What do you do if your problem-solving process hits a roadblock?

Problem solving is a valuable skill that can help you overcome challenges and achieve your goals. However, sometimes you may encounter a roadblock that prevents you from finding a solution. A roadblock is any obstacle that hinders your progress, such as lack of information, conflicting opinions, limited resources, or emotional stress. How do you deal with a roadblock and resume your problem-solving process? Here are some tips to help you.

1 Identify the roadblock

The first step is to identify the nature and source of the roadblock. Is it internal or external? Is it related to the problem itself, the process, or the people involved? Is it temporary or permanent? By asking yourself these questions, you can clarify the issue and determine its impact on your problem-solving process. You can also use tools such as SWOT analysis, root cause analysis, or brainstorming to identify the roadblock.

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Samson Ikhayere

Championing Change: Microbiologist on a Mission for Public Health and Social Impact!
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As the saying goes, understanding the problem is often the first step toward solving it. I recently encountered a challenging situation where I found myself facing what seemed like an insurmountable roadblock. One of the things I did that helped was I had to reflect deeply on the cause of the issues rather than focusing on the effect. This is one way to always over a roadblock.

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2 Seek feedback and support

The second step is to seek feedback and support from others who can offer different perspectives, insights, or resources. You can ask for advice, suggestions, or opinions from your colleagues, mentors, experts, or stakeholders. You can also collaborate with others who have similar or complementary skills, experiences, or goals. By seeking feedback and support, you can gain new ideas, information, or solutions that can help you overcome the roadblock.

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3 Adapt and improvise

The third step is to adapt and improvise your problem-solving process based on the feedback and support you received. You may need to modify your goals, criteria, or methods to suit the new situation. You may also need to try alternative or creative approaches that can bypass or overcome the roadblock. For example, you can use techniques such as lateral thinking, analogies, or reverse engineering to generate novel solutions.

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Alaa Mohamed Foued DERDOUR

Compliance & CMC Manager - Qualified Person Deputy at LDM Groupe
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When encountering a roadblock in problem-solving, it's crucial to pause and reflect on whether the current approach is effective or if alternative strategies need to be explored. This could involve breaking down the problem into smaller, more manageable components to better understand its complexities. Seeking inspiration from similar situations or entirely unrelated fields can offer fresh perspectives and innovative solutions. Additionally, experimenting with different problem-solving techniques allows for flexibility and adaptability in overcoming obstacles. The key is to maintain an open mind, remain adaptable to change, and persevere in finding a viable solution despite the setback.

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4 Evaluate and learn

The fourth step is to evaluate and learn from your problem-solving process and the roadblock. You can assess the effectiveness, efficiency, and feasibility of your solutions. You can also reflect on the challenges, opportunities, and lessons that the roadblock presented. By evaluating and learning, you can improve your problem-solving skills, avoid or prevent future roadblocks, and celebrate your achievements.

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Akshaansh Chilakapati

Aerospace Engineering Grad Student @ UIUC | Engineer | Multifaceted Problem Solver | Professional Speedcuber
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Just like with any roadblock, you're looking for a route diversion that temporarily puts you on a parallel road to get you back to your intended road. Analogously, a diversion here is a different approach to the same problem (in parallel) that eventually gets you back to your intended path, which is your desired solution. It works wonders if exercised meticulously and it truly helps to view things from a different perspective (it's like thinking out of the box, except you're still touching the box).

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5 Take a break

The fifth step is to take a break from your problem-solving process if the roadblock is too overwhelming or stressful. You can use this time to relax, recharge, or distract yourself from the problem. You can also engage in activities that can boost your mood, creativity, or motivation, such as meditation, exercise, or hobbies. By taking a break, you can reduce your frustration, anxiety, or fatigue and regain your focus, confidence, or enthusiasm.

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Vijender Yadav

Building People-First Work Environments --- Gain a roadmap for tackling your toughest leadership challenges
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Taking a break from problem-solving is like pausing during a long journey to catch your breath. You can step back, breathe deeply, and relax your mind, just like resting under a shady tree. Engage in activities that bring you joy, like playing with friends or exploring nature's beauty. By taking a break, you can return refreshed and ready to tackle challenges with renewed energy and clarity, like a river flowing smoothly after a gentle rain.

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6 Seek help

The sixth step is to seek help from a professional or a trusted person if the roadblock is affecting your mental or physical health. You may need to consult a counselor, therapist, coach, or doctor who can provide you with emotional, psychological, or medical support. You may also need to confide in a friend, family member, or partner who can offer you empathy, encouragement, or comfort. By seeking help, you can cope with the roadblock and protect your well-being.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What do you do if your problem-solving process hits a roadblock?

1

2

3

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1 Identify the roadblock

2 Seek feedback and support

3 Adapt and improvise

4 Evaluate and learn

5 Take a break

6 Seek help

7 Here’s what else to consider

Problem Solving

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What do you do if your problem-solving process hits a roadblock?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Identify the roadblock

2 Seek feedback and support

3 Adapt and improvise

4 Evaluate and learn

5 Take a break

6 Seek help

7 Here’s what else to consider

Problem Solving

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