The problem-solving and Creative Thinking

Abstract

The creative thinking process is responsible for unorthodox solutions to normal solutions. This thinking process mainly goes beyond what is known in order to explore what is unknown. There are various methods that have been identified as being part of creative thinking. These include; evolution, synthesis, revolution, changing direction and re-application. Evolution refers to the process by which products or ideas are gradually improved from one stage to another.

Synthesis is a creative process where two or more than two ideas are combined to create a new idea. Revolution in creative thinking describes the process where an individual comes up with a new solution to a problem. Re-application refers to creativity where an individual finds a new way to apply principles or objects. Changing direction refers to creative thinking where individuals change their perspective while addressing an issue.

Describe each stage in the creative process

The insight stage is the first stage in the creative thinking process. This stage is featured by the feeling of being overwhelmed by a problem. It involves comprehending that one is in a complex situation. The brain identifies a challenge that needs to be addressed by finding a solution to the situation (Ruggiero, 2009).

The second stage in this process entails stating the problem. Stating a problem is vital as the arrangement of thoughts with regard to the problem creates a perception of the problem. How a problem is perceived, is influential on the solution that will be used to solve it. It is therefore, vital to ensure that a problem is stated in a manner that will stimulate the most effective solution (Ruggiero, 2009).

The third stage is loosely referred to as saturation. It involves weighing out an issue. It involves a logical assessment of the situation that is posing a problem. This involves gathering, sorting and categorizing information. This information can be attained through various methods. The most commonly applied methods are extensive reading and observations. The aim of this process is to bombard the subconscious part of the brain with countless facts. These facts are then used by the subconscious to come up with a creative solution. It employs getting familiar with what has been established concerning a certain issue in order to stimulate original thought on the same issue (Ruggiero, 2009).

The fourth stage in creative thinking involves generating ideas. This occurs when one gets ideas on how to solve an issue. This stage involves formulating these solutions in a car manner. From there, one is able to decide which solution is the most viable with regard to the issue or problem at hand. Evaluation and implementation are focused on during this process. Such focus is administered by the logical way of thinking. An individual is able to analyze if the solution he or she has generated is worth pursuing. This may involve consultation with other sources of information like experts and peers. This also captures the motions involved in implementation and sustainability (Ruggiero, 2009).

Search for a personal challenge

As a student studying for my Bachelor’s Degree, I have a problem with the outlook of my apartment. This is a transitioning stage where the apartment’s image has to shift from reflecting a teenager to reflecting a mature individual. I first realized I did not like the apartment’s outlook when I read articles on design and architecture. My new interest in such articles opened up my expectations of how an apartment should reflect the personality of its inhabitants.

This was especially so in the way items were arranged as well as, the color on the walls and fabrics. My other challenge is the lack of financial resources to upgrade the look of my apartment. To have the feel and look I want for my apartment, I will have to purchase artwork, fabric, furniture and paint to reconstruct the space. However, my determination to have an apartment with a mature feel is strong, and I will find a way to work around these challenges and achieve my goal.

Techniques that have been used to develop curiosity

I used observation to find an aspect of my life that I could work on to improve my living quality. Observation entailed observing how people around me behaved and affected me. It also involved observing me as an individual and noting down subtle hints that I used while evaluating issues in my life. Observation helped me note down things and people who had a positive impact on my being. I was also able to note issues and individuals who had a negative impact on my being (Ruggiero, 2009).

This observation also prompted me to analyze issues that were imperfect. This led to a second stage where I was able to group things that I could manipulate for improved results and those that I could not change. I discovered that I had limited myself previously by classifying issues as beyond my control while they were actually within my control. I realized that I could manage most issues by ensuring that I maintained proper control on causal effects that would often result in results that I did not like (Ruggiero, 2009).

An initial and revised statement of the problem

My problem is that I do not like the image represented by my apartment. It gives off the vibes of a teenager. This may be because the wallpaper was installed by the previous owner of the apartment. It has too many bright colors that irritate the eyes and brain.

I would like to redefine my apartment by using well-informed arrangements. This should improve the aesthetic value of my apartment. If such aesthetic value is achieved, I believe the apartment will attain a sense of maturity that will be reflected by the colors and items that will be in the apartment.

The final revision of my problem statement is an exact reflection of my current perception of the issue at hand. It also has well-defined results which any solution that I come up with should fulfill. This is vital as one is expected to weigh creative ideas against each other in order to determine which solution is the most effective.

Re-decorating a room requires financial resources, labor and an artistic theme. I gathered this information from reading articles on interior design.

List of questions, sources of their answers and their answers

• How does one use available financial resources in a way that maximum output can be achieved from limited finances?
• What alternate ways of attaining materials like art pieces and furniture are available?
• How does an individual decide on what theme best fits an apartment?

All these questions can be answered by reading articles concerning those topics. Such articles are available in books and over the internet. There are also informative television shows that explain and demonstrate the interior design process.

The problem involves having an apartment that lacks a mature appeal. This is with regard to the color scheme employed, furniture and art pieces on display. The image portrayed by the apartment is immature. This makes me uneasy in a space that should offer me comfort after having a hard day.

Using limited resources can also achieve maximum output by ensuring that one has a list of items listed in order of their priority. One is able to decide on what items are basic and have to be purchased. Having such a list ensures that one spends money on items that will help them reach their goals in the most effective way that is possible.

There are alternative ways of attaining furniture and artwork apart from expensive stores and gallery shows. This mostly includes second-hand shops. One can obtain such items by being informed about individuals who are making significant geographical relocations. Such individuals usually sell off their household items in order to ease the transportation process. Individuals can also buy items and re-use them in their spaces for new purposes. A piece of furniture can be re-painted and act as an apiece for a space. One determines the theme of a room based on the items, color scheme and arrangement that is used in space (Crane & Buchholz, 2002).

List of ideas

Leave the room as it is

Re-decorate only part of my apartment

Choose a theme and reuse the materials I have to express that theme

Move to another apartment

Two original and practical ideas

The most practical thing would be to redecorate only half of the apartment for now. The rest of the apartment can be redecorated when I have enough money to support the operation. The other practical idea would be to re-use the materials I have to express a pre-defined theme for the apartment.

Reference

Crane, M., & Buchholz, B. (2002). Apartment living: New designs for urban living. Gloucester, Mass: Rockport.

Ruggiero, Vincent R. (2009). The Art of Thinking: A Guide to Critical and Creative Thought. Longman Pub Group.