Despite apparent differences between problems it is often similar aspects of an individual’s approach to problem solving that makes it difficult for them to resolve them, i.e. it is often the ‘problem solver’ who makes problem solving more difficult than it needs to be.
MTa’s Problem Solving activities provide facilitators and trainers with everything they need to focus participants’ attention on what it is about their personal approach that helps and inhibits their ability to define and solve problems. The activities are designed to engage all of the participants in tasks that present a variety of problems. Common personal ‘blocks’ to problem solving that are raised include:

• Failing to fully understand the problem before seeking solutions
• Seeing what you expect to see, not what is actually there
• Not isolating the problem from insignificant surroundings
• Not seeing the whole context
• Fear of thinking the ‘unthinkable’ or taking a risk
• Judging rather than generating ideas
• Too much haste – wanting to find a quick solution
• Tradition.