allows you to avoid walking down the same aisles twice.

For me, the intriguing thing is that the grocery store is a scene from everyday life that I can use as a launch pad to talk about various related topics, like priority queues and graphs and hashing. For instance, what is the most efficient way for a machine to store a prioritized list, and what happens when the equivalent of you scratching an item from a list happens in the machine’s list? How is a store analogous to a graph (an abstraction in computer science and mathematics that defines how things are connected), and how is navigating the aisles in a store analogous to traversing a graph?

Nobody follows me on Instagram. How do I get more followers?

The concept of links and networks, which I cover in Chapter 6, is relevant here. It’s much easier to get to people whom you might be interested in and who might be interested in you if you can start within the ball of links that connects those people, rather than starting at a random spot.

You mention Instagram: There, the hashtag is one way to enter that ball of links. Tag your photos, engage with users who tag their photos with the same hashtags, and you should be on your way to stardom.

What are the secret ingredients of a successful Facebook post?

I’ve posted things on social media that have died a sad death and then posted the same thing at a later date that somehow did great. Again, if we think of it in terms that are relevant to algorithms, we’d say that the challenge with making something go viral is really getting that first spark. And to get that first spark, a person who is connected to the largest number of people who are likely to engage with that post, needs to share it.

With [my first book], “Bad Arguments,” I spent a month pouring close to $5,000 into advertising for that project with moderate results. And then one science journalist with a large audience wrote about it, and the project took off and hasn’t stopped since.

What problems do you wish you could solve via algorithm but can’t?

When we care about efficiency, thinking in terms of algorithms is useful. There are cases when that’s not the quality we want to optimize for — for instance, learning or love. I walk for several miles every day, all throughout the city, as I find it relaxing. I’ve never asked myself, “What’s the most efficient way I can traverse the streets of San Francisco?” It’s not relevant to my objective.

Algorithms are a great way of thinking about efficiency, but the question has to be, “What approach can you optimize for that objective?” That’s what worries me about self-help: Books give you a silver bullet for doing everything “right” but leave out all the nuances that make us different. What works for you might not work for me.

Which companies use algorithms well?

When you read that the overwhelming majority of the shows that users of, say, Netflix, watch are due to Netflix’s recommendation engine, you know they’re doing something right.

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Global Cognition

Critical thinking in everyday life.

by Winston Sieck updated September 19, 2021

Have you ever been listening to one of your teacher’s lessons and thought that it had no relevance to your own life?

You’re not alone. Just about every student has felt the same way.

Sure, you use critical thinking skills in the classroom to solve word problems in math, write essays in English, and create hypotheses in science.

But how will you use critical thinking in everyday life?

First, keep in mind that critical thinking is simply a “deliberate thought process.”

Basically, it means that you are using reason and logic to come to a conclusion about an issue or decision you are tangling with.

And clear, sound reasoning is something that will help you every day.

To help you make the leap from classroom to real world, here are 3 concrete examples of critical thinking in everyday life.

Fake News vs. Real News

Take a moment to reflect on your media skills. Do you think you have what it takes to sort out a real news source from a piece of clever advertising?

According to a recent study from Stanford University, a whopping 82% of the teens surveyed could not distinguish between an ad labeled “sponsored content” and a legitimate news story.

Part of the problem may come from schools cutting back on formal instruction of critical thinking skills and an assumption that today’s “digital native” teens can automatically tell the difference without practice or instruction.

You are good at lots of things. But, you know, you’ve practiced those things you’re good at. So, how can you practice telling fact from fiction?

One way (outside of school) is to chat with your family and friends about media sources. Find out how they stay informed, and why they choose those outlets. Ask each other routine questions for evaluating sources .

Do your Friends Know Everything?

It’s tempting to believe that the world begins and ends with your friends. Don’t get me wrong. Friends are definitely important. However, it pays to reflect a little on how a group influences our lives.

To practice critical thinking in everyday life, take a close look at your group of friends. Are there things that are “forbidden” in your social circle? Are you expected to act a certain way, dress a certain way?

Think a certain way?

It’s natural that when a group defines something as “cool”, all the people in the group work to fit into that definition. Regardless of what they individually believe.

The problem is that virtually every situation can be defined in multiple ways. What is “dumb” to one person may be “cool” to another.

Develop your ability to redefine the way you see the world around you. On your own terms.

Find a time when your friend group sees the negative in a situation. Is there a positive way to view it instead? Or at least a way that makes it seem not quite so bad?

You may not be ready to speak up with your independent view. And that’s ok. Just practice thinking differently from the group to strengthen your mind.

Critical Thinking in the Driver’s Seat

One of the core critical thinking skills you need every day is the ability to examine the implications and consequences of a belief or action. In its deepest form, this ability can help you form your own set of beliefs in everything from climate change to religion.

But this skill can also save your life (and your car insurance rate) behind the wheel.

Imagine you are cruising down the freeway when your phone alerts you to an incoming text message. The ability to examine your potential actions and their accompanying consequences will help you make the best choice for how to handle the situation.

Do you look at the text and risk getting into an accident? Do you wait and risk not responding to an urgent matter? Or do you pull over to look at the text and risk being late for your appointment?

The same skill can be applied when you are looking for a place to park, when to pull onto a busy street, or whether to run the yellow light.

Better yet, the more practiced you are at looking at the implications of your driving habits, the faster you can make split second decisions behind the wheel.

Why Critical Thinking in Everyday Life Matters

Literally everyone can benefit from critical thinking because the need for it is all around us.

In a philosophical paper , Peter Facione makes a strong case that critical thinking skills are needed by everyone, in all societies who value safety, justice, and a host of other positive values:

“Considered as a form of thoughtful judgment or reflective decision-making, in a very real sense critical thinking is pervasive. There is hardly a time or a place where it would not seem to be of potential value. As long as people have purposes in mind and wish to judge how to accomplish them, as long as people wonder what is true and what is not, what to believe and what to reject, strong critical thinking is going to be necessary.”

So, in other words, as long as you remain curious, purposeful, and ambitious, no matter what your interests, you’re going to need critical thinking to really own your life.

About Winston Sieck

Dr. Winston Sieck is a cognitive psychologist working to advance the development of thinking skills. He is founder and president of Global Cognition, and director of Thinker Academy .

Reader Interactions

July 27, 2019 at 7:20 am

Wonderful article.. Useful in daily life… I have never imagined the way critical thinking is useful to make judgments

December 9, 2020 at 9:38 pm

My name is Anthony Lambert I am student at miller Motte. Critical Thinking is one my classes. I thank you for giving me the skills of critical thinking.

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Problem solving is for everyday life, too!

