Are you in the middle of what seems like an unsolvable problem?  You catch yourself saying that there could be no other solution to a problem – and that problem leads to a dead end.  You know as a boomer woman that you’ve spent your life solving problems.  However you’re feeling stumped knowing that the problem before you is one you cannot solve. No leads.  No options.  No solutions.

Does it feel like you have exhausted all possible options and still looming before you is the mountain – large, unconquerable, and impregnable? When a boomer woman encounters such enormous problems, the pressure of having to solve it may be overwhelming.

But rejoice! There’s hope yet!

A boomer woman using some creative problem-solving techniques you may be able to look at your problem in a different light. Wouldn’t you just love to see the light at the end of the tunnel that leads to possible solutions?

Creative problem-solving for a boomer woman you must first be open-minded to the fact that there may be more than just one solution to the problem. And, it’s important to open your mind to that there may be solutions to problems you thought were unsolvable.

Now, with this boomer woman optimistic mindset, you can begin to creatively problem-solve.

Steps in problem-solving for a boomer woman

  1. Have you taken a really hard look at the problem as a boomer woman to see what the problem is?   As a boomer woman understanding the problem and its workings is basic to solving the problem. If you know how it works, what the problem is, then you have a better foundation towards solving IT.
  2. Write out a simple statement of what the problem is.  Identify all of the parts and  their relationship to each other.  Pay attention to what you will gain and lose if  the problem is not solved.  This is your simply statement.
  3. Notice all of the limitations and beliefs you have towards the problem. For a boomer woman these assumptions can obstruct your view of possible solutions. Identify which beliefs are valid and which are not.
  4. Solve the problem by using the jigsaw puzzle approach.  Look at the overall problem just as you would the picture of a jigsaw puzzle.  Working from the outside in solves the problem going from general towards the more detailed parts.
  5. Critical thinking during problem-solving is important as well as keeping a creative, analytical voice at the back of your head. When a boomer woman comes up with a prospective solution, think how you could make that solution work. At the same time, look for faults in that solution.
  6. Remember that solutions can develop simultaneously.  Have a way of keeping track of all the solutions and their developments. The more solutions you have the easier it is to choose the one that fits your boomer woman lifestyle.
  7. Boomer women are so accustomed to doing things their way and often in a vacuum; remember that old adage,” two heads are better than one.”  That is truer than it sounds.  You don’t have to problem-solve alone.  Always be open to new ideas. You can benefit from listening to others’ ideas especially if you’re talking to one who has had experience solving problems similar to yours.
  8. Be patient, I know for many boomers this is not your strong suite!  Perseverance is the key to having a solution present itself.  Give yourself a timeline but be don’t beat yourself up if the solution doesn’t present itself as soon as you’d like.

Next time you see a problem you think unsolvable, think again. The solution might just be staring you right in the face.  It only takes just a little creative thinking, some planning, and the willingness to stick with it until it is solved.

Have you had a problem you thought was unsolvable and found a solution?  Will you share your process with us?