How To Develop A Solver’s Mentality To Overcome Problems

Last week, I wrote about taking 100% responsibility for your actions. This week, I wanted to address what kind of mentality you can have to make it easier when taking responsibility. This means to stop making excuses for yourself or blaming others for your predicaments. The way to do this is to develop what I like to call a solver’s mentality.

What is a Solver’s Mentality?

A solver’s mentality is essentially the mindset of a problem-solver. It’s the way somebody who is adept at solving and overcoming problems looks at current situations.

How Does This Tie in With Taking Responsibility for Your Actions?

If you develop a solver’s mentality, you won’t get bogged down on who is to blame when a situation goes awry. Instead, your mind will immediately shift to the logical perspective – how do I fix the situation at hand? You will quickly accept that what’s done is done and there is no changing it. The only thing to do now is to move forward and try to do damage control.

How Can I Develop a Solver’s Mentality?

There is no sure-fire, one-size-fits-all, way to develop a solver’s mentality. Below, however, are some steps you can take.

When a problem occurs:

1. When something goes wrong the first thing you think to yourself should be: How do I fix this problem?
2. Think about what caused the issue to occur in the first place. Often, the solution can be found by going back to the root of the problem.
3. Look at the problem from different perspectives and angles. Sometimes you cannot see the solution because you are only looking at it from one perspective, yours.
4. Think if there is anyone that can help you with the problem. Usually somebody more experienced who may have gone through something similar in the past.
5. Think about what steps you can take to avoid this problem from reoccurring in the future.

In the meantime:

1. Constantly be curious.
2. Be observant of your surroundings.
3. Listen to other people’s problems, and solutions, so you are prepared if the same thing ever happens to you.

Best,

Eric