Do you fail to take time solving problems? Many do and wonder what happens when their efforts fail. Here’s why taking your time matters, plus best ways to try.
“If I had 60 minutes to solve a problem, I’d spend 55 minutes defining it, and 5 minutes solving it.” – Albert Einstein.
Why It Matters to Take Time Solving Problems
Do you know why it makes sense to take time solving problems and learning how to cope with problems? Admittedly, there’s certainly no shortage of issues in everyday life. Yet, people often entangle themselves in unnecessary difficulties when they rush to get rid of the problem by attempting whatever solution comes to mind.
However, that’s no way to be an effective problem solver, and it detracts from your quality of life. But why does it matter to take your time solving problems? Since persistence pays off if you want to succeed, here are some answers.
Speed Leads to Error
Whenever I am in a hurry to solve a problem, I always regret it. For one thing, not taking the time to analyze what needs to be done most often leads me to try to jam through just any solution. That’s neither smart nor effective. Speed is never good – on the highway (going too fast, that is) or solving problems.
- Take your time. Your solutions will work better when you spend sufficient time getting the plan together.
- Besides, you’ll learn to stop worrying and enjoy life more if you take your time solving problems.
Failing to Take Time Solving Problems Means You’ll Likely Do It Over
The worst thing about rushing through a problem is that you’ll probably spend additional time doing it over. I’ve experienced this so often that it should be permanently etched in my brain. My dad’s voice tells me, “If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing your best.” He was right about many things, especially when taking the time to figure out the right approach.
The Problem Isn’t Solved
When you’re stuck, employing a halfhearted or ill-thought-out solution to a problem generally doesn’t solve it. Not only will you waste more time than if you’d carefully mapped out what steps to take and thought it through to calculate any what-if scenarios, but the problem remains.
- It is disheartening to see others’ disappointment when you, the supposed expert, only make things worse by being too hasty.
Failing to Take Time Solving Problems May Mean You’re Too Close to It
Another expression springs to mind: “You can’t see the forest through the trees.” How appropriate this is when you’re in the middle of a problem. You’re probably too close to be objective.
- Here’s where perspective is necessary. If you think the doorway needs to be only the size of the elephant’s tail, you’ll soon regret your entry/exit, which is too small.
- If you can’t see the big picture, considering all aspects of the problem, you need distance to help you see more clearly.
On the other hand, sometimes you’re close to or already at the solution. Harvard University researchers identified a phenomenon they call “prevalence-induced concept change.” This means even when the prevalence reduces, those whose job is to find and fix problems can’t tell when they’re solved.
Talking About It Can Help
You can’t always expect to have every answer or solution to problems. Whether big or small, when you doubt your ability to do anything right, talking about it with someone you trust can help.
- Getting an objective opinion about your situation and what you may need to consider is always sound advice.
- If nothing else, you’ll add space between you and the problem. Maybe that’s all you need to finalize the plan.
- Furthermore, your friends may be what you need now. Just as your support can help a friend cope with an emotional meltdown, they can be there for you when needed.
To Take Time Solving Problems: You May Need a Break
How often do you feel pressured to solve a problem? Are you out of creative ideas, time-constrained, or so physically and emotionally drained that any solution you try now is destined to fail? Just as being too close to a problem is counter-productive to solving it, so is attempting to resolve problems when you desperately need a break.
- Take a short hiatus from problem-solving to regain your energy, clear your head, and come back refreshed. Besides, you may benefit from these powerful reasons for quiet time.
- Also, after you take a break, you’ll be better able to maximize your time.
Besides, clearing your head is a good idea since problem-solving is part of the brain’s executive functioning ability. But you also need adequate nutrients, plenty of water, sufficient sleep, and lots of exercise. A healthy body leads to a healthy brain and better decision-making skills, especially in older adults.
In addition, other researchers say that rapid eye movement (REM) sleep enhances creative problem-solving. So, catch up on quality sleep to dream up innovative solutions.
Be Proud of Well-Crafted Solutions
Do you want to build a portfolio of practical solutions to common problems? When you take time solving problems so the plan is solid, the better the likely outcome. As your problem-solving repertoire grows, so does your self-esteem and self-confidence.
- Furthermore, you’re more likely to be seen as the go-to person for creative and effective problem solving.
- This is especially useful in organizations that prize employees who can accurately identify problems and determine the best solution.
However, such craft only comes with time and practice. In addition, sharing solutions can lead to much better outcomes. So, always take time solving problems, and your success will improve.
