Easy Guide to Solving Problems and Setting Priorities

Life throws challenges at everyone — from small daily hassles to major decisions. It’s easy to feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to begin. The good news is that with the right approach, you can break problems down into manageable steps and create an action plan that actually works.

Here’s a simple guide to help you identify problems, set priorities, and take action.

 

Step 1: Define the Problem Clearly

 

• Write down exactly what the problem is.
• Avoid vague words like “everything is wrong” — be specific (e.g., “I need to manage my money better” instead of “I’m bad with money”).

✅ Checklist:

• What exactly is the issue?
• Why is it a problem for me right now?
• What would success look like?

 

Step 2: Break It Down

Big problems often feel impossible because they’re too broad. Divide the issue into smaller, more manageable parts.

✅ Checklist:

• What smaller tasks or factors make up this problem?
• Which parts are under my control?
• Which parts are external (not in my control)?

 

Step 3: Prioritize What Matters Most

Not everything can be solved at once. Focus on what has the biggest impact.

✅ Checklist:

• Which part, if solved, would make the biggest positive difference?
• Which tasks are urgent (need attention now)?
• Which tasks are important (long-term benefit)?

👉 Tip: Use the Urgent vs. Important Matrix:

• Urgent + Important → Do first
• Important but not urgent → Schedule
• Urgent but not important → Delegate or limit
• Neither → Drop it

 

Step 4: Create an Action Plan

Turn your priorities into steps you can actually take.

✅ Checklist:

• What is the very first step I can take?
• What resources (time, money, help) do I need?
• What’s my timeline?

👉 Tip: Always start with something small to build momentum.

 

Step 5: Take Action and Review

Start with your first step and commit to progress, not perfection. Check back regularly to see what’s working and what needs adjusting.

✅ Checklist:

• Did I complete my first step?
• What worked well?
• What obstacles came up?
• What’s the next step?

Problem-Solving & Priority Form

You can use this template anytime you face a challenge:

Problem: ________________________________________

Why it matters: __________________________________

Smaller parts of the problem:

1. 
   
   
2. 
   
   
3. 
   
   

 

Top priority (what to focus on first): ____________________

First action step: _______________________________

Resources I need: _______________________________

Deadline / Timeline: _____________________________

Review date: _________________________________

 

✅ Final Note: Don’t aim for perfect solutions immediately. Aim for progress. Each small action builds confidence and moves you closer to solving bigger challenges.