5 Hacks to Be Better at Problem-Solving

3 min readJan 19, 2023

In an ideal world, we would be the ones who face our problems head-on. The rational ones, who analyze every situation while keeping their head cool as a cucumber. However, problems have this pesky habit. They are adept at hiding behind a complex cloak of anxiety, dread, and condescension. This makes it difficult to track the actual issue while being patient.

Nevertheless, problem-solving skills are essential. And mastering these skills gets easier with practice. So, here are the 5 hacks that will help you get better at problem-solving.

1. Understand the root of the problem

This seems like a rudimentary suggestion. However, when dealing with a problem, we get so overwhelmed by everything surrounding the problem we lose objectivity.

One way to bring the focus back to the core problem is by asking as many questions as possible. Analyzing the situation correctly requires you to collect sufficient data. And the data comes from asking the right questions.

You never seem to fulfill your resolution of working out in the morning.
- Ask yourself why. Maybe because you cannot wake up on time.
- Why can’t you wake up on time? Maybe because you slept late.
- Why did you sleep late? Maybe because you could not stop scrolling through your social media feed.

At first glance, working out has nothing to do with Instagram. However, with repeated probing, you can reach the root of the trouble, which makes it easier to take corrective measures.

2. Analyze every possible solution

Instead of taking action on the first solution that comes to mind, list down multiple options. Being impulsive can often lead to an impractical solution that will not yield desirable results. You will feel more confident about resolving the issue when you have more than one option.

Do not stress about coming up with only the best ideas. The first draft of possible solutions is all about quantity rather than quality. No matter how stupid you think your answer is, jot it down. Weigh the pros and cons of each. Visualize their impact in the near future and the long term. Start eliminating the ones with less practical options until you are left with your final solution.

3. Take a different approach

You cannot expect different results by doing the same thing. When something seems to bother you, again and again, it is time to attack the obstacle from a different angle.

If you always think about cooking at home but end up opting for takeouts anyway, time to find new ways that will motivate you. Follow some delicious recipe pages on the social media app you frequently visit. Nothing will compel you to test your culinary skills more than those mouth-watering visuals. Alternatively, you can find which of your friends love cooking. Hearing them talk about their passion will fuel your desire to don the chef’s hat.

4. Focus on finding the solution

- Why does this only happen to me?
- There is no way I can get out of this mess.
- What if I fail at this?

We often get tangled in negativity when faced with a challenge. Instead of getting fixated on the complexity of the problem, shift your attention to the solution.

Problems have negative emotions attached to them, which overpower our rational thoughts. Focusing on the solution means you have already accepted there is an answer to this puzzle. It reinforces positive thoughts and helps you tackle the challenge without losing calm.

5. Practice active listening

Active listening is necessary for many areas of your life, not just problem-solving. Once people around you realize you actually hear and understand what they say, they actively start participating in the conversations. This often results in efficient solutions to complex issues.

You will get the perspective of other people, which is often a key to the answer. It also gives you ideas on how to solve many future problems before they arise.

We often feel there is no solution to a problem. The reality is we just haven’t found the solution yet. And that does not mean there is no solution. We also thought there was nothing beyond the Earth. Now that’s not true, is it?

Do you have any other tips to add to the list? Let me know in the comments. And listen to my podcast for more such intriguing content.