Embracing the Challenge of Unsolvable Problems
Written on
Chapter 1: The Nature of Problems
In our daily lives, we often face challenges that seem insurmountable. These types of dilemmas are, in fact, quite common.
Most Frustrating Challenges
There are few things that frustrate me more than unclear or misleading guidance. While I can grasp complex concepts and adapt them to different scenarios, navigating without a proper map can leave us lost. Over time, I've come to understand that while precise instructions are desirable, expecting them in the real world can put us at a significant disadvantage.
Facing Unfamiliar Problems
We often find ourselves paralyzed when confronted with issues we've never faced before. As much as I appreciate technology, nothing is more frustrating than a device that fails to perform its intended function. The worst part is when I don't grasp what it is supposed to do or how to troubleshoot it. I've learned that the problem lies not in the situation itself but in my expectations of the challenges I should prepare for.
Reality Check
Most challenges in life are unexpected and often unrecognized. Even in the age of information, it's difficult to find clear solutions tailored to our unique situations. Even if we had all the answers, it would be impossible to learn them all. Criticizing ourselves for our lack of knowledge misses the point; instead, we should reflect on why we couldn't formulate a reasonable hypothesis about the problem at hand.
Improvisation: A Skill Worth Developing
Moreover, the ability to improvise is not something easily taught. Traditional education often conflicts with real-world scenarios. Memorizing specific solutions becomes pointless when the problems evolve. Have we ever truly learned how to evaluate issues for which there are no clear answers? More importantly, have we figured out how to handle problems that defy solutions? This is a lesson we must teach ourselves—and we should start now.
Seeking Out Challenges
My approach is to actively engage with as many problems as possible. Instead of shying away from them, we should seek them out. When we can find solutions, we should take the time to understand what worked and why. I’ve invested hours trying to comprehend the reasons behind successful outcomes, knowing that a stroke of luck is not a replicable strategy.
Forget About Taking Notes
The beauty of this process is that we don't need to focus on taking notes. Solving problems creates new patterns in our brains, forming connections that become increasingly efficient. The wise individual is not merely the one who gathers more information but the one who connects disparate ideas. Gradually, our minds will begin to link aspects of challenges with potential solutions.
Let’s Dive Into a Challenge!
It's time to tackle a puzzle—our minds are likely eager for the exercise.
Today's dose of cautious optimism: 65%.
Written while enjoying: ‘Abstract Elegies’ by Rahikka.
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Chapter 2: Learning from Life’s Challenges
In the first video, "We prefer a Problem we can't Fix to a Solution we don't like," we delve into the psychology behind our choices in facing challenges. Understanding this mindset can help us navigate our fears and improve our problem-solving skills.
The second video titled "Einstein said 'We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them'" reinforces the idea that we must evolve our thinking to address the challenges we face effectively.