Why You Should Be Solving Two (and Only Two) Hard Problems at the Same Time
There are several difficult problems in our work and personal life that cannot be solved with simple, step-by-step, systematic strategies. To avoid frustration and burnout, you should tackle two of these problems at once, but nothing more.
On his blog, author and assistant professor Cal Newport discusses the difference between “solvable” and “unsolvable” problems . A problem to be solved is a problem that can be solved with a systematic procedure applied to it until a solution is clear. These are issues like finishing your strenuous job or cleaning a messy house. An unsolvable problem is a much more serious problem, and it is not clear how to solve it. Problems like a writer trying to come up with a new idea for a book or a business owner trying to recoup lost profits. The solution to these problems is not obvious and there is no systematic way to solve them.
It might seem like it would be wiser to focus on just one of these tricky problems at a time, but as Newport explains, working on two at the same time is the most optimal:
Two is better than one because it allows you to shift your focus if you are stuck (or tired) with one task. But two are still small enough that your mind can sort the different parts correctly and make them available for random reconfiguration.
As you go about your work, define the problems and challenges you face as solvable or unsolvable. When faced with intractable problems or difficult problems that don’t have a clear solution, pick two that you want to work on. Try to think how it will look a decision and determine what approach can help you. When you get upset, change gears and tackle another problem. If you run into the same problem, you will only burn out, and it may take even longer to find a solution. Both articles on unsolvable problems are worth reading, so check them out at the link below.
Solving the unsolvable | Cal Newport’s Blog