Problem solving and work-life balance

Problem solving isn't an innate or "brilliant" gift, but a complex and processual skill that develops as a habit through training, experience, and context. Work-life balance can foster it, but it's not enough on its own; on the contrary, problem solving also contributes to a better work-life balance.

by Vincenzo Di Prisco

The generally held view of the meaning of problem solving , or the ability to effectively solve a problem by arriving at an appropriate solution, often creates a cognitive bias of shared understanding that reveals a profound superficiality. People assume they know what "knowing how to solve problems" means, without questioning the underlying processes.

Have you seen the movie Limitless ? The story is simply banal: a man solves problems thanks to a pill that enhances his brain. Well, most people think—and I wouldn't want to be wrong—that problem solving is indeed a transversal skill , but one that takes the form of instant magical genius . The truth is different: Problem solving, like teamwork, time management, leadership, effective communication, and all the transversal skills—allow me to add one to which I am very attached, excellence—are " habits ." In this sense, the reference to the concept of habit is consistent with the studies of William James , up to the most recent research in cognitive psychology and neuroscience applied to learning.

A habit is a point of arrival (outcome) . It is not innate but is acquired ( training and experience ) and is revealed thanks to certain conditions ( context ).

In my many years managing soft skills training, I've always been surprised by how some people, initially perceived—or self-perceived—as having little inclination toward problem solving, for example, can later demonstrate significantly higher levels of competence.

If we analyze problem solving in operational terms, its processual nature clearly emerges. It is structured into a sequence of interdependent phases: defining the problem, breaking it down into simple parts, finding alternative routes, planning resources, time, and priorities, managing stress and emotions, collaborating with others, and, to achieve this, communicating effectively. All of this must be taught (training) , cultivated and experienced (experience) , and finally recognized, encouraged, and shared (context).

And we come to the crux of the matter, which we can summarize in the question: Is Work-Life Balance an enabling condition for effective problem solving?

A good work-life balance can certainly foster more stable cognitive and emotional states—and thus support clearer decision-making processes. However, it is not in itself a sufficient condition . For example, I have encountered relaxed work environments thanks to a company management focused on well-being. Often, precisely in these sluggish contexts, problem-solving skills are paralyzed by a widespread and reassuring laziness.

Instead, I'll start with a different question that flips the perspective: What if problem solving helped you better manage your work-life balance (e.g., organization, priorities, conflict management)?

Related insights: