Treating problems like puzzles
Life is a succession of ups and downs, with problems coming and going. We go from one end of the spectrum to another, sometimes in less time than enough to catch our breath.
Problems are probably one of the most constant experiences of our journeys as human beings. We define them as unwelcome situations that need to be dealt with. Yet often times, we actually let our problems deal with us.
We find ourselves in situations that aren’t the best. We then end up losing ourselves through the ways in which they affect us. Whether it is the negative thoughts that come along, the feelings of hopelessness and desperation, or just the discomfort we feel, even the most “simple” problems can turn into disasters. A lot of times though, all it takes us to make things better is a little bit of perspective.
So, let’s talk about puzzles.
Jigsaw puzzles are a very interesting game. They are not only a great type of entertainment but are also known to help improve memory and reduce stress levels. Each new found combination creates a warm feeling of satisfaction; as well as a motivation to keep moving forward.
In reality, puzzles are basically a problem that needs a solution.
Similarities between puzzles and problems
The one difference between that type of problem (puzzle) and the ones happening in our daily lives is the way we approach them.
We view the first one as a great opportunity to solve a mystery. While doing a puzzle, we keep asking ourselves how each piece connects with one another, and use the clues we have in order to make things easier. Those clues are the colors, the shapes, the patterns, and all of the other things that help create connections and links.
Similarly, the problems that come to us often come with clues to help us solve them. It can be their nature (physical, mental, spiritual), the time at which they come (season, day, night), the trigger (change of situation, event), the people involved, etc.
Also, when solving a puzzle, we motivate ourselves by focusing on the big picture, which is more or less, the final image. Likewise, each problem we face carries a specific message that is often useful to us. It can be an information about ourselves or the world around us. It can also be a push towards the path that is ours.
Again, it is all about perspective and learning to focus on the big picture.
Talking about focus, one of the other benefits of solving puzzles is practicing mindfulness. We allow ourselves to be in the present moment and to give our attention to the one task that needs it at the moment. In fact, we can apply this to our problems as well. Each situation requires a certain amount of attention without which, we will not only be unable to see the pieces in place but also not have the necessary clarity of mind to put them together.
Difference between puzzles and problems
There is, however, a difference between these two types of puzzles that we shouldn’t ignore.
With the first type, there is generally no emotion involved. But the other type is quite the opposite. The reason our regular problems tend to be so hard to fix probably lies in their ability to mix our feelings and create unpleasant emotions. In such a case, the one thing that can help us is taking a step back.
This is, with no doubt, easier said than done. Yet, without it, we would (sometimes) just end up suffering an unnecessary pain.
There are, on the other hand, problems that are just out of our personal controls. It is the ones that no degree of objectivity can truly solve. They are the situations that often take time to understand and accept. When facing them, we shouldn’t use our energy to overthink about our previous steps and actions. Instead, we should focus on figuring out what we can learn from them.
As Gaur Gopal Das said, “If you have a problem in life and you can’t solve it, then why worry?
Hi, I’m Femi Nassi and I’ve decided to start treating problems like puzzles. This article was inspired by the interview done by Srinivas Rao to Jim Kwik on the Unmistakable Creatives podcast. You should definitely check it out and share your thoughts with me.
