Five Steps in Solving the Problems:

1) Write Down Exactly What The Problem Is:

Don’t just think about it. Write it down. Write it down exactly, precisely, and concisely.

Charles Kettering, the great inventive genius of General Motors, Said, “A problem well stated is a problem half solved.’

2) Write Down Exactly What Are The Cause of The Problem:

Get the facts. Get ALL the facts. Be sure the facts are exact, clear, objective and impartial, not select to bolster some preconceived opinion. Especially, if you do have a preconceived opinion, be sure that you get all the facts that do NOT support your pre-judgment, as well as those which do.

Herbert Hawkes of Columbia University taught, “Half the worry in the world is caused by people trying to make decisions before they have sufficient knowledge on which to base a decision. If a man will devote his time to securing knowledge in an impartial objective way, his worries will usually evaporate in the light of knowledge.”

3) Write Down Every Possible Effective Solution:

Be sure each possible solution of your problem is impartial result of “trying the case” from both side by first pretending you are the lawyer trying the case FOR the solution, then imagining you are the lawyer trying the case AGAINST the solution. Then if the solution still appears to be effective, include it in your list.

4) Decide Definitely Which Solution To Put Into Effect:

If you have carefully analyzed pros and cons of each solution as recommended in the preceding step (3), then your final decision should be relatively easy. If it still is difficult to decide, and if you have time, feed all of your possible solution into your “mental computer” (subconscious mind) and let it work on the solutions in its own way for the next few days and nights. Meanwhile relax. The best solution will soon become clear and definite in your mind. Then decide that THAT is your best solution and that you will put it into effect, forgetting all others.

5) Start Immediately To Put That Solution Into Effect And Persist Vigorously:

All the previous steps will get you nowhere unless they end in immediate, definite and vigorous action, and when once you begin to act, don’t look back over your shoulder. Go right ahead; see it through.

You’ll never get better instructions than from famous William James, who taught, “When once a decision is reached and execution is the order of the day, dismiss absolutely all responsibility and care (anxiety) about the outcome”

If you have conscientiously put into effect all of the preceding five steps in this Problem Solving Method, you can be sure the outcome will be very satisfactory.

Ref. Book: “Thoughts to Build On”