Outline for Problem Solving

by Robert Glasscock

Procrastination got you stymied? Facing a serious dilemma? Stuck for a solution to ANYTHING? Tying to plot a short story, article or novel?

Get a legal-size pad and pen or pencil.

Think about your situation. It’s been swirling around your unconscious for HOW LONG? Trust yourself. The answer is ready.

In the center of your legal page, write down the first word, phrase, name or image that comes to mind . . . no matter how silly or unrelated it seems.

DON’T CENSOR ANYTHING! Nobody will see this but you.

Draw a circle around that first thought.

In another area of the page, write down the next word, phrase, name or image that pops into your head. Draw a circle around it and connect it to your first circle with a straight line.

Write down your NEXT word, phrase, name or image. WHATEVER it is. Don’t worry about whether it “makes sense.” (Making sense is what’s been holding you back from solving your situation to begin with.) Circle it and connect it to the previous circle with a line.

Keep going . . . writing, circling, connecting.

You will know when you’ve come to the end of this easy-to-tap process.

NOW you can start making sense out of what is staring you in the face.

NOW you will know what actions to take next.

That’s all there is to it!

Congratulations! You’re on your way!