Questions and answers lie within all of us. Though coming to a solution isn’t always easy. There is no golden rule to decision making and problem solving, particularly when it pertains to important personal decisions. Often times the most difficult questions to answer are those that pertain to who we are? How often do you ask yourself, “What do I want?” “How do I feel?” “What’s my purpose?” These questions can leave us feeling confused, threatened, and even vulnerable.
For this reason, it’s easy to neglect these questions and remain blind to our true nature. We must learn to take the risk of examining these important questions, even if it means we’ll get an answer we don’t immediately like or understand. Avoiding these types of questions is where the real problem lies. We must learn to acknowledge those things that aren’t working in our life before change can be made. Next time you are confused about what direction to take, or the purpose you are meant to fulfill, consider the below suggestions.
Three Principles to Solving any Problem-Knowledge, Courage, and Faith:
1) Knowledge
To know we have what it takes to solve any problem is a powerful source of self-empowerment. Knowledge refers to really understanding ourselves, and recognizing the vast potential we have to deal with any situation that may arise. Resilience and self-discipline are within all of us, we just need to develop these skills and believe in our capabilities. Everyone has had the moment when they hit rock-bottom. What did you do at this moment? If you’re reading this you most likely made it through in one piece and could do it again. People are like palm trees. We are made to weather the storm and bounce back. On the way to fulfilling your purpose you may fall down at times, but failure is a part of succeeding. Sometimes figuring out what doesn’t work is part of the journey to fulfilling your goals, dreams, and purpose. Recognizing your ability to bounce back and get up on your feet will help you deal with challenging areas you encounter.
2) Courage
The courage to take action and move forward is the next principle to solving any problem. Courage means that we are willing to take action toward a meaningful and worthy goal despite the personal risk involved. Being willing to take action despite fear is what provides the power to push through difficult situations and continue to see progress. Are you willing to accept the challenge when it’s presented? In order to see growth and progress in life it will take courage to push past fear.
3) Faith
The faith to stay committed and follow through is the last principle to overcoming any obstacle. Faith is knowing without a doubt that a resolution or solution will come. It may take time and energy, but faith provides the means to stay patient and resolute through the process. Think of someone you know that holds such a strong belief that no matter what counter perspective they hear they stay committed to their belief and conviction. This is what it means to have faith. If what you believe adds to the greater good, an unwavering faith is what will eventually get you to the desired outcome.
There is always another option
There is a critical thinking fallacy called the “false dilemma”. This is when we approach a problem using an “either/or” attitude, and are only able to perceive two possible options to solve the problem. The solution is either “this” or “that” and all other options seem to be neglected. There are always more than just two possible options. It just takes some critical thinking and contemplation to discover what would be the best solution. It can take time to really reflect on all the possibilities so don’t limit yourself by being rushed or impatient. Taking time to discover how a decision will impact you is crucial, and a good method to put any decision in perspective is the “10-10-10” principle. This principle asks you to examine how a decision will impact you in 10 minutes, 10 months, and 10 years. In this way, you are able to see the immediate, mid-range, and long-term implications of a decision. This is particularly important when you encounter decisions that have competing values and are both important.
Relax and keep composure
How do you handle an existential crisis? A natural response can be to “freak out”, jump to conclusions, and feel overwhelmed. Though urgency and haste only complicate the issue and lead to exacerbated stress. When we get emotionally overwhelmed we are less able to think clearly and openly about all the potential options. By relaxing and separating ourselves from the problem at hand, intuition can take over and send us the response we are waiting for. Stay confident that a solution will arise and simply “let go” of the problem. There is no use in ruminating and worrying about the issue when no immediate solution is present. Learn to relax and step away from the issue to allow creative thoughts and ideas to emerge from your unconscious mind. If the required insight doesn’t immediately appear, don’t fret and worry that a solution will never come. You never know when inspiration or insight will arrive and lead you in the exact direction you need to go.
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