More than one way of creative thinking

 How many times have you ever caught yourself saying that there might be no other solution to a problem – which that problem results in a dead-end? How many times have you ever felt stumped knowing that the problem laying before you is one you can't solve. No leads. No options. No solutions.

Did it feel like you had exhausted all possible options and yet are still before the mountain – large, unconquerable, and impregnable? When encountering such enormous problems, you'll feel like you're hammering against a steel mountain. The pressure of getting to solve such a problem could also be overwhelming.

But rejoice! There might be some hope yet!

With some creative problem-solving techniques you'll be able to look at your problem in a different light. And that light might just be the top of the tunnel that ends up in possible solutions.

First of all, in the light of creative problem-solving, you must be open-minded to the fact that there could also be quite only one solution to the problem. And, you want to be open to the very fact that there could also be solutions to problems you thought were unsolvable.

Now, with this optimistic mindset, we will attempt to be a little bit more creative in solving our problems.

Number one; maybe the reason we cannot solve our problems is that we've not taken a hard look into what the problem is. Here, trying to understanding the problem and having a concrete understanding of its workings is integral to solving the problem. If you know how it works, what the problem is, then you have a better foundation towards solving the problem.

Not trying to form a straightforward statement of what the problem is. Try to identify the participating entities and what their relationships with each other are. Take note of the items you stand to gain any stand to lose from the current problem. Now you have a simple statement of what the problem is.

Number two; try and note all of the constraints and assumptions you have the words of problem. Sometimes it's these assumptions that obstruct our view of possible solutions. You have to spot which assumptions are valid, in which assumptions got to be addressed.

Number three; attempt to solve the problem by parts. Solve it going from a general view towards the more detailed parts of the problem. This is called the top-down approach. Write down the question, then come up with a one-sentence solution to that from them. The solution should be a general statement of what will solve the problem. From here you'll develop the answer further, and increase its complexity little by little.

Number four; although it helps to have critical thinking aboard as you solve a problem, you want to also keep a creative, analytical voice at the back of your head. When someone comes up with a prospective solution, tried to think about how you'll make that solution work. Try to be creative. At the same time, look for chinks within the armor of that solution.

Number five; it pays to remember that there could also be quite only one solution being developed on just one occasion. Try to keep track of all the solutions and their developments. Remember, there may be more than just one solution to the problem.

Number six; remember that old adage," two heads are better than one." That one is truer than it sounds. Always be open to new ideas. You can only enjoy listening to all the ideas that every person has. This is very true when the person you're talking to has had experience solving problems kind of like yours.

You don't need to be a gung-ho, solo hero to solve a problem. If you'll organize collective thought on the subject, it might be much better.

Number seven; be patient. As long as you persevere, there is always a chance that a solution will present itself. Remember that nobody was able to create an invention the first time around.

Creative thinking exercises also can help you in your quest to be a more creative problem solver.

Here is one example.

Take a piece of paper and write any word that comes to mind at the center. Now, look at that word then write the first two words that come to your mind. This can proceed until you'll build a tree of related words. This helps you build analogical skills, and fortify your creative processes.

So, next time you see a problem you think that you can not solve, think again. The solution might just be staring you right within the face. All it takes is simply a touch of creative thinking, some planning, and a whole lot of work.