Felicia is a business analyst in our Hong Kong office. After graduating from Dartmouth College in 2016 with a double major in government and psychology, Felicia worked in sales and trading at JPMorgan for two years before joining McKinsey. She’s interested in exploring a variety of functions and industries, especially e-commerce, fintech, and digital transformation. Outside of work, Felicia enjoys horse riding, seeking out breathtaking views, and trying out new products from startups.

November 8, 2019 There are so many reasons to work at McKinsey. You can learn from smart people, explore a variety of different industries and functions, and receive excellent professional training. I understood and expected these experiences when joining McKinsey, but what surprised me is that the skills gained at work have substantially driven my personal growth as well.  Specifically, three behaviors I’ve picked up along the way—a can-do attitude, structured thinking, and mindful communication—have really helped me make sound decisions and build better relationships. First, I’ve realized that having a can-do attitude is a great start to any challenge. For example, my mother recently asked me whether we should sell the family apartment in Hong Kong. Without any experience in real estate, my initial reaction was one of bewilderment. However, I quickly realized that like any other problem, common sense goes a long way, and that I did have the critical thinking skills to put together a coherent analysis.

Second, adding structure to my thoughts almost always bring additional clarity, and the tools we use to problem solve at McKinsey are versatile and applicable to all types of issues. One decision I’ve been struggling with is whether to apply to business school. I found myself easily swayed by others’ opinions, and so I decided to draw an issue tree (please see picture). An issue tree is a tool we use to structure problem solving, and it breaks the problem down into mutually exclusive and collectively exhaustive components. Putting together an issue tree helped me realize which specific matters are at stake and identify areas where I need to do a bit more research. Third, practicing mindful communication has helped me become a better friend. At McKinsey, we’re taught the iceberg metaphor, which is used to illustrate that people’s words or actions may be influenced by dynamics that are not immediately visible. It’s encouraged me to dig deeper when having a difficult conversation. The person in front of me may be saying something or behaving in a certain way that confuses me, but instead of getting frustrated, I try to push myself to understand his or her underlying thoughts, feelings, and beliefs at that point in time. Remembering the iceberg metaphor has helped me become a more understanding person, and probably saved me from a few interpersonal conflicts. Looking back at my McKinsey experience, I feel grateful and empowered to have learned these life lessons. Problem solving can be for everyday life, too! Felicia

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People Are Sharing The Minor (But Frustrating) Everyday Struggles They're *Still* Encountering On The Daily, And I'm Floored That These Problems Still Exist

"Surely this is not necessary in the 21st century. Do better."

BuzzFeed Staff

You know those tiny inconveniences you run into daily (or at least very often) that you start to question a bit? And maybe start to wonder why they're even a thing in our modern world. Well, you're not the only one. Recently, I posted about common everyday problems that should've been solved by now, and over 200 of you had even more you wanted to tack on. So here are some more small inconveniences we should get rid of.

1. "the staticky, repetitive, tuneless music you are forced to listen to when you are on hold, which you must keep the volume on so you can hear when someone finally comes on the line. it has not improved since the 1980s.".

—Linda Marie, Georgia

2. "If you’re a plus size woman (at least in the US), you’re weirdly as likely to have very tiny pockets/no pockets as you are to have enormous pockets that stretch in towards the front zipper instead of down towards the knee. I HATE the giant pockets. Imagine putting your wallet, phone, chapstick, whatever into your pocket over by your right hip and then looking down to realize it's moving around and is stealthily creeping towards your fly. It is both bothersome AND embarrassing. I neither want nor need a tiny chapstick penis, oh maker of plus-sized pants!"

— moultonpatricia

3. "Isn't there a way to make nighttime scenes in TV and movies less dark and murky? Half the time all I see are shapes and I can't tell what's going on. Seriously, I know there has to be a way to light such scenes so we can still see the actors' faces, even if it's supposed to be extremely dark."

4. "why does windshield wiper fluid only come in a size that fits only 70–80% of the tank it seems that all vehicles have similar-sized wiper fluid tanks and that the bottles are always more than that, so why not just make the bottles smaller then i don't have to have 20% of liquid sloshing around in a big bottle in my backseat or trunk for months.".

5. "Shopping carts with what feels like square wheels or ones that won’t move in a straight line."

6. "the text on tv remotes and cookers being merely printed on so that over time and use they wear off, leaving every button and dial only identifiable from memory. c'mon, deboss those icons and numbers as well.".

— skirwingle

7. "As a true crime/Investigation Discovery fan, I cannot get over the poor quality of the CCTV cameras in this day and age!"

8. "why aren’t women’s jeans sized like men’s with a waist and inseam size i’m short (4’10”) and always have to hem pants, but men can buy pants based on waist and inseam. women are all different heights, too".

—Luisa, 39, Maryland

9. "A lot of websites, apps, etc. not properly recognizing UK English and telling me that my words are spelled wrong. I write a lot using Google Docs and, even after I tried changing my language to UK English, it still tries to autocorrect it or that ugly, red line under the word haunts me the entire time and keeps popping up if I spell another word the UK English way."

10. "having to change the clock on my car when it’s daylight savings. the thing can park itself and is hooked to every satellite and internet connection you can think of, yet it can’t update the time.".

11. "It’s 2024 and we have no better way to screen for breast cancer than to squeeze the breasts into pancakes. Meanwhile, these engineers are prioritizing building dancing robots."

— savannahg4e56476eb

12. "When I buy a multipack of socks (especially kid's socks or women’s athletic socks), they’re all held together by plastic fastener things at several different spots. Trying to cut the plastic is impossible because they’re pulled tightly together, but trying to pull them to tear the plastic usually pulls it all the way through most, if not all, of the socks, leaving a hole. It’s minor, but so frustrating."

13. "I should be able to enter my zip code, and the city and state populate automatically."

14. "those horrible screeching dental drills that double your anxiety. surely that is not necessary in the 21st century. do better.".

— julieapliska

15. "Washer tubs that are so deep and fill with so little water that I have to get a stool to reach the clothes once they're finished washing."

16. "this one is specifically for the us, but filing taxes. for those of you living outside the us, imagine filling up your cart with groceries, having the cashier enter the prices of all the items, and then they ask you how much you think you owe, even though they have the total right in front of them. and if you’re wrong you can go to jail. that’s what it’s like filing taxes in the us.".

17. "Can we please just get rid of autocorrect? If I typed it, it’s what I meant to type. Sure, go ahead and highlight it or give me some suggestions, but to automatically assume that I did it wrong and change it on me? It’s like having my mother-in-law living inside my cell phone."

