Problem solving

Many of us are beginning the resolution making process to become a better version of ourself in 2025, which is only 3 weeks away. Making the resolution is the fun part. Executing, especially when we run into obstacles, is the hard part.

When we run into a problem, it is easy to get frustrated. Rarely are we happy about a new problem. Yet solving problems is not only one of the best ways to feel good, it also helps to build habits, which can lead to improvement.

Habit expert James Clear explains that “The more precisely you define the problem, the more easily you can find a solution.”

For example, if we’d like to exercise more consistently we define the problem as a simple question: “How can I start exercising consistently?” To solve the problem, forget every exercise and just learn to do 1 pushup. Use the steps that James describes here to increase your number of pushups slowly. Stick with that exercise for days, weeks, months or however long it takes to prove to yourself that you can solve this small problem. After this small problem is solved, use the lessons you’ve learned and discipline you’ve built to become more consistent at exercising in general.

To build habits and live a healthier life, reframing problems from a frustration to an opportunity can transform how we think and make us happier.

Here are 3 ways to consider problem solving this week.

1. Search for meaningful problems Often it is not the work that makes us unhappy, but feeling that we are working to solve a problem that is not meaningful. By finding meaningful problems, we develop a renewed passion for our work, which naturally increases our resilience. When we are fortunate to be working on meaningful problems, lets be grateful for the the opportunity.

2. Don’t worry about solving everything at once: If you do not run, don’t expect to win a marathon next month. Seek progress, not perfection. If positive progress is slower than expected, that is ok. Focus on beating the version of yourself from the day before. When this gets applied repeatedly, it compounds to produce positive results. From consistency, incredible things happen.

3. Consider different approaches: When we are struggling to solve a problem, rephrasing it to ourselves, describing it to a friend or considering it from an alternative perspective can help to understand it differently. When we have a deeper level of understanding, we give ourselves the opportunity to think outside of the box, which can tap into our creative juices and find solutions that we had not initially thought of.

Thanks for reading. Lets have a great week!