Creative Problem Solving Tips

These creative-problem-solving tips were originally published as a regular column in the American Creativity Association's Focus newsletter.   They were written by Richard Fobes, who is the author of The Creative Problem Solver's Toolbox: A Complete Course in the Art of Creating Solutions to Problems of Any Kind

Solutions, Creative!
Creative Problem Solver's Toolbox
Ending The Hidden Unfairness In U.S. Elections
CPS tips
List of tips, starting at 1
List of tips, starting at 10
List of tips, starting at 20
Hope for the Future
Author and inventor
VoteFair.org
FullRanking.com

Tip 1: Precede relaxing activities with a few minutes of thinking of possible solutions, even crazy or impractical ones.

It's well known that after thinking about a problem for awhile it can be helpful to take a break by going for a walk, washing dishes, or even sleeping.   To increase the chances of your subconscious mind providing you with a solution to your problem during this relaxing activity, spend a few minutes just before it thinking of possible, although impractical, solutions.   For example, you might think "Well, although it's not practical, using helicopters would certainly solve the problem." Or, "It's a silly idea, but we could put the cat on a leash." Make sure you keep your attention on what can be done in the future; otherwise you'll find yourself thinking about the past, such as "If only so-and-so hadn't done such-and-such ...."

Such sample solutions convey to your subconscious mind what you want it to think about while, consciously, you'll be relaxing.   If a solution comes to you while you're relaxing, it's likely to be much more practical than your sample solutions.


List of tips
Top of Page
Next tip

© Copyright 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, and 2003 Solutions Through Innovation www.SolutionsCreative.com   All rights reserved.