5 Steps to Power Through your Problems

Whether you call them challenges, opportunities or big hairy problems, the only people without them are in the graveyard. Someone once said don’t wish for smaller problems, wish you were better. The fact that you have problems at all are signs of growth, progress and movement. Once we set a goal it is often only then that a problem shows up. Without the aspiration or goal the issue wouldn’t appear on our radar. Outlined below is a simple 5 step formula for Powering through any Problem. It is rooted in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and has been used by Tony Robbins and many others. A more extensive PDF version is available without charge from URSuccess.net Step 1– Responsibility It is crucial that you are able to take ownership of the issue and give up the blame for who you think may have caused the problem. Blaming others is a state of victimhood and gives away your power to create change. However difficult it may seem at first, just quietly affirm that I got into this situation and it’s up to me to get out of it. Step 2 - Clarity Define what the problem REALLY is:- That may seem a little obvious but just take a little time and think about what exactly is the problem you are facing. Sometimes we are too close to the issue to be able to clearly define what is wrong and therefore find a solution. Einstein was attributed to have said that we cannot solve a problem using the same thinking that created it. So take a minute, step back and clearly write down what the problem is. Begin by writing down the heading “What is good about this situation?” This gets your brain scanning for the positives. If that is too big a stretch, use the phrase “Where is the potential good in this situation?” This sets the expectation that it will be good at some point. Take a few minutes and write down everything that comes to mind. Don’t filter or edit at this stage, just allow your mind to come up with suggestions. Now write the heading “What’s not perfect yet?” Again this sets an expectation that there is the potential to be perfect and sets the problem solving elements of your mind searching for an answer. Step 3 – Willingness Now answer this question: - “What am I willing to do to make it the way I want?” Take a few minutes and concentrate on addressing this question. Your brain responds to well directed questions, so allow it to come up with 5 – 10 things that you are willing to do to make the situation the way you want it to be. Step 4 – Unwillingness Often problems can be eliminated once we are clear about what we are no longer willing to do or tolerate. Take a few minutes and address the question: - “What am I no longer willing to do/accept, in order to make things the way I want?” Remember, once you accept responsibility for the issue, you have the power to change it. Step 5 – Action This fifth and final step encourages you to take action. Our brains spend most of the time yo-yoing between seeking pleasure and avoiding pain. The solution to a problem may represent a degree of pain and therefore has been avoided until the point where it must be addressed. In order to complete the process of Powering through your Problem we must associate some pleasure to its elimination. Ask the question: - “How can I do what is now necessary and enjoy the process?” By asking your brain to come up with actions that may be enjoyable, as well as solving the problem, you will have a more powerful incentive and momentum to follow through. Now stop whatever you are doing and take action! Pick up the phone, write an email, have the conversation, search online, put on your running shoes, whatever it takes to get you started and Power through your Problem!