Solution-focused thinking is a mindset about looking forward, with an open mind, towards the possibilities offered by the future. It is a valuable mindset, particularly for problem-solving.
As it is often the quest for a solution to a problem or a decision that triggers overthinking, solution-focused thinking encourages you to ‘do something different’ by considering possibilities you may not have thought about before.
Since solutions can only exist in the future, thinking in a solution-focused way also means that you’ll be looking forward to possibilities, rather than getting stuck in overthinking.
What If…?Our regular thinking style is governed by our upbringing and our conditioning, but more importantly by our instinct for survival. The default mode is to look for risk, threats, problems and weaknesses.
Being solution-focused involves overcoming this sensible and natural way of going about things, and asking “What if…?”
When you understand solution-focused thinking and how it can benefit conversations and relationships, discussions that were once chores can become delightful journeys of exploration.
If you think that’s a bit strong – a sales pitch even – well, I suppose you could be right.
Insofar as I think that working in a solution-focused way is liberating, energising and exciting, I probably sound like an evangelist. This is precisely why I don’t talk about it too often (unless I’m running a training event).
Solution Focused practitioners often talk about ‘BEING solution-focused’. This goes to the heart of the matter. When you embrace it, solution-focused thinking is about being, or how you are in your approach to things. It is something you do for yourself, not something you do TO others.
About Solution-Focused ThinkingThe term Solution-Focused is widely used, but it is often used without really understanding what it means or why it is so valuable.
Maybe your job is formally recognised as part of the helping professions because it involves supporting people (HR, social work, counselling, psychiatry for example).
Or perhaps you work or volunteer in a wider group which includes roles like advocacy, charity and aid work, the law, mediation, medicine, occupational health, probation, physiotherapy, social work, teaching, and many others.
Your primary role is not seen as caring or support, but your daily routine inevitably involves helping people in crisis or distress. You are one of many ‘informal helpers’ who use the same skills as the first group – essentially these are the skills of counselling – yet you have had little or no training to develop their helping skills.
Solution focused thinking was chrystallised by Stever DeShazer and colleagues back in the '80s under the heading od Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). As the name suggests, it was originally developed to guide therapeuic interventions. An approach to conversations that empowers both helpers and those they help, it brings with it a wealth of easily learned and adaptable techniques which will enhance the skills of any capable person, whatever the setting.
A testament to this is that SFBT is now used in just about any setting imaginable from government department (but not in the UK!), education, social services,HR, prisons..., anywhere that people are dealing with people.
Online Course – Member Offer
If your job requires you to be a 'people person' you can enhance your role by learning more about SFBT. My online course, specifically designed for the helping professions, will teach you the skills of Solution Focused Brief Therapy.
Check it out – to claim your 50% discount for Professionals UK members, use the coupon code PUK23 at checkout.
Book
Winbolt, B. (2011) Solution Focused Therapy for the Helping Professions, Jessica Kingsley Publishers
I am a Psychologist, consultant, coach, and therapist. I have worked in my chosen fields for 30+ years, in person and online.
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