Reflections as Problem Solving

It is difficult, in finding our way out of a sticky problem, to remember that every attempt we make in problem solution really does change the balance of forces that conditioned the situation. We generally find ourselves so involved that we miss the signs of change our actions often reveal.

Over-involvement signals the need for reflection --- which is like that moment at the beach when a wave retreats, allowing a new glimpse of shells and stone, before the next wave arrives. Reflection is an easy two-step practice. First, we take a momentary pause from other types of productive action. One of my favorites is to take a quiet walk. Next, we allow our thoughts to range freely in our minds without the exercise of direction. During my walk, I allow the sensation of non-directed thought to simply be.

Later, I take those thoughts, and arrange them into themes; and from the themes, gain some narrative insight into what I’ve been working at, in addition to the overt behavior I’ve been attempting. In so doing, I allow my thoughts to tell me another story about what I’ve been doing. Often, its an eye-opener.

Over a century ago, the psychologist William James referred to these thoughts as a “halo” around more purposive thoughts; and indeed, there is something of the angelic in them.

Here’s an example of reflection in action: A client, having worked long and hard at a particularly ambitious business plan, had received very positive feedback; but at the last moment, was disappointed by his financial backers as credit conditions tightened. In his disappointment, my client reflected moments of shaken trust, doubting his competence, initiative and resolve. Powering over these doubts, he quickly generated a back-up plan. It was also well-received ; but again met with funding difficulties.

Trying a third time, and stretched to his limit, we recognized together that his actions were only wrapping him up tighter and tighter. He was willing to try a thought exercise in reflection.

What emerged for him? The narrative he constructed related not so much to the elements of his business plan, but to powerful worries. While these were not particularly pleasant to acknowledge, my client recognized how their strong, constant presence was motivating his activity to a far greater extent than he’d recognized earlier. The recognition was a relief for him. He could address the worries directly--- and more strategically return to thinking about productive business development.

Reflection is a pragmatic, stress-reducing tool in problem solving. Like other, more overt problem solving behaviors, it changes the conditions under which we approach challenges through its quiet but informative commentary on what we do.