There is More Than One Way to Solve a Problem

Keep trying until you find what works

Photo by Clever Visuals on Unsplash

In