Problem Solving
What is Problem Solving?
Problem Solving is finding ways to make “wise” choices and
create a win-win situations in life.
There are no mistakes in life, only opportunities to get better!
Problem Solving
List a few of the problems that you know people
have to learn how to solve.
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Become a Problem Solver!
In every situation there are three questions that you can ask to make a
“wise” choice and create win-win situations for everyone!
1. What ?: What is the problem that needs to be solved?
2. So What ?: So What are my choices and the related
consequence?
3. Now What ?: Now what should I choose?
Step 1
WHAT: WHAT IS THE PROBLEM?
Example:
Fred isn’t playing “fair” at recess!
Step 2
So What?
(Alternative 1)
Pros (positive outcomes from this
decision)
• Fred may play fairly.
Cons (negative outcomes from this
I could yell at Fred and
decision)
hit him.
•Fred may yell back and start a fight.
•I will be sent to the principal’s office
and suspended from school.
Step 2
So What?
Pros (positive outcomes from
this decision)
• Fred may play fairly because he
Alternative 2
feels sorry for me.
Cons (negative outcomes from
I could ask him to
this decision)
please stop, cry, • Fred may continue to not play fair.
pout, and stomp • Fred will laugh at me and continue to play
the way he wants.
away mad.
Step 2
So What?
Alternative 3
I could go play
another game.
Pros (positive outcomes from this
decision)
• Fred will realize his choices are affecting
other people.
• I will be seen as a leader for making
positive choices.
• I will be peaceful and happy.
Cons (negative outcomes from this
decision)
• Fred may continue to not play fair.
Step 3
Now What?
Choose the BEST alternative!
I will choose to walk away and go play another game!
I make wise choices!
I think win-win!
I Cooperate!
I am responsible!
I am responsible for
the day I create for
myself and the
balance I bring to
my life!