Adventures in Creative Thinking

Too often, we approach our problems with a narrow approach that does more to hinder our progress than it does to help us find a solution. How many times have you thought to yourself that a problem has only one solution and that thinking leads us to a dead end? How many times have you felt stumped believing that you cannot solve the problem?

Did it feel like you had exhausted all possible options? When encountering such enormous problems, you may feel like you're pushing a boulder uphill. The pressure of having to solve such a problem may be overwhelming.

Using creative problem-solving techniques you may be able to look at your problem in a different light. And that light might just be the end of the tunnel that leads to possible solutions.

First of all, to apply creative problem-solving, you must be open-minded to the reality that there may be more than only one solution to the problem. And, you must be open to the fact that there may be solutions to problems you thought were unsolvable.

Now, with this optimistic mindset, we can try to be more creative in solving our problems.
1. Possibly, the reason we cannot solve our problems is that we have not really taken a hard look to really identify the problem. Here, trying to understanding the problem and having a concrete understanding of its workings is integral to solving the problem. If you sufficiently identify the problem, then you have a better foundation towards solving the problem. Try to identify the participating entities and what their relationships are to one another. Take note of the things you stand to gain and stand to lose from the current problem. Now you have a simple statement of what the problem is.
2. Try to take note of all constraints and assumptions you have toward problem. Sometimes these assumptions obstruct our view of possible solutions. You have to identify which assumptions are valid, which are not valid, and which assumptions need to be addressed, and in what priority.
3. Try to solve the problem in parts. Solve the problem starting from the general toward the more detailed parts of the problem. This is called the top-down approach. Write down the question, and then come up with a one-sentence solution. The solution should be a general statement of what will solve the problem. From there you can develop the solution further, and increase its complexity little by little.
4. Although it helps to utilize critical thinking as you solve a problem, you must also keep a creative voice involved. When someone comes up with a possible solution, try to think how you could make that solution work for you. Try to be creative. At the same time, examine the weaknesses of that solution.
5. It pays to remember that there may be more than just one solution being developed at the same time. Try to keep track of all the solutions and their developments. Remember, there may be more than just one solution to the problem.
6. Remember that old adage, "two heads are better than one." That statement is truer than it sounds. Always be open to new ideas. You can only benefit from listening to all the ideas each person has. This is especially true when the person you're talking to has had experience solving problems similar to yours. You don't have to be a lone ranger, solo hero to solve the problem. If you can organize collective thought on the subject, it would be much better.
7. Be patient. As long as you persevere, chances are that a solution will present itself. Remember that no one perfected an invention on the first try.
8. Creative thinking exercises can also help you in your quest be a more creative problem solver. Here’s an example. Take a piece of paper and in the center of the paper write any word that comes to mind. Now look at that word, then write the first two words that come to your mind. This can go on until you can build a tree of related words. This helps you build analogical skills to fortify your creative thinking.

So, next time you see a problem you think you cannot solve, think again. The solution might just be staring you right in the face. All it takes is just a little creative thinking, some planning, and work.