Psychologists suggest that
you first understand the nature of the problem, like rearranging puzzle pieces
or putting things in proper order. Then, you need to keep an open mind to
possible solutions, even ones that may seem a bit out of the ordinary. In fact,
sometimes the more unusual, the better. We are all very prone to mental set,
and that can be a huge impediment to problem-solving. Finally, be ready to
start all over if your results were unsuccessful. Holding onto your first
answer, even if it’s not a very good one (known as the “confirmation bias”) can
impede you from ever coming up with a way out of your dilemma. Rushing ahead to
complete a problem is probably the biggest mistake that people make other than
procrastinating too long!
Good communication is the key to our interactions
with other people. When we think of how to communicate, we often focus on
spoken or written language. However, when it comes to language, it’s not just
what you say, but how you say it. For example, when you speak you, by
definition, must get your point across in linear fashion, meaning that the
first words you utter in a sentence will guide the listener
to understanding what will follow. Saying “I’m sorry” at the
beginning of a conversation will have a much greater impact, for example, then
throwing your apology in at the end of a long explanation. The
tone in which you speak lets your listener know whether you’re asking
a question or making a statement. However, if you’re like many people,
you may find that you speak your sentences as if they were questions. This can
make you sound less confident and can undercut your effectiveness
when you’re trying to convince someone to believe that you know what you’re
talking about. Your body language may say even more about you than
your verbal language. Most people fail to look others in the eye,
slouch, jiggle their hands and feet when they’re nervous, and reveal what
they’re really feeling inside through the tiny “microexpressions” on their
faces. Learn to control your body language, and you can control the impression
you make on others. The kinds of problems that psychology can help you solve
include a wide range of practical situations that confront people daily.
Whether it’s hooking up a new computer, fixing a broken electrical fixture,
arranging the order of foods to cook when you’re preparing a meal, or figuring
out the best route home, there are similar steps involved in being a good
problem-solver. Psychologists suggest that you first understand the nature of
the problem, like rearranging puzzle pieces or putting things in proper order.
Then, more importantly, you need to keep an open mind to possible solutions,
even ones that may seem a bit out of the ordinary. In fact, sometimes the more
unusual, the better. We are all very prone to mental set, and that can be a huge
impediment to problem-solving. Finally, be ready to start all over if your
results were unsuccessful. Holding onto your first answer, even if it’s not a
very good one (known as the confirmation bias) can impede you from ever coming
up with a way out of your dilemma. Rushing ahead to complete a problem is
probably the biggest mistake that people make, other than procrastinating too
long!
