Congrats! You’ve just laid the foundation for becoming a stronger problem solver. In this section, you learned that not all business challenges are created equal. Real problems block growth, run deeper than surface symptoms, and are worth tackling with the right approach. You also explored the difference between gut-based decisions and critical thinking, and why combining intuition with evidence gives the best results.

We introduced the six-step problem-solving cycle—define, analyze, generate solutions, decide, implement, and review—which will guide you through any messy challenge with structure and clarity. Most importantly, you’ve started building a mindset that focuses on asking the right questions, breaking down complexity, staying objective, and testing solutions before going all in.

Take a moment to reflect:

• What’s one insight about distinguishing symptoms from real problems that stood out to you?

• How might you start applying structured thinking to a challenge you’re currently facing at work?

• Which part of the six-step cycle do you feel most ready to try, and which might take some practice?

Keep these lessons in mind—they’re the foundation for everything that comes next. In the next section, we’ll jump into practical frameworks that turn this mindset into tools you can use immediately to tackle real business problems.

Resources: What is Problem Solving? Steps, Process & Techniques | ASQ, and

The foundation of effective problem solving