18. "having to use a keyboard type thing on the tv screen to enter your email address and password by using arrows and selecting each letter.".

— joannedocherty2505

19. "Why can’t all power cords on everything that needs to be plugged in, from toasters to lamps to coffee makers to fans, ALL be retractable? I have a hair dryer and an iron with retractable cords, but most things don’t have one even though they could!"

—Anonymous, 65, Florida

20. "In a world of electronic devices now being used in TV shows and movies, why is it when the screen of these devices is shown, you can never read the message? Sometimes it's important to the story, but it's so small and/or faint you can't read it."

— da23v8id34

21. "Car horns in radio commercials. SO. STUPID."

— aimeeweyrauch

Are there any modern inconveniences you wish would disappear? Sound off in the comments or fill out this anonymous form !

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The Art of Problem Solving in Everyday Life in 7 Steps

• Post author: lesoned
• Post category: Life lessons
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• Post last modified: September 9, 2023

Everyday in our lives we face challenges and problems as they are some of the things that give purpose and meaning to our lives , they give us reason to wake up everyday and solve them so as to attain the things we want in life like being rich, having a successful business or a happy life which makes problem solving skills come hand in everyday life

Problem solving skills are also one of the most sought after job skills in the job world today because every business has problems and challenges to which critical thinkers and problem solvers are needed fix them.

As a matter of fact during a job interview you are very likely to be asked to give a work related situation in which you where able solve a problem or over came a challenge showcasing your ability to handle difficult or un expected situations.

Table of Contents

What is problem solving ?

Problem solving is the process of identifying a problem or a challenge then coming up with solutions to resolve the problem or challenge

Examples of problem solving skills include;

• Researching
• Decision making

Below are the 7 steps of problem solving process that you can use to solve problems in everyday life situations and all points are generalized and not customized to a particular problem.

1. Identifying What the problem is

This is the first step in problem solving process

This is where you identify a challenge, setback or problem to fix or find solutions for, for example the problem could be losses in a business, lack of friends as a person, or failure to get job as a person or any thing you feel needs to be resolved in your life.

2. Identify the cause of the problem

This is the core aspect of problem solving, failure to find the actual cause of a problem will result into the problem being persistent and never getting solved because you would be solving the wrong cause well as the actual cause is not touched, for example;

Let’s use a business that is not making profits, one of the causes of losses would be low demand of a product, or poor quality products or services, or lack of skilled labor or bad location for the business. So even if you improve the product and services, get the best employees when the cause of the problem is your location the problem will remain because it was never solved instead you solved something that wasn’t necessarily broken.

Improvement in all other aspects other than the core problem will show little to no growth as they aren’t the real problems in the first place.

Another real life example of problem solving was at a supermarket that was not making substantial profits. The owner, who was the actual problem, thought the cause of the problem was unskilled workers, so he increased the number of workers with specialized skills in different departments.

He also thought maybe the items were being sold cheaply so he increased the prices, set up promotional offers so as to attract clients, acquired some items on credit so that he can increase the variety of stock.

The results were mixed in that, increased prices chased away some clients who are price sensitive, especially considering the fact that the same location had other 5 supermarkets he was competing with

Increasing the labor force meant an increase in expenses that the company failed to handle in the long run since there weren’t enough profits made from the products and services they offered.

But amidst all those challenges, the core problem that was never touched and that was the owner of the business who took all the profits from the supermarket for his personal use and that’s the biggest problem with sole proprietor businesses. 

So the money that would have been reinvested in the business was all taken for personal use to the extent that paying electricity and water bills plus salaries was hard and neither could the company restock finished goods which led to low sales so the company could not break even.

So the solution was that the owner of the business had to separate personal income and finances from business finances and since everyone feared him, no one could stand up to him and tell him the ugly truth that stop taking out your business money for personal use and at least get a salary that should be paid to him and also set profits that should be paid out to him every month as a return on investment

More on business problem solving examples

Another always ignored perspective on business failing to find a solution is confusing signs and symptoms of a problem as a core problem for example, workers failing to perform to the expected standard may appear as the reason as to why a business is failing so you decide to get new workers when in reality the core problem is not the workers but delayed salaries

Most employers will ignore the fact that most employees work so that they can earn something for themselves and a livelihood not as volunteers. So failure to fix the actual problem of delayed salaries so as to motivate employees will result into fixing a wrong problem and the problem will persist well as you keep on insisting that workers these days are not good enough because even the new employees will be affected by the same problem

Another problem solving example would be treating a disease, for instance, HIV, typhoid and malaria have some similar signs and symptoms but unless you go for a blood test you might end up treating a wrong disease while the actual disease is killing you, so you might take malaria medicine whilst you are actually suffering typhoid and it will kill you because that’s the actual disease you suffering from and you are not treating it

In the same way failure to get the actual core cause of any problem or challenge will result into the problem never going away and always recurring

How to find the actual cause of a problem

This is another important part of problem solving and below are 4 ways you can use to identify the actual cause of a problem;

• Seeking advice from other successful people would be a great idea but one thing you should know is that something working out for you might not work out for another person because there could be lots of unforeseen factors that could have favored one person at that moment and might not favor you.
• As human beings we tend to see things from different perspective, seeking people’s different perspectives will give you different options to start with and this is like being open to criticism as people tend to see where others are wrong and how they can fix the problem
• Take feedback from people as way of identifying a problem, in case of a business, when people are unsatisfied they always offer feedback and that’s a great place to start and on a personal level when people are unhappy with you they could let you know  
• Put yourself in another person’s shoes, what would you do if you was them, this is not a fool proof solution as people act differently in different situations but it’s a good place to start for example would like going to a restaurant during day or later on at night after work thus you plan accordingly

3 . Generate solutions for the problem

After identifying what the cause of the problem is, for example staying indoors more often could be the cause of having no friends, then you might what to change a few things in your life style like maybe moving out more or if its a business failing then you need to come up with the right solutions to fix it.

4. Evaluate the solutions of the problem

Well this is like having multiple solutions a problem from which you will pick the most suitable one and if one doesn’t work then maybe another one could but also considering the capability of working on it for example sometimes you’re going to be busy with work and honestly won’t be able to go out regularly to meet new people certainly you will need an alternative solution as means of making friends

5. Select on the best option

Well since you’re having a couple of options to from choose after considering all possible circumstances then it’s time to pick the best solution that would work to attain the best results and not just good results, choose an option that is measurable and in line with your goals

6. Implement the solution

After picking the best solution that will work for you and is in line with your goals and objectives. its now time to put it into practice whilst you should be able to monitor progress all through out the implementation process

7. Evaluate the results

This is the last step of the problem solving process

After the solution has been implemented, you will need a reasonable time frame in which a solution should work and with in this period you should get different indicators that show your solution worked let alone being sustainable and consistent

Most actions have a time frame in which they are supposed to work, if something is not working with in a given time frame or you still get the same results even after a few changes then you either fixing the wrong problem or you’re fixing the problem wrongly.

