What do call someone who has no problems? Answer, deceased. We all have problems from finding the lost remote control to implementing a major change at work that affects many people in many ways. Ever stop to think about how you resolve problems? Do you just follow instinct, do you have a certain approach for particular situations or do you act like an ostrich and bury your head in the sand, pretend the problem doesn’t exist and hope it goes away? Chances are if you are being honest, you will adopt different approaches depending on the situation. Here is a little insight into problems and some suggestions on how to apply a structure to help you resolve problems and hopefully make better decisions in the future.

When faced with a problem, you have 4 options. (1) Do nothing and hope the problem solves itself. (2) Monitor situation and a period of time to observe changes (3) Deal with the effects if dealing with the cause just isn’t worth the hassle or would cost too much and (4) Try to solve it immediately. All 4 options are perfectly acceptable in certain circumstances however the key is to select your option consciously and only after giving due consideration to all 4 options. It is easy to develop the habit of turning to just one option on a consistent basis. This however prevents you from exploring all options and could mean making a poor decision.

Using your imagination is particularly useful to help resolve achievement problems but may also be used to resolve maintenance problems. To solve an achievement problem new ideas need to be generated, the current way of doing things needs to be questioned and a better or totally new way found. One great way to use your imagination to problem solve is by using mind mapping techniques which were developed by Mr. Tony Buzzan. This involves getting a blank sheet of plain A4 paper and writing a short description of the problem in the middle of the page. Now, take 10-20 minutes and start writing key words that come into your head when you think about the problem. Words can be put anywhere at random around the page. When you can’t think of any more words, focus your attention on each of the words already on the page and write down any new words that come to mind. By keeping the words and phrases you write short and by not censoring any ideas, you allow the creative part of your brain to perform at an optimum level. This can also be done in a group but it would be advised that you use a larger (e.g. A1) sheet of paper on a table that everyone can walk around. Once you have filled the page, review the words and look for themes or connections between words. Also encourage a discussion amongst the group (if there is one) to explain reasons certain words were put down. Note any ideas or suggestions that come from this process. Once you have what you feel are viable options, answer the following questions for each: (1) Is this workable (financially / time wise)? (2) On a scale of 1-5 how viable is this option? (3) Again on a scale of 1-5 how risky is this option? (4) What can be done to minimise risk? (5) What is the probability of an undesirable outcome? Once you have evaluated each option by answering the questions above, select the best option and commit to it. Take some action immediately to start addressing the problem. Take time to plan the implementation of your solution and keep taking action until the solution is fully implemented. Track and monitor progress and review outcomes on a regular basis to ensure you are staying on track.

If you would like to learn more about problem solving, mind mapping or indeed how we at Synergy Coaching Services work with our clients to resolve the major problems and challenges in their lives and in their businesses, please contact me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it tel: 061-467287

Fergal O’Connor is a Business and Personal Life Coach working in partnership with his Business and Private clients providing a supportive, confidential, challenging and non-judgemental environment to make their ambitions and dreams a reality. Fergal also facilitates a range of Management training programs and is available for public speaking engagements. Fergal can be contacted at Synergy Coaching Services, Tel: (061) 467287, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it