Problem Reframing
Change how you define the problem to unlock new solutions.
Explanation
How you frame a problem determines what solutions you can see. By deliberately reframing the same situation in different ways, you can discover solution approaches that weren't visible with the original problem statement. Often the breakthrough comes not from solving the problem better, but from solving a different problem entirely.
Real-World Example
Original: 'How do we make elevators faster?' Reframe: 'How do we make waiting for elevators less annoying?' Solution: Install mirrors so people check their appearance. Original: 'How do we reduce crime?' Reframe: 'How do we increase community connection?' New solutions emerge around building relationships.
How to Apply
Write down your current problem statement. Now reframe it 5 different ways: Change the scope (bigger/smaller), change the beneficiary (who else is affected?), change the timeframe (short-term/long-term), change the desired outcome, flip it (what if we wanted the opposite?). Each reframe reveals different solution paths.