What Makes a Good Problem Solver?

Amy Taylor November 26, 2013

Some people are endowed with a very special gift – the ability to solve problems quickly and intelligently. When difficulties arrive, they don’t panic or feel anxious about it. Rather, they face it with open arms – looking at them as challenges they can surpass, no matter what.

You, too, can become a good problem-solver. By examining the traits and characteristics of effective problem solvers, and incorporating them in your life, you can develop greater resilience against the everyday difficulties you encounter.

Here are the major characteristics of good problem solvers:

They are able to specifically identify what the problem is. Ask a good problem solver why he or she is upset and they are more likely to give you an answer real quick. In order to come up with a good resolution for the problem, you first want to know what specifically it is that’s bothering you. It may require giving yourself sometime to be alone to carefully assess your feelings and emotions.

They look at problems as challenges. Good problem solvers consider setbacks in life as opportunities and they try to learn from them. Yes, some difficulties are really unbearable but they shouldn’t hinder you from moving forward, because sometimes, problems are actually opportunities in disguise.

They are not afraid to explore possibilities. Good problem solvers are ‘out-of-the-box’ thinkers. That is, they are not scared to go out of their comfort zones and explore more options to resolve the problem at hand. Don’t allow yourself to get trapped into a fixated mindset. Address the problem with open eyes and don’t be afraid to explore other options. The more, the merrier.

They have reasonable expectations. Good problem solvers understand that there are many things that could affect the situation and therefore an idealistic way of thinking is counterproductive. Being realistic is not the same with being pessimistic. It’s not really a bad idea to not expect too much.

They have a ‘can do’ attitude. No matter how hard the situation is, effective problem solvers don’t easily give up on the challenges they face. Here’s the thing – they believe that if there’s a will, there’s a way. Just because the issue appears to be complicated and impossible to solve doesn’t mean you can’t ever resolve it. With adequate preparation, the right answer will emerge.

They seek long-term solutions. Good problem solvers are not fans of ‘quick fixes’. When confronted with difficulties, they choose the one which could provide long-term, if not permanent solutions. Avoid symptomatic problem solving. It’s like a bad dentistry that leaves part of the decay untouched. Over time, the same problem would occur, and when it comes, it it’s the worst.

They have a system. Problem solving is a process – a scientific process that involves a step-by-step procedure. Consider the DACR/S method (Describe, Analyse, Conclude, and Recommend/Resolve). This can guide you to a great resolution for the problem without causing you panic or anxiety.

They don’t create problems for others. Effective problem solvers know that they don’t need to cause problems to others just to get their own problems solved. In fact, they understand that more solutions are waiting if they will connect with others, especially the people who value and care about them, like their friends and family. It’s a good idea to confide with people you trust. They may have gone through a similar problem you are having now and could give you advice. Or, you can talk to a professional therapist for guidance.

They listen to their intuition. When things are getting a little more confusing, good problem solvers use their gut-level feelings about the situation. They listen to their inner self, hypothesize, test and re-test.

Being able to resolve problems effectively is a skill that can greatly help you succeed in all aspects of life – career, business, relationship, health and finances. But developing this skill does not come automatically. You need to practice it each day and at the same time, cultivate and develop the above traits. In time, you will be surprised of how good your problem solving skills have become.