Let’s talk about problem-solving. You know, that thing we all have to do every single day, whether it’s figuring out why your Wi-Fi is acting up, deciding what to make for dinner, or tackling a major work challenge. Sometimes, it feels easy. Other times, it feels like you’re trying to solve a Rubik’s Cube in the dark. (Spoiler: it’s frustrating.)
But here’s the thing: problem-solving is a skill. And like any skill, it can be improved. One of the best ways to sharpen your thinking is by asking the right questions. Questions are like flashlights—they help you see what’s hidden, clarify what’s confusing, and uncover solutions you might not have considered.
So, grab a notebook, a cup of coffee, and let’s dive into the problem-solver’s playbook. These 17 questions will help you tackle any problem with clarity, creativity, and confidence. Think of this as your friendly guide to thinking smarter, not harder.
1. What’s the Real Problem?
Often, what we think is the problem is just a symptom of something deeper. Dig deeper to find the root cause.
Example: Your team keeps missing deadlines. The real problem might not be laziness—it could be unclear expectations or poor communication.
2. What’s the Goal?
Before you can solve a problem, you need to know what success looks like. What are you trying to achieve?
Example: If you’re trying to improve customer satisfaction, your goal might be to reduce response times or increase positive reviews.
3. What’s Working?
Not everything is broken. Identify what’s already working and build on it.
Example: If your sales team is crushing it in one region, figure out what they’re doing right and replicate it elsewhere.
4. What’s Not Working?
Be honest about what’s not working. This is where the real opportunities for improvement lie.
Example: If your marketing campaign isn’t getting traction, maybe your messaging isn’t resonating with your audience.
5. What Are the Constraints?
Every problem has constraints—time, money, resources. Knowing your limits helps you focus on realistic solutions.
Example: If you’re planning an event on a tight budget, you’ll need to get creative with your spending.
6. Who Is Affected?
Consider the people involved. How does the problem impact them, and what do they need?
Example: If you’re solving a workplace issue, think about how it affects employees, managers, and customers.
7. What’s the Worst That Could Happen?
Sometimes, imagining the worst-case scenario can help you prepare—or realize that the problem isn’t as big as you thought.
Example: If you’re worried about launching a new product, ask yourself: What’s the worst that could happen? If the answer is “not much,” you might be overthinking it.
8. What’s the Best That Could Happen?
On the flip side, imagining the best-case scenario can motivate you and help you see the potential upside.
Example: If you’re considering a career change, think about how amazing it would feel to do work you truly love.
9. What Would [Insert Role Model] Do?
Put yourself in the shoes of someone you admire. How would they approach the problem?
Example: If you’re struggling with a creative block, ask yourself: What would Maya Angelou do?
10. What Assumptions Am I Making?
We all make assumptions, but they can cloud our thinking. Challenge them to see the problem more clearly.
Example: If you assume your team isn’t motivated, ask yourself: Is that really true, or are they just overwhelmed?
11. What’s the Simplest Solution?
Sometimes, the best solution is the simplest one. Don’t overcomplicate things.
Example: If you’re overwhelmed with tasks, maybe the solution is as simple as making a to-do list or delegating.
12. What’s the Most Creative Solution?
Push yourself to think outside the box. What’s the wildest, most unconventional idea you can come up with?
Example: If you’re trying to attract new customers, maybe you could host a flash mob or create a viral TikTok challenge.
13. What’s the Cost of Doing Nothing?
Sometimes, the best solution is to do nothing—but only if you’ve considered the consequences.
Example: If you’re debating whether to fix a leaky faucet, ask yourself: What’s the cost of ignoring it? (Hint: it’s probably higher than you think.)
14. What’s the First Step?
Big problems can feel overwhelming. Break them down into smaller, manageable steps.
Example: If you’re planning a big project, start by making a list of tasks and tackling the easiest one first.
15. What’s the Timeline?
Knowing your timeline helps you prioritize and stay on track.
Example: If you’re planning a wedding, figure out what needs to be done six months out, three months out, and so on.
16. What’s the Feedback?
Get input from others. They might see something you’ve missed.
Example: If you’re designing a new product, ask for feedback from potential customers early and often.
17. What’s the Lesson?
Every problem is an opportunity to learn. What can you take away from this experience?
Example: If a project didn’t go as planned, ask yourself: What did I learn, and how can I apply it next time?
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This
Problem-solving doesn’t have to be stressful or overwhelming. With the right questions, you can approach any challenge with clarity, creativity, and confidence. So, the next time you’re faced with a problem, take a deep breath, grab this playbook, and start asking questions.
Remember, you don’t have to have all the answers right away. Sometimes, just asking the right questions is enough to point you in the right direction.
Now go forth and solve those problems. You’ve got this. 🚀