This can further be sorted with key performance indicators (KPIs) that can help track the performance of a given action in solving a problem

Be realistic, it’s one thing to set goals it’s another to set achievable goals. Setting unrealistic goals will make you think a certain solution is not working

The failure to get step one of problem solving right which is identifying the actual problem and step two which is the cause of the problem will give results accordingly but the problem intended to be solved will not be solved if the initial stage is got wrong as it’s the main determinant part in the art of getting a problem solved 

Sometimes nothing is wrong and you just have unrealistic goals and expectations and you think something is wrong when in reality everything is okay and is going as it should hence you end up trying to fix something that is not broken due lack of adequate knowledge or misinformation.

Thus you need make realistic and attainable solutions to actual problems and challenges not assumptions after collecting all possible data about a problem and analyzing it

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The Crucial Role of Logic in Everyday Life

ogic is an essential component of human cognition that underpins our ability to reason, make sound judgments, and arrive at informed decisions. It serves as a guiding framework for critical thinking, enabling us to analyze information, evaluate arguments, and draw valid conclusions. While logic is commonly associated with academic disciplines like mathematics and philosophy, its relevance extends far beyond these realms. In fact, logic plays a fundamental role in our everyday lives, shaping our interactions, problem-solving abilities, and overall cognitive development. This article explores the importance of logic and its practical applications, highlighting how its mastery can enhance our capacity for rational thinking and decision making.

Logic is an essential component of human cognition that underpins our ability to reason, make sound judgments, and arrive at informed decisions.

Logical Analysis and Problem Solving

In our daily lives, we are constantly faced with various challenges and problems that demand effective solutions. Logic provides us with a systematic approach to analyze these problems, break them down into manageable components, and develop logical pathways towards resolution. By employing logical reasoning, we can identify the root causes of an issue, evaluate possible solutions, and select the most viable course of action. Logic helps us in recognizing patterns, detecting inconsistencies, and making well-informed decisions based on evidence rather than personal biases or emotions. Whether it’s troubleshooting a technical glitch, managing personal finances, or resolving interpersonal conflicts, logical thinking empowers us to tackle problems with clarity and precision.

Enhanced Decision Making

Decision making is an integral part of our lives, from choosing a career path to deciding what to have for dinner. Logical thinking plays a critical role in this process, enabling us to evaluate alternatives, weigh pros and cons, and assess potential outcomes. By applying logical principles such as deductive and inductive reasoning, we can navigate complex decision-making scenarios more effectively. Logic encourages us to consider relevant information, question assumptions, and avoid fallacious reasoning, leading to more informed and rational choices. Whether it’s determining the best investment option, evaluating political arguments, or selecting a product from a range of options, logical thinking helps us make decisions that are grounded in reason and evidence.

Logic provides us with a systematic approach to analyze problems, break them down into manageable components, and develop logical pathways towards resolution.

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Effective Communication

Clear and coherent communication is vital for success in both personal and professional domains. Logic plays a pivotal role in fostering effective communication by enabling us to structure our thoughts, express ideas coherently, and construct persuasive arguments. When we communicate logically, we present information in a well-organized manner, support our claims with evidence, and anticipate counterarguments. Logical communication not only enhances our ability to convey our thoughts accurately but also promotes active listening and constructive dialogue. By engaging in logical discussions, we can critically evaluate information, challenge misconceptions, and arrive at shared understandings, fostering meaningful connections and facilitating collaborative problem solving.

Conflict Resolution

Disagreements and conflicts are an inevitable part of human interactions. Logic provides us with a valuable framework for navigating conflicts and finding mutually agreeable solutions. By employing logical reasoning, we can separate emotions from facts, engage in rational discussions, and avoid common cognitive biases that hinder conflict resolution. Logic enables us to critically evaluate differing perspectives, identify areas of common ground, and build logical arguments that address the underlying issues. Moreover, logical thinking promotes empathy, allowing us to understand others’ viewpoints and engage in respectful and constructive dialogue. By applying logic to conflict resolution, we can transcend personal biases, foster understanding, and promote harmonious relationships.

Logic enables us to critically evaluate differing perspectives, identify areas of common ground, and build logical arguments that address the underlying issues.

n conclusion, logic serves as a cornerstone of our everyday lives, providing us with the tools to think critically, make informed decisions, and engage in effective communication. By cultivating logical thinking skills, we enhance our problem-solving abilities, improve our decision-making processes, and promote constructive interactions with others. In a world where information is abundant and complexity is prevalent, logic equips us with the means to navigate uncertainty, make sense of the world, and lead more rational and fulfilling lives. Embracing logic as an essential aspect of our cognitive toolkit empowers us to approach life’s challenges with clarity, reason, and intellectual integrity.

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When it comes to everyday problems in your life, some are easier to fix than you might think, like not having enough lighting in your kitchen or losing items in your purse. Amazon is a handy site when looking for solutions, as they have tons of products to help solve those pesky common issues.

In this list, you’ll find a bunch of simple life solutions , at home and on the go. In the kitchen, you can improve your dish-drying setup with this silicone drying mat that’s easy to clean. Make it easier to add sugar to your coffee or tea with this glass container that dispenses from the bottom.

Forgetting where to be and when? Keep your appointments and events more organized with this magnetic whiteboard calendar that’s perfect for attaching to your fridge. Is your closet becoming an issue? You can better organize your shoes with this bamboo shoe rack that looks great wherever it’s placed.

Whether your problems are in the kitchen, the closet, or your own purse, you’ll find plenty of solutions that make your life just a little bit easier in this list.

Problem: You Can’t Reach The Candle Wick

After you’ve burned a candle for a while, it can be tricky to light without burning your hand. This electric lighter has a long, bendable neck, so you can adjust it based on the size and depth of your candle. Since it’s electric, the lighter is rechargeable using a USB charging port and doesn’t use lighter fluid.

Problem: Your Half-Eaten Bag Of Chips Went Stale

Keep your snacks fresh with this mini bag sealer . The device uses heat to reseal the packaging of chips, cookies, and other snacks, so they don’t go stale. It heats up in just a few seconds and seals almost instantly. It’s also lightweight, so you can take it to work or while traveling.

Problem: Necklaces Are Getting Tangled

A layered necklace look is always chic — unless, of course, your necklaces get tangled. This clasp allows you to clip three necklaces onto little rings that keep the chains separated. It clasps together with a magnet, so it’s easy to take on and off. It’s also great for bracelets and comes in silver and gold.

