Here is a 10-step method you can use to think systematically.
With this method, you develop your critical thinking and problem solving techniques to genius levels.
1) CHANGE YOUR LANGUAGE ABOUT THE PROBLEM FROM NEGATIVE TO POSITIVE
Instead of using the word problem, use the word situation or call it a challenge or an opportunity.
The more positive your language is, the more confident and optimistic you will be when approaching any difficulty.
The more creative and insightful you will be in identifying creative solutions and breakthrough ideas.
2) DEFINE THE SITUATION OR PROBLEM CLEARLY
What exactly is the challenge you are facing?
What is causing you the stress and anxiety?
What is causing you to worry? Why are you unhappy?
Write it out clearly in detail.
3) USE CRITICAL THINKING TO APPROACH THE PROBLEM FROM SEVERAL DIFFERENT DIRECTIONS
Ask, “What else is the problem?” Don’t be satisfied with a superficial answer.
Look for the root cause of the problem rather than get sidetracked by the symptom.
Approach the problem from several different directions.
Brainstorm different solutions, because there are likely multiple solutions to the same problem, not just one.
4) CLEARLY DEFINE THE IDEAL SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM
What exactly must the solution accomplish?
What ingredients must the solution contain?
What would your ideal solution to this problem look like? Define the parameters clearly.
5) PICK THE BEST SOLUTION TO SOLVE YOUR CHALLENGE
Pick the best solution by comparing your various possible solutions against your problem, on the one hand and your ideal solution, on the other. What is the best thing to do at this time under the circumstances?
6) PREPARE FOR THE WORST POSSIBLE OUTCOME AND HOW TO OVERCOME IT.
Before you implement the decision, ask, “What’s the worst possible thing that can happen if this decision doesn’t work?” If your solution doesn’t work be ready to accept that and try something else.
7) MEASURE YOUR PROGRESS
Set measures on your decision. How will you know that you are making progress? How will you measure success? How will you compare the success of this solution against the success of another solution?
8) TAKE COMPLETE RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR DESCISION
Accept complete responsibility for implementing the decision.
Many of the most creative ideas never materialize because no one is specifically assigned the responsibility for carrying out the decision.
9) SET A DEADLINE FOR WHEN THINGS SHOULD BE SOLVED
A decision without a deadline is a meaningless discussion.
If it is a major decision and will take some time to implement, set a series of short-term deadlines and a schedule for reporting.
With the deadlines and sub-deadlines, you will know immediately if you are on track or if you are falling behind.
You can then use your creative thinking to alleviate further bottlenecks or choke points.
