1. Accurately define your problem.

You can't solve any problem until you first know what the problem is. In this step, clearly and accurately define your problem. Make sure you're absolutely clear (i.e., using simple language), accurate (i.e., you're addressing the "real" problem), brief (i.e., to the point), and specific (i.e., using concrete terms).

A good indicator of whether or not you've clearly defined your problem is to describe your problem to someone else. If that person looks at you like you're speaking Chinese (backwards), then you haven't clearly defined the problem. To test the accuracy of your problem (that you're addressing the real issue), start with the desired outcome and work back to the cause of the problem. Clearly defining the problem is a critical step. A problem well defined is a problem halfway resolved.

2. Decide to confront the issue and deal with it.

This is a simple step. Are you ready to confront the issue? If you decide NOT to confront your problem or even ignore it, be prepared to live with the consequences. But if you do decide to address the issue, get ready to move on to the next step.

3. Clearly define the desired outcome.

This step goes hand in hand with the first step. What is it that you ultimately want to see happen (write it down)? Again, be clear, be brief, and be specific. If you don't know where you're going, how will you know when you finally get there? As author Stephen Covey writes, "Start with the end in mind."

4. In one word, describe how you will feel when the issue is resolved.

Because we usually get what we focus on, take a moment to focus on the feelings you will experience once this problem is resolved and behind you. In other words, see yourself in the solution, not the problem. Subconsciously, you will eventually work towards that feeling. Likewise, if you focus on what you don't want to happen, your subconscious mind will pull you in the direction of those thoughts and feelings. So focus on what you WANT, not what you DON'T want.

5. Determine the information you will need to help you resolve the problem.

The difference between an educated person and an uneducated person is that both may not know the answer, but the educated person knows what he doesn't know and where to look for the answer. What is it that you need to know in order to make intelligent choices concerning your problem? Never make decisions on insufficient or inadequate information – gather the facts, data, and personnel you need to take logical action.

6. Ask yourself: "What can I do myself?"

Most people unconsciously jump to the conclusion that they're helpless when it comes to a tough situation. I want you to do the opposite, pretend you're Superman for just a moment, and that you can do almost anything. Now, determine what needs to be done and do it. And if you eventually discover that you can't do anything about the current problem, you still have a secret weapon up your sleeve, and it's called prayer. Sometimes the best fighting position is on your knees. Just make sure your prayers have feet; because you're stronger than you think.

7. Ask yourself, "Who else can help me?"

Yes, life is hard, but no one said life had to be endured alone. Start determining who your best resources for help are, and start recruiting their help. Usually, the biggest obstacle to overcome in solving any problem is our own pride. If you need help, don't wait. Get it! Just make sure you've tried to help yourself before enlisting the help of others.

8. Determine the specific action steps you're going to take.

Having equipped yourself with the right information and recruited the right people to help you, now determine at least three specific actions you can take towards resolving the problem. These action steps don't have to be monumental, just clear, specific, easy to do, and if at all possible, measurable.

9. Determine when you're going to start moving towards resolution.

There is usually never a better time than the present, so this step should be easy. However, I want you to go one step further, determine when you're going to bring this unfinished business to closure. In other words, set a deadline on the resolution. This doesn't mean the issue will be resolved, but it gives you something to work toward. Remember, you get what you focus on. Focus on completion.

10. Review your results and celebrate!

Enough said. If you're not getting the results you want, as they say, simply "go back to the drawing board," and start the steps all over again. When the problem is finally resolved, celebrate your success, and don't forget to thank those who helped you through the process.

Trust me, this won't be the last problem you ever face, so handle it with grace. And remember, every problem you solve will make you a stronger problem solver and an asset to any company, team, or relationship. So get ready to "grow" through your problems.

Joe Martin is a national speaker, author, professor, and educational consultant.