Now that we have identified the issue as a problem, studied and researched the facts about the problem, understand what started the problem, and then knowing that we can fix the problem, we now need to decide a game plan and look for options and then determine the best option to choose to fix the problem.

There is more than one way to skin a cat and that old saying probably holds less meaning in today’s world than it did generations ago. Knowing that there is always more than one way to get to a destination, more than one right way to do things, there is going to be more than one way to attempt to solve a problem. If we go back to our math classes and think about problem solving, it really is very similar to solving personal problems.

1. State the facts: we did this when we identified the problem and the facts  in step one and step two.
2. Define the variables: what pieces of information do we need to know
3. Draw a picture: can we visualize how all the parts and pieces go together and how manipulating one area affects the entire issue?
4. Compare to a similar problem: here is where we start to rely on our knowledge, experience and wisdom and we can devise a probable solution to the problem.

If there is more than one solution is there more than one best solution? That poses an interesting question. If we solve the problem with the first solution, do we really want to go back and see if we can solve it again, probably not. We will look more closely at this in the last step where we review it.

The best way for now is the way that solves the problem.

Next: Try It