What do you do if you're struggling to identify and analyze complex problems?

When dealing with a complex problem, the first move I would recommend is to get clear on the problem. As a CEO Coach, I find that often my clients are focused on a symptom and trying to find a solution too quickly. Given that many of them are highly action-oriented, they can be quick to jump into action. I would recommend that you slow down the action and get clear on what is the real problem you are trying to solve. Spending more time on scoping the problem will dramatically increase your chances of finding a better solution. As Albert Einstein famously said “If I had an hour to solve a problem I'd spend 55 minutes thinking about the problem and five minutes thinking about solutions."

My approach to coaching is exactly this. Identify the primarily problem at hand - and then pull it apart. What does it consist of? Which components can be delt with - and which are rooted deeper and maybe in other issues?

I find that breaking down the bigger picture into tangible smaller components is the only way to begin. It gives you a smaller zone of focus and allows you to niche down into where problems may begin or grow into bigger issues.

When identifying the components of the problem you get to identify which are within your circle of influence. Aka, which components are conditional and hence beyond your control and influence - and which are issues you can actually affect. This step will also lead to identifying the 'problem behind the problem', as in, what other circumstances may lay behind the current problem.

In this phase you can lend from the methodology of 'Design Thinking', as you, while analyzing the situation DO NOT jump to conclusions or start solving the immediate problem. Ask questions to your self like 'Is this the actual problem, or is there something else in the equation?' You will ease closer to finding the one problem to solve, that will affect most of the others.

Here I would suggest to use a range of other tools before SWOT. There are many good tools, the like of Structured Problem Solving. Find one that appeals to you - and your situation.

- and, critically, whether your own problem, or others: FOLLOW UP! The missing part of a lot of goal setting maneuvers, is the time-frame, and the subsequently follow up on the tasks relative to the set time frame.

When struggling with complex problem identification and analysis, also consider critical thinking skills, breaking down issues into manageable parts, seeking diverse perspectives, data-driven decision-making, brainstorming solutions, and testing hypotheses. Use problem-solving frameworks, collaborate with experts, gather relevant data, prioritize solutions based on impact/feasibility, and iterate as needed, enhancing problem-solving abilities and decision outcomes.