5 Creative Ways to Solve Your Family's Problems

Every family experiences their share of unexpected problems and tough times. It’s how we handle these challenges that can keep our families afloat and moving in a positive direction. But getting caught up in the daily grind may cloud our thoughts so we can’t figure out the best solutions.

Want to change your mindset and welcome new ideas that will make you a better problem-solver? Here are four creative ways.

1. Just do nothing. Seriously.

When you're grappling with a situation that's negatively affecting your family, it can be tough to get out of your own way. We're used to navigating life from our comfort zones, which leaves us stuck. When you look at a problem in only one light, it's hard to find innovative ways to solve it.

Psychologists have a name for this boxed-in way of thinking—functional fixedness.

One outside-the-box way to open yourself to fresh insights and solutions is to step away from your typical problem-solving process. Instead, try an entirely new approach. One of the best ways to accomplish this is—get this!—to do absolutely nothing at all.

Research shows that taking a break from your problem and allowing your mind to wander can allow for creative ideas and even an 'aha' moment.

Not acting may seem counter-productive. But research shows that taking a break from your problem and allowing your mind to wander can allow for creative ideas and even an "aha" moment. 

The next time you're stressed about how to juggle an unexpected childcare dilemma or manage a car repair that's going to cost twice as much as you budgeted, give your mind a time-out. Instead of pacing the kitchen floor in a mild panic, take the dog for a long walk or sit down and do some mindless coloring with your child. By filing away the problem, albeit temporarily, you'll give your mind a chance to rest. Eventually, a solution may appear.

2. Try mindfulness

Another way to loosen up and channel your creativity is to become more mindful. Start looking at mundane, ordinary things in a different light.

Here's a good example—electricity! There are dozens of ways we encounter the gift of electricity daily. How often do you stop and marvel at the ways it improves your life? You flip a switch, and a light pops on and allows you to dive into a great book. Electric burners heat a pot of water so you can prep your family's favorite pasta dish. Being more aware of all the ways you interact with the world can foster your ability to find creative solutions to life's setbacks.

3. Tap into your dreams

A...

Keep reading on Quick and Dirty Tips