Effective Problem Solving

Goal

To be able to proactively problem solve to address or prevent events that trigger changes in eating

Effective Problem Solving

Day to day problems can feel overwhelming and you may feel unequipped and unable to deal with those problems. Proactive problem solving, which involves 6 steps, can help to effectively address the day to day problems that arise.

1. Identify the problem as early as possible. Problems are easier to address if they are caught early on.
2. Specify the problem accurately. If you do not complete this step, the true nature of the problem may remain hidden-making it difficult to identify the best solution.
3. Consider as many solutions as possible. Some solutions may seem unrealistic or impractical, but it is important to include them. The more solutions that are generated, the more likely a good one will emerge.
4. Think through the implications of each solution. The likely effectiveness and feasibility of each solution should be considered.
5. Choose the best solution or combination of solutions. This should be straightforward if you did a thorough job of thinking through the implications in step 4.
6. Act on the solution.

Problem Solving Exercise

Instructions: In order to enhance your problem solving skills, identify events that are likely to trigger changes in your eating. Address them by using the above problem solving procedure. Then, review your attempts at problem solving. Focus on your use of the problem solving procedure rather than on whether the problem was successfully solved. Complete this exercise over a period of one week.

Event	Problem	Possible Solutions	Implications of Solutions	Best Solution(s)