THE POWER OF A POSITIVE PROBLEM-SOLVING MINDSET

In this article we review the psychological processes you go through when faced with problems, and how to go about solving them with a positive mindset. 

There are two different ways that the brain chooses to solve problems. It can be a measured thought or calculation, or it can be gut instinct. With the first method your brain recalls memories, measures potential outcomes, filters through new information and finally decides on an appropriate response. Whereas gut instinct can be referred to as a mental reflex, similar to ‘fight or flight’. Every behaviour is a learned behaviour, which is what makes the idea of turning a problem into a positive so difficult to grasp. 

The Einstellung effect is a good example of a problem-solving trend that demonstrates the importance of not making assumptions when faced with a problem. More commonly referred to as ‘mental set’ or ‘entrenchment’, this barrier to problem-solving occurs when the problem solver becomes fixated on applying a strategy that has previously worked, but is not relevant or helpful to the current problem. 

Another common barrier to problem-solving is functional fixedness, when individuals fail to recognise that objects can be used for a purpose other than what they were designed for. If we can overcome this fixedness, then we can see that most objects have multiple potential purposes. 

Haste is another barrier. Various tests have shown that when individuals are given an incentive to solve a task quickly, they are less likely to solve the problem at all. 

A barrier we often refer to in neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) is called Confirmation Bias. In terms of problem-solving, this refers directly to an individual unintentionally viewing results and outcomes in such a way that they validate their preconceived ideas, even if the results and outcomes do not conclusively do so. 

See opportunities, not problems

STEP 1: To learn this behaviour, first accept that problems will happen no matter what you do to avoid them. Negative reactions to problems normally stem from the surprise thereof, but if you embrace the fact that, like it or not, problems will occur, you’re halfway towards accepting them as opportunities. Remember, problems are inevitable — it is only the intensity of the problem that changes. 

STEP 2: Stop making negative assumptions about the problem! If you are consumed by the consequences, your mind will not be able to open up to the positive potential. Because we have a natural tendency to assume the worst, it’s vital to practice this step on smaller problems, like knocking over a glass for example — the positive outcome is that we learn not to leave the glass on the edge of the table. 

STEP 3: Step three is distancing yourself from the problem as this will enable you to view the situation more objectively. Putting distance between yourself and the problem will allow you to avoid associating emotions with it and let clearer heads prevail. Once you’ve managed to distance yourself from the problem, you need to isolate the real threats of the situation; distinguish exaggerated scenarios from those with the potential to have a real impact. While we’re programmed to exaggerate — it makes evolutionary sense to over-prepare for worst case scenarios — this way of thinking is not necessarily conducive to survival in the modern world. 

STEP 4: Last, but not least, train your brain to not just react. It’s easy to instantly come up with a solution — the trick is coming up with a solution that will improve your response the next time you encounter something similar. Over time, you will eventually view problems in terms of the potential they offer for improvements, instead of the direct actions they require of you. 

Understanding that problems are a part of life and what the brain does when it’s trying to solve a problem, being cognisant of the potential barriers we face when problem-solving, and ultimately viewing problems with a positive mindset, will lead to a happier and more successful life.