FIND YOUR SOLUTION

Last chapter we did the necessary hard work, and we identified our problem. In this chapter, we will flesh out methods I know that will help you craft, or figure out how to get to your solution.
Now that you’ve worked on exercises to help you to identify the problem, the next step is finding a solution. So how do we do this? As humans, most of the time we instinctively know what a solution is.
For instance, here are a few problems and solutions that are easy to identify.

Problem: I’m sick.
Solution: Get better.

Problem: I’m hungry.
Solution: Eat food.

Problem: I’m in a dangerous situation.
Solution: Remove myself from that situation.

There are a number of instinctive solutions to problems that do not necessarily require coaching. It is important to note, however, that as the problems become more complex, your approach to solving them must also become more complex.

The exercises in this chapter will help us identify solutions to more complex problems. You may find that the pursuit of a solution is part of the solution to your problems.

It is important that you believe it, feel it, and let the pursuit of the solution serve as part of the solution to your problems. Allow the process of discovering your solution and the journey towards it to fill you with a sense of fulfillment that you have never experienced before.

It is now possible to find a solution to all your problems. You will only be able to live in the present moment when you possess the spirit, the soul, and the heart of a soldier, with the ferocity of a lion. As a result, you can begin to believe that it is possible.

The purpose of this chapter is to provide an explanation of how such a solution might look. However, it is important to remember that to reach the point where you can apply the solution, you must trust both the process and this new, holistic approach to life that represents the Power of Four.

A COGNITIVE APPROACH

Cognitive approaches to therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), have been proven to be effective in treating mental health issues like depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and more.
A meta-analysis of 269 studies found that cognitive approaches, including CBT, were more effective than other types of therapy or no therapy in treating anxiety and depression (Hofmann et al., 2012). Another meta-analysis of 23 studies found that cognitive approaches were effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD (Lee et al., 2016). Similarly, a meta-analysis of 32 studies found that cognitive approaches were effective in treating OCD (Olatunji et al., 2013).
The American Psychological Association (APA) recognizes CBT as an evidence-based treatment for several mental health issues, including anxiety disorders, depression, and PTSD (APA, 2017). In the UK, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends CBT as a treatment for many mental health conditions (NICE, 2018).
What’s more, cognitive approaches to therapy are practical and accessible. Unlike other types of therapy that may take longer, CBT is often shorter in duration and can be delivered in various formats, including individual or group therapy, self-help books, and even online therapy (Andersson, 2016). This makes cognitive approaches to therapy a more affordable and accessible option for many people.

IDENTIFYING THE PROBLEM

When facing a problem, it’s important to approach it in a constructive manner. Here are some tips to help you effectively tackle any challenge:
To begin with, we need to ask ourselves: do we really have a problem here? Sometimes, we create problems in our own heads and make mountains out of molehills. It’s important to assess whether the problem is worth our energy and time.

● Ask yourself if the problem is real or if you are imagining it.

● Determine if the problem is something that really matters in the grand scheme of things.

Accept the Problem:

● Once we have identified the problem, it’s important to accept it and avoid resisting it. This helps us to stop adding more energy to the problem and instead focus on finding a solution.

● Acknowledge that the problem exists and avoid denying it.

● Stop feeding the problem by putting your energy into finding a solution.

Seek Guidance and Advice:

● When we are facing a problem, it’s important to seek guidance and advice from people who have been in similar situations. You can also ask for more practical assistance, such as having someone by your side to make life easier, even if it’s just for emotional support.

● Reach out to people who can provide guidance and advice.

● Ask for practical assistance to help you cope with the problem.

Find Creative Solutions:

● Once you have accepted the problem and sought guidance, it’s important to put your energy into finding creative solutions. This involves thinking outside the box and considering new perspectives.

● Be open to different ideas and perspectives.

● Try to come up with creative solutions that you may not have considered before. Approach Problems with a Positive and Proactive Mindset:

● Finally, it’s important to approach problems with a positive and proactive mindset. This involves being optimistic and taking action to address the problem, rather than letting it define you.

● Have a positive attitude and outlook.

● Take action towards a solution rather than letting the problem consume you.

The 85 Percent Rule:

● The 85 Percent Rule suggests using 85% of your time to find solutions, while only spending 15% of your time complaining, worrying, or showing extreme concern.

● This approach is more beneficial for you and others than the opposite.

Breaking Down Problems:

● Breaking a problem down into smaller pieces can decrease anxiety and help you think more clearly.

● To do this, identify the different parts of the problem and figure out one practical solution you can take for each of those parts.

Finding Opportunity and Lessons

● Finding the opportunity and/or lesson within the problem can reduce its negative emotional impact.

● Sometimes, a problem can alert us to a great way to improve our business or relationships or teach us how our lives perhaps aren’t as bad as we thought.

● Asking yourself questions like “What is the good thing about this?” or “What can I learn from this?” can help you find the hidden opportunity within the problem.

CONFIDENCE IS KEY

Try to be confident that there’s a solution right around the corner.
We are close to a solution if we believe, believe, believe.
In 2018, research has shown that motivation increases when you are confident that you will receive the reward or outcome that you desire. In order to develop this type of positive thinking, you will need to first build your self-esteem, so that you will be confident about your ability to solve problems.

Take a proactive approach.

Provide proactive solutions to future problems. It is always a good idea to think ahead and anticipate potential obstacles. For example, suppose you have a large math exam today and only a limited amount of time to complete it. If one of your pencils breaks, be sure to bring an additional one.
Consider it a challenge.

Rather than considering your problem an inconvenience, consider it a challenge. In this way, you will be able to take control of the situation. Stoicism advocates focusing on the things we can control and turning every obstacle into an opportunity for growth.
Consult the experts.

A good problem-solver doesn’t always try to figure things out alone. Some of the greatest Athletes and CEOs, most of them all have coaches. Sometimes you need help and expert advice. For instance, if you’re trying to fix an appliance, call someone you know who’s done it before.
Move forward instead of complaining.

Complaining uses a lot of energy and makes you feel even worse. Let’s say you have three meetings to attend in one day. Instead of complaining about how much you have to do, start working on a time management solution.
Take responsibility. Sometimes, our plans fail, and that’s OK. This is a part of life. Successful people get back on their feet and try again. Look for the lessons in each mistake or perceived failure. Be careful not to blame another person, because this makes you feel less in control.

FINDING YOUR SOLUTION

“Sometimes the pursuit of the solution is part of the answer to your problems.” – Eric Viskovicz

As you embark on the journey to finding a solution, remember to let it fill you with a powerful sense of capability. Believe that you are near the solution, and live with the spirit, soul, and heart of a lion. Trust the process and the holistic approach to life in this program to help guide you towards your goal.

Take inspiration from the stories of those who have gone before you. Libraries and bookstores are filled with accounts of people who gained the strength and wisdom they needed as they worked towards finding solutions to their problems. Civil Rights and Women’s Rights workers are just a few examples of modern-era individuals who struggled for a solution and ultimately succeeded.

Remember, no one begins their journey with all the skills and tools they need to succeed. People with chronic illnesses often develop the ability to advocate for themselves as they search for answers. Similarly, as you work through the program and analyze your problem, you’ll begin to develop the tools you need to find your solution.

It’s natural to feel aimless or inept at first, but don’t let that discourage you. Transform your answers from past exercises into solid tools. Consider the patterns at play and what you’ve learned about your goals, insecurities, and priorities. You’re bringing plenty of skills to the table, and your answers provide a unique view of not only your problem but also the strengths and weaknesses you bring to this solution-focused work. Keep pushing forward and trust the process.