Problem: Inside Your Bag Is A Mess

Having an organized purse is a rare skill that most of us don’t possess — it doesn’t help that many bags (looking at you totes!) don’t even have any inner pockets or storage. This purse organizer insert has 10 pockets, including a zippered one, so you can keep your wallet, makeup, gum, and other items in their own pockets. The organizer is made from a sturdy felt material and comes in 19 colors and designs, including snakeskin and polka dot.

Problem: Burning Your Fingers & Forearms

When it comes to kitchen tools, oven mitts are not somewhere you want to skimp, since they protect you from burning yourself. These silicone oven mitts have an extra thick padded lining, so they keep your hands and arms safe, but they also have a silicone layer on the outside which makes them heat resistant up to 450 degrees. Aside from the brilliant red shade featured, you can also buy them in aqua, gray, and black.

Problem: Charging Cables Everywhere

Keep all your devices at 100% with this 3-in-1 charging station. With a spot for your phone, smartwatch, and earbuds, this charging station is perfect for keeping in your home or office. It uses wireless charging, so it also means you won’t have a huge mess of cords. It’s compatible with most smart devices, including Apple, Android, and Samsung.

Problem: Poorly Lit Cabinets & Closets

Add more light to your closets, cabinets — or anywhere that needs a little extra light — without having to install a whole light fixture. These under the cabinet lights come with adhesive tape, so they’re easy to install. A remote is included, so the brightness can be easily adjusted.

Problem: Bugs Getting In The House

When the weather’s nice out, it’s the perfect time to leave your door open to let the warm breeze in. Of course, the open air comes with bugs — unless you have one of these magnetic screen doors . Made from a fine mesh, the screen lets air in but keeps bugs and debris out. It also has a magnetic closure so you can enter and exit even if your hands are full.

Problem: Running Out Of Paper Towels

Paper towels are handy, but they eventually run out. These Swedish dishcloths , on the other hand, are machine washable and reusable up to 100 times. Plus they come in a pack of 10, so they can take the place of several paper towel rolls. The cloths are stiff when dry but become soft and pliable when wet.

Problem: Overbooking Your Schedule

If you have a hard time keeping track of your schedule, then this magnetic whiteboard calendar will come in handy. The calendar is ideal for attaching to the fridge, or any other magnetic surface. It can be filled in and erased each month to keep track of appointments and events. You can use it immediately, as it comes with six dry erase markers.

Problem: Having Noisy Housemates

Keep your room quiet with this door draft stopper that blocks out noise and insulates. This stopper has a velcro strip that makes it more adjustable. It also helps keep cold air out and keep heat in. For those with noisy roommates, this can offer a bit more peace at a low price.

Problem: Losing Your Luggage

It can be hard to keep track of your luggage when so many suitcases look alike. Set yours apart with this luggage tag that has a big colorful letter on it to match your initial on your first or last name. The tag is made of rubber, so it won’t be easily damaged, and includes a card for writing down your contact information in the chance your luggage gets misplaced.

Problem: Not Being Able To Properly Clean Your Reusable Straws (Or Not Having Them At All)

Reusable straws are great for reducing single-use plastic, but they can be a pain to clean. These silicone straws come with their own cleaning brush that gets into the narrow cavity of the straws. They can be used for hot and cold drinks and are safe to throw in the dishwasher. They also come in a 2-pack, with 20 straws total.

Problem: Breaking Dishes Because You Don’t Have A Proper Place To Dry Them

If you’re playing Jenga with your dishes when you’re setting them on your counter to dry then chances are you’ve broken more than a few. But that is where this silicone dish drying mat comes in: It’s soft but non-slip so you can set your wet dishes on it without them slipping around, cracking, and shattering. It is easy to clean, so it won’t build up dirt and grime like a cloth drying mat. It’s dishwasher safe and heat-resistant, so you can also use it to support hot plates.

Problem: Getting Syrup Or Honey All Over Your Hands

When it gets on your hands, syrup seems to multiply — making everything you touch sticky for the rest of the day. But with this syrup/honey dispenser , you can keep your hands clean. The dispenser has a lever you can pull that releases syrup from the bottom of the bottle. Dispensing from the bottom also means you’ll be able to get every last drop of the sticky sweet liquid sugar without having to shake the bottle or awkwardly balance it on its head while it slowly drips towards the opening at the top. This dispenser comes with a stand with a reservoir to catch any syrup drips.

Problem: Running Out Of Aluminum Foil

Never worry about running out of foil or plastic wrap again with this reusable food wrap made from beeswax. These wraps are moldable to your needs, so they can cover a large bowl of salad or wrap around a leftover piece of fruit. They’re washable and reusable, plus biodegradable, so they’re better for the environment.

Problem: Your Rugs Are Sliding Around

Keep your rugs from slipping around the floor with this rug pad that can be cut to fit any size you need. The pad is made from a non-slip foam that can be used on wood floors, tile, and other materials. It automatically sticks to the rug and the floor, so there’s no special installation required.

Problem: There’s Not Enough Storage Space In The Living Room

Use this storage ottoman to hold blankets, books, pillows, and other items that don’t necessarily have a good home in your living room. The ottoman has a faux leather cushioned top, which is perfect for resting your feet on. The lid is removable with a collapsible base.

Problem: Figuring Out Where To Put Your Phone During Workouts

Workout clothes don’t always have pockets for holding your phone the way a pair of jeans does. Luckily, these high-waisted leggings have pockets on the thigh, so your phone will be safe and secure while you’re going on a walk or run. They’re made from a soft, stretchy fabric made from a spandex and polyester blend for maximum comfort.

• Available sizes: One Size and One Size Plus
• Available colors: 51

Problem: It’s Too Bright To Nap

Darken your room without the hassle of professionally installing shades. This set of six window shades comes with sticky adhesive for easy installation. They can also be cut to size, so you can fit them exactly to your window. They also come with clips to help you easily adjust the height.

Problem: You’re Not Able To Find Your Keys After Dropping Them

Dropping your keys in the dark can be a huge pain, but this magnetic pickup tool will help save the day. The tool has a long arm, bright flashlight, and magnetic surface to pick up whatever you dropped. Use it to safely collect anything metal, or magnetically attach it to a metal surface, like the hood of your car, for better vision.

Problem: There’s No Way To Store Canned Pet Food

I recently started feeding my dog canned wet food, and having can covers makes it so much easier. This set of five covers is made from food-safe silicone and fits three different sizes of cans. They’re dishwasher safe and come in an array of colors. They also have a cute paw tab that makes removal a breeze.

Problem: You Slept In And It’s Too Late To Get Coffee

We can’t all get up early to make it to the coffee shop before work. Make your own fancy latte at home with this milk frother . The lightweight device is easy to use and turns milk into foam in just a few seconds. It’s portable, so you can even take it with you to work or on vacation. It also comes with its own metal stand.

Problem: There’s Nowhere To Put Your Essentials When Going For A Walk

Sometimes you want to go on a walk or hike, but don’t want to drag around a heavy backpack. Did you know that fanny packs are back in style? This fanny pack is the perfect option for holding your phone, wallet, keys, and other essentials. The fanny pack is made from durable nylon that is water-resistant. It has six zippered pockets, so your things will be safe and sound.

Problem: Breaking Eggs When Storing Them In The Fridge

Cardboard egg cartons are flimsy — stack them in your fridge and chances are you’re probably going to end up breaking an egg or two — which is why these plastic egg cartons are so genius. They’re sturdy and stackable, so you can organize your fridge and protect your eggs. The trays come in a pack of two and hold 12 eggs each.

Problem: You’re Dropping Nails & Screws While Working

If you like to spend time working on DIY projects or doing repairs, then this magnetic wristband will come in handy. The wristband attaches with velcro and is handy for holding screws, nails, or other tools you’re using while working. The wristband is equipped with 10 strong magnets, but it’s still lightweight.

Problem: You’re Spending Too Much On Cold Brew

Save yourself time in the morning and ditch the coffee shop. This cold brew maker has a stainless steel filter and holds up to 12 cups, so you can make cold brew for the whole week. Just put your favorite coffee grounds in the filter, add water, and put it in the fridge to steep. It can also be used for making iced tea. It comes in two sizes — two liters and a gallon.

Problem: You Always Drop Your Soap In The Shower

A bar of soap can be hard to hold onto in the shower, but these soap saver bags are easier to grip. The five-bag set is made from natural sisal plants, which help the soap lather and produce foam. The bags are also ideal for when the bar of soap gets too small, but you’re not ready to throw it out just yet.

Problem: There’s Nowhere To Store Leftover Food

A good set of food containers serve as one of the most useful tools in any kitchen. These glass storage containers come in a set of 24, with a range of sizes to fit everything from leftover salmon to half a lemon. The containers have an airtight seal that is leakproof, so it’s perfect for storing leftovers to take for lunch.

Problem: The Sheets Keep Coming Off The Bed

It’s a pain when your fitted sheets don’t stay fitted. These sheet holder straps clip onto the corner of your sheets, holding them in place so they don’t slip off. The straps have metal clips and elastic bands, which are easy to install. They’re basically like little suspenders for your sheets.

Problem: You Can’t Find Your Shoes

If you have a habit of misplacing your shoes around the house, then this shoe shelf will help keep them organized. Made from sturdy bamboo, the shelf holds three or four pairs of shoes on each tier and is perfect for keeping in the entryway or bedroom. If you need three or more tiers, Amazon offers those options as well.

Problem: Misplacing Your Keys

Attach this Tile Bluetooth tracker to your keyring and you won’t have to dig through all your purses to find your keys. The small, lightweight tracker connects to the Tile app on your phone, so it can help you find your keys in your home, or if you left them in your bag somewhere while out and about. It’s incredible how much time you’ll save (and how many appointments you’ll be on time for.)

Problem: Uneven Winged Eyeliner

Unless you’re a professional makeup artist, getting the perfect winged eyeliner can be tricky. This eyeliner stamp makes it so much easier by literally stamping the shape of the wing on the corner of your eye. Each liner has two ends, one for the stamp and one with a fine point for refining the edges. It’s also waterproof and smudge-proof.

Problem: Forgetting A Good Pillow While Traveling

One of the worst feelings in the world is needing a pillow, but not having a pillow. Luckily, you can prep ahead of time by storing this compressible memory foam pillow in the trunk of your car. It doesn’t take up a lot of room but will offer a ton of comfort in a pinch. It’s also machine washable.

Problem: Getting Sauce On The Counter

The problem with most spoon rests is that they only hold one spoon. This silicone utensil rest has four slots, which is perfect if you’re the kind of cook (like me) who cooks with a spatula and two spoons at the same time. The utensil rest has a large drip pad to catch any sauce or liquid that drips off. The best part is that you can easily throw it in the dishwasher to clean.

Problem: Avocados Going Bad Too Quickly

Avocados are an odd shape, so they don’t always fit in a typical storage container. This avocado saver is designed to preserve the fruit with an indent designed to fit around the pit (leaving the pit in helps it from going brown) The container also has an adjustable strap to keep the avocado in place, like a little seatbelt.

Problem: Having Too Much Produce You Didn’t Finish

These silicone food huggers are a versatile kitchen accessory and can be used to preserve half an apple, a partially used onion, or as a replacement lid on a jar. They come in a set of five of varying sizes, and are a great solution for replacing plastic wrap or foil, and help reduce single-use plastic in your home.

Problem: You Can’t Get All The Toothpaste Out

Get the most out of your toothpaste with these tube squeezers . Just like the name implies, these handy tools squeeze out every last drop from the tube, and can also be used for makeup, lotion, or anything else that comes in a tube. They come in a pack of four, so you’ll have plenty at hand.

Problem: You Can’t Find Your Earrings

Make it easier to find the pair of earrings or that necklace you want to wear with this jewelry organizer . With 80 clear vinyl pockets, this organizer makes it easy to find the piece you’re looking for while also keeping them from getting tangled with each other. The organizer also has a hook at the top, making it easy to hang.

Problem: The Duvet Getting Scrunched Up In Its Cover

Keeping your duvet in place inside a duvet cover is no easy feat. Luckily, these magnetic duvet clips are an easy solution. The clips secure your duvet with a magnetic pin, and each pin can secure up to 10 pounds. They come in a set of eight, so you can secure the whole edge.

Problem: Accidentally Shrinking Cotton Clothes

Not all fabrics are suitable for a dryer. This Amazon Basics laundry rack is perfect for hanging shrinkable fabrics like cotton, delicate undergarments, or other items that you want to air-dry. The steel rack can support up to 32 pounds and is collapsible, so you can store it away when not in use.

Problem: Leaving The Lights On

Once you leave the house, there’s no way to know whether or not you left any lights on. That is, unless you use these smart lightbulbs that you can control from your phone. These bulbs connect to an app (and can even connect to Alexa and Google Home) where you can turn them on and off, adjust the brightness, and even change the color of the light.

