Problem Solving Mindset

Thank you.  Thank you for your problem solving mindset when faced with new challenges.  Thank you for creatively approaching issues in a way that doesn't take no for an answer.  Thank you for collaborating with staff, families, and students to get the best results possible.

When you have an effective problem solving mindset, you become a valuable resource for friends, family, and colleagues. Even in the most stressful of situations, you are seen as an ally and a cheerleader for the good of the group.

Critical aspects of a problem solving mindset

The following skills are critical aspects of a problem solving mindset: 

1. Responsibility

Responsibility is both a skill and an attitude. When you encounter a problem in your life, you can either bury your head in the sand or, you can choose to do something proactive about the situation. With a problem solving mindset, you know that if you do not attempt to deal with the problem; you are creating a bigger problem which, when you are eventually forced to deal with it; it will be more difficult to resolve successfully. Therefore, when you see a problem, you are willing to step up and attempt to resolve the situation.

2. Emotional intelligence

When things go wrong, it is easy to lose control of your emotions. With a problem solving mindset you take ownership of your emotions, think calmly, and then choose a response to the situation.

3. Goal identification

When trying to solve a problem, a problem solving mindset realizes that it's important to first understand the true nature of the problem, and then decide what solution you would like to achieve. It's very difficult if you have no idea of the outcome you are trying to achieve!  It's also important to see the big picture of the problem, and not place blame on individual people, programs, etc.  Identify what can be controlled, and focus on that.

4. Active listening

When you genuinely listen to people and take an interest in what they say, this communicates itself to the person speaking. When you listen actively, ask questions and reflect, the speaker feels valued and appreciated thus encouraging them to be more open, trustworthy and helpful as you try to resolve the problem. Active listening is not just listening. It is listening with the purpose of gathering as much information about the problem as possible to clarify any misconceptions, and to start to work on a solution.

5. Desire to find the most appropriate solution

Too often, when trying to solve a problem, people jump at the first solution that comes into their head. In my experience, the first solution is rarely the best or most appropriate solution. It is best to take a period of time to generate as many potential solutions as possible. Invite all of the relevant stakeholders to offer their thoughts. Then, together, you can evaluate each potential solution to determine which one is most likely to bring about the conclusion that you are seeking.  Don't be afraid to share your solution -  this might be the key to success!