Solving the problems that life throws at us is an innate ability for some. Unfortunately, many people have a hard time dealing with them, be it serious issues or small daily difficulties. In this article you will find some tips to be able to deal with these issues and everyday problems.
Steps
Step 1. Make sure you fully understand the nature of the problem
If you can fully understand the situation and keep the essence of the problem in mind, you can handle it quite easily if you are willing to consider all possible solutions.
Step 2. Gather as much information as you can in order to make an informed decision about the problem
If it doesn't require a decision on your part, it's still important to learn everything you can about it.
Step 3. Talk to people who could support you such as friends, family, co-workers, other parents, etc
Try to leave the emotions out and focus on the facts. Try to remain as practical and impartial as possible.
Step 4. Ask questions and find out as much detail as possible
Hear all versions of the story if more than one person gets involved. Not all details are likely to be obvious, and sometimes knowing all the facts helps solve the problem.
Step 5. Take your time
You may be forced to make an immediate decision, but it's good to be able to delay it. Reply that you need to think about it.
Step 6. Make a list of pros and cons
Be honest and ask your loved ones or co-workers for an opinion if necessary.
Step 7. Think about the list
Step 8. Take a break
Find a quiet, distraction-free place and think about what to do. Consider the rules, business practice if it's a work-related issue, your long-term goals, and if this really is a crucial issue or just a nuisance. Ask yourself what aspects of the problem you can have control over and influence. Try to distinguish between what you can change and what is out of your reach. Keep your feelings out of the equation and examine the facts available.
Step 9. Prioritize the pros and cons of the list you prepared earlier
Step 10. Realize that when you make a decision, not everyone will agree with your choice
Step 11. Make a decision and stick to it
Whether it is how to move forward after a bad experience, the solution to a personal problem, a path to take to reach a goal or your state of mind to face a problem, you need to stick to the decision you make.
Step 12. Do what you think is best in that moment
That way, you won't regret the position you take.
Step 13. Focus on the solution, not the problem
The latter will remain so until you find a solution, and this may be right there at your fingertips. You may not be able to see it because you are too worried about the problem itself.
Step 14. Think positive
To do otherwise would only increase the tension further.
Advice
- Take care of yourself. The most important person in difficult situations is you.
- Realize that there are many people with far worse problems than yours. Put your problems in perspective; you will be able to overcome all obstacles and you will understand how lucky you are.
- Create a list of changes you need to make. You may not be able to remove all your problems, but you can learn from them to avoid repeating the same mistakes.
