Step one

Avoid looking at your situation as a problem and view it as a challenge. This more positive connotation affects your perception positively and has a motivational impact.

Step two

Do not allow yourself to become overwhelmed by looking at the challenge holistically. At the starting line solutions can appear unattainable and immobilising panic may set in.

Step three

Divide the challenge into more manageable bite size goals. This alleviates the paralysis experienced when we feel overwhelmed.

Step four

If necessary sub-divide these main goals into sub-goals if unforeseen obstacles present themselves. Moving towards a solution, no matter how small the steps, is progress and allows us to regain a sense of control. Afterall, the alternative is to “sit still” and achieve nothing.

Step five

Set yourself realistic time scales to achieve each goal. This accountability helps maintain momentum in the pursuit of finding solutions.

Step six

Regularly review and evaluate your progress in achieving your goals. Acknowledge and celebrate any successes, in order to boost your morale and sustain the stamina to press on towards reaching solutions.

Step seven

The result is achieved as solutions gradually emerge. We often are surprised to find that our challenge in the end was not as unattainable as we had initially thought.