Problem: Losing Jewelry While Traveling

If you take your favorite jewelry with you on a trip, then you’re gonna want a safe place to store it. This travel jewelry organizer has compartments to hold rings, necklaces, and other assorted jewelry. It has a zipper closure and is compact enough to fit in a purse. Plus, it comes in 17 colors.

Problem: Pants That Are Too Long

Adjust the length of your pants without going to a tailor using this double-sided clothing tape . It’s safe to use on both your skin and clothing without damaging either. It can also be used to keep clothing in place, like a dress strap or a low-cut blouse. Each pack comes with 50 pieces of tape.

Problem: Wrinkly Clothing

It can be a whole ordeal to pull out the iron just to remove a few wrinkles. This crease release spray works without an iron. Just spray it on the fabric and smooth your hand over it to remove the wrinkles. Plus, it has a clean, fresh laundry scent.

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Why Psychology Is Important in Our Daily Life

Psychology, often only imagined in therapy rooms and academic research, actually permeates all aspects of human existence. It is the dynamic study of mind and behavior, covering the spectrum from the biological processes in our brains to the social norms that govern our actions. This science is fundamental, not only for understanding individual and group behavior, but also for applying this knowledge to improve our daily lives.

In this article, we will explore how psychological insights improve our daily interactions and decision-making processes. Psychology is not just a field of study, but a tool that, when understood and used effectively, can deepen our understanding of ourselves and improve our interactions with the world. Whether it’s managing personal relationships, making career decisions or coping with stress, psychological principles offer a strategic advantage.

Join me as we delve into the ways psychology informs and improves our daily decisions, interactions, and overall well-being. By the end, you’ll see that psychology isn’t just about understanding what makes us tick—it’s about using that knowledge to live more thoughtfully and effectively.

On our journey, we will explore the practical applications of psychology in everyday life. By integrating psychological concepts, we can gain a better understanding of our emotional drives, improve our communication skills, and approach life’s challenges with greater competence. Among the various therapeutic techniques, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is perhaps the best known and most widely used. It exemplifies how psychological tools are designed not only for short-term interventions but for promoting long-term growth and adaptation. If you’re interested in learning more about how CBT can be applied to various aspects of everyday life, you can find additional information here .

This article aims to bridge the gap between psychological theory and everyday practice and show that understanding psychology is not just an academic exercise – it is a daily practice that enriches our lives in countless ways.

Join me as we delve into how psychology influences and improves our daily decisions, interactions, and overall well-being. By the end, you’ll see that psychology isn’t just about understanding what makes us tick, it’s about using that knowledge to live more thoughtfully and effectively.

Understanding Ourselves and Others

Self-awareness.

Psychology offers a window into the complex machinery of our minds, illuminating why we feel certain emotions, what motivates our actions, and why we behave in particular ways. Theories such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) show us how our thoughts affect our emotions and behaviors, while humanistic approaches emphasize understanding oneself in the context of personal growth and fulfillment. By engaging with these theories, individuals can develop a keener sense of self-awareness. This enhanced self-understanding enables us to identify personal patterns that might be counterproductive, set realistic goals, and cultivate personal growth, thereby leading to a more fulfilling life.

Empathy and Social Relationships

Psychology also deepens our ability to empathize with others, a fundamental aspect of building and maintaining healthy relationships. By understanding concepts like emotional intelligence and theory of mind—which involves recognizing and understanding another person’s feelings and perspectives—we can better relate to others. This understanding is crucial in navigating diverse social interactions, from close familial relationships to professional environments. It helps in resolving conflicts, improving communication, and fostering strong bonds based on mutual understanding and respect.

Decision-Making and Problem Solving

Cognitive biases.

Our decision-making processes are often influenced by cognitive biases—systematic errors in thinking that affect our judgments and decisions. Common biases include the confirmation bias, where we favor information that confirms our preexisting beliefs, and the anchoring bias, which involves relying too heavily on the first piece of information we encounter. By learning about these and other biases, we can begin to identify them in our own decision-making processes, allowing us to make more balanced and informed decisions.

Role of Emotions

Emotions play a powerful role in our decision-making, often without us being consciously aware of it. Psychological insights into emotional regulation can help us understand and manage our emotions, leading to more rational and considered decisions. Techniques such as mindfulness and cognitive restructuring enable individuals to maintain emotional balance by moderating reactions to emotionally charged situations. This balance is crucial not only for personal well-being but also for making decisions that are reasoned and objective rather than impulsive or biased.

Psychological Resilience in Daily Challenges

Stress management.

Managing stress effectively is crucial for maintaining mental health and overall well-being. Psychology offers several strategies for coping with stress:

• Mindfulness and Meditation : These practices help center the mind, reduce rumination, and promote relaxation.
• Cognitive Behavioral Techniques : Identifying and challenging stress-inducing thoughts can change emotional responses and behaviors towards stress.
• Physical Activity : Regular exercise, shown to reduce stress, can also be framed as a psychological coping strategy, boosting endorphins and providing mental clarity.

Adaptability

Adaptability, or psychological flexibility, is essential in managing life’s inevitable changes and challenges. This trait involves:

• Emotional Regulation : Understanding and managing one’s emotions to better navigate new or changing environments.
• Openness to Experience : Embracing new experiences and ideas, which is crucial for growth and adaptation.
• Problem-solving Skills : Viewing challenges as opportunities to learn and grow rather than insurmountable problems.

Enhancing Work and Productivity

Motivation and performance.

Psychological principles are profoundly effective in enhancing motivation and performance in the workplace:

• Goal Setting Theory : Clear, achievable goals can significantly enhance motivation and performance.
• Self-Determination Theory : This theory emphasizes the importance of autonomy, competence, and relatedness in fostering intrinsic motivation.
• Feedback Systems : Constructive feedback helps individuals recognize their strengths and areas for improvement, fostering a growth mindset.

Workplace Relationships

Understanding psychology can dramatically improve interpersonal relationships and dynamics at work:

• Emotional Intelligence : High emotional intelligence allows for better communication, empathy, and conflict management among colleagues.
• Psychological Safety : Creating an environment where team members feel safe to express thoughts and mistakes can lead to better collaboration and innovation.
• Conflict Resolution Techniques : Using strategies such as active listening and assertive communication can help resolve conflicts more effectively and maintain a harmonious work environment.

By incorporating psychological insights into these areas, individuals can foster resilience in the face of personal challenges and enhance their productivity and interpersonal relationships at work. This not only benefits individual employees but also contributes to a healthier, more dynamic workplace culture.

