When we encounter problems, two specific points of focus are available to us. Problem Focus and Solution Focus. Focusing on the problem allows us to analyze what it is that is standing in our way. Whether it is people, lack of time, lack of resources, missing information and more. Focusing on the solution allows us to analyze how we can go about changing the present situation in order to be able to move on. Both are important, but the more we focus on the problem, the less time we have for creating a solution.
Why is it important?
While a problem focus can provide a clear picture of the situation at hand, the solution focus is necessary in order to propose hypotheses for dealing with the problem, as well as testing them. Furthermore, testing hypotheses also provides to valuable outcomes. In the best case scenario we come upon a solution that resolves the situation and the problem is no more. In scenario two we don’t find a solution, but we will uncover more information regarding the problem because we have now discovered one way to not resolve the situation. We have more information, and we know of one strategy, possibly more, that we no longer need to consider.
Next is a suggestion for problem solving based on applying the 80/20 rule. The 80/20 rule is based on the idea that we tend to focus more on the problem than the solution, and that by focusing on the solution at least 80% of the time we are more likely to resolve the situation at hand successfully.
Example: 1 hour
The idea in this exercise is to spend no more than 20% focusing on the problem, and the remainding 80% in a solution focused state of mind.
How it can be done?
Decide on a problem, challenge, or situation that needs to be resolved. Before starting the exercise it can be fruitful to identify which result you want to achieve, as well as identifying why you want this specific result. Next up will be an actual plan of action for a solution, and that will be the focus of the exercise.
Take 1 hour to work on the problem and do the following:
- Take 12 minutes to work on the problem. That’s 20%
- Take 48 minutes to work on the solution. That’s 80%
Additionally you might want to have a reminder every once in a while to make sure you’re working on the solution during the 48 minute session. Use your computer, cell phone, or have a team coordinator help out if you’re doing this exercise with a team. That way you’ll condition yourself to stay in “solution mode” as much as possible during the 48 minutes. Without reminders it’s easy to fall back into problem focus, which is why I describe this as a conditioning process. The more you do it, the better you become.