Health and Well-Being

In the realm of health and well-being, psychology plays a pivotal role. It’s not just about treating mental health conditions; it’s about recognizing and managing them proactively. Understanding psychological disorders, their symptoms, and the underlying causes is crucial for early detection and effective management. This awareness fosters a supportive environment that can significantly reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues, encouraging individuals to seek help sooner.

Moreover, psychology deeply influences our lifestyle choices. Insights from health psychology, for instance, can motivate individuals towards healthier behaviors such as regular exercise, balanced dieting, and adequate sleep. These choices are often affected by psychological factors like stress levels, emotional states, and cognitive biases, which can either impede or enhance our ability to make healthy decisions.

Psychological Insights in Consumer Behavior

In the consumer market, psychological principles are extensively applied to influence buying behaviors. Marketing strategies often utilize tactics such as scarcity, social proof, and reciprocity to sway consumer decisions. Understanding these tactics can empower consumers to make choices that are more in line with their actual needs and values rather than being purely reactionary or influenced by advertising.

Furthermore, psychology plays a crucial role in economic decisions. Cognitive biases such as loss aversion and the sunk cost fallacy frequently skew rational economic thinking. By becoming aware of these psychological influences, individuals can make more informed and rational decisions about spending, investing, and saving.

As Sigmund Freud, the father of psychoanalysis, famously stated, “Being entirely honest with oneself is a good exercise.” This honesty with oneself is essential in understanding and applying psychological insights to make better decisions about our health, lifestyle, and financial well-being, ultimately improving our overall quality of life.

The Everyday Impact of Psychology

Through this exploration, we’ve seen the extensive reach of psychological principles in everyday life. From enhancing our self-awareness and improving our interactions with others to refining our decision-making and fostering resilience, psychology offers invaluable tools that enrich our daily experiences. It’s evident that understanding and applying these principles goes beyond academic interest—it’s about actively engaging with tools that enhance our personal and professional lives.

Apply Psychology Personally and Professionally

If you’re intrigued by the practical applications of psychology we’ve discussed, why not delve deeper? Whether you’re navigating personal challenges, seeking enhancement in your professional life, or simply aiming for personal growth, applying psychological insights can provide significant benefits. At Zita Chriszto, specialized psychotherapy services are available for both adults and children , tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual and situation.

I encourage you to take these insights beyond the theoretical and make them part of your everyday life. Whether it’s through personal reflection, professional development, or seeking tailored guidance at Zita Chriszto, embracing psychology can lead to profound improvements in how you understand and interact with the world around you. Let’s harness the power of psychology to craft a more insightful, resilient, and fulfilling life.

Disclaimer: This article contains sponsored marketing content. It is intended for promotional purposes and should not be considered as an endorsement or recommendation by our website. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and exercise their own judgment before making any decisions based on the information provided in this article.

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Opinion: Mother’s Day is painful for many of my clients. Here’s how we all can help.

Let’s celebrate the mothers in our lives while also mourning with those who mourn..

(Rick Egan | The Salt Lake Tribune) The LDS Church History Museum, on Thursday, June 9, 2022.

Why do so many women dread Mother’s Day? What are we doing inadvertently, as a community, to perpetuate this pain? And what can we do about it?

Based on my 30 years of clinical experience working with women in Utah, I have a few ideas.

1. Stop defining women primarily by their motherhood status, and celebrate women as unique, multidimensional people.

Motherhood does not equal womanhood. While motherhood is a large and important part of many women’s lives, it is not the defining part of a woman’s identity. Focusing on motherhood as a primary definer of a woman’s value or worth neglects her multidimensional nature. Many mothers have also made incredible contributions outside of the home that may be overlooked when we define women by motherhood. Other women choose to be child-free or would like children and are unable to have them for a variety of reasons. Each woman is on a unique journey, contributing much good — that may or may not include bearing and raising children.

2. Encourage self-care instead of sharing stories that idealize self-sacrifice and self-neglect in mothers.

Mother’s Day tributes shared in church or on social media about “my angel mother” who “always did without” and “never complained a day in her life” and “always put others first” elevate self-sacrifice above any other characteristics. Most mothers want to be seen as real, messy, difficult and multi-faceted. Perpetuating the ideal that self-sacrifice is the defining feature of women only creates new generations of mothers who feel that their dreams and needs don’t matter. If you want to help reduce pain for women, encourage them to take good care of themselves, to explore their goals and dreams and do what you can to nurture and care for the women in your life who have nurtured you.

3. Rather than speaking platitudes of gratitude, notice and value the work they do and share the load in everyday home and family life.

Words of gratitude, cards, flowers and gifts on one special day are wonderful, however, what many women want is practical support in everyday life. Even when both partners are working full-time, women perform the bulk of unpaid work in family life. Much of the unpaid work is also invisible labor — work that is crucial to the functioning of society but often unseen and unacknowledged. If you want to honor the women in your life, start seeing the invisible work they do like planning and executing special events, signing up kids for activities, managing the family calendar, sending holiday cards, tracking what needs to be purchased at the grocery store. Express appreciation for this invisible work, and then decide to take over one of her invisible tasks to lighter her load. If you are a male partner, step up and be a partner in all areas of life as a way to celebrate the woman you love.

4. Avoid saying that all women are mothers. Recognize that some women are not mothers and that insisting that they are mothers may minimize their pain and loss.

Why do we never hear the phrase “All men are fathers?” Because they’re not. We don’t define men by their fatherhood status like we define women by motherhood. Many women long to be a mother, and the fact that they aren’t mothers is painful. Telling them they are mothers can further minimize the loss and pain of infertility, infant loss, death of a child, or not having a partner to have a child with. Acknowledge that not being a mother is painful for many women, grieve with them, and comfort them on Mother’s Day.

5. Don’t assume that all mother-child relationships are positive and nurturing. Recognize that many people have complex, painful, even estranged relationships with their own mother or children.

Relationships of all kinds can be fraught with conflict, abandonment, neglect and abuse. However, when your mother, or your child, is the perpetrator of your pain, Mother’s Day may bring up particularly intense emotions including guilt, grief, shame, rage and jealousy. We can be more sensitive to the variety of mother-child relationships, including individuals where the roles were reversed, and the child ended up caring for their mother. If you have a great relationship with your mother, honor her, while also being aware that not everyone shares your situation.

On Mother’s Day, let’s celebrate the mothers in our lives while also mourning with those who mourn.

(Photo courtesy of Dr. Julie Hanks) Dr. Julie Hanks

Dr. Julie Hanks is a licensed therapist and the owner of Wasatch Family Therapy.

The Salt Lake Tribune is committed to creating a space where Utahns can share ideas, perspectives and solutions that move our state forward. We rely on your insight to do this. Find out how to share your opinion here , and email us at [email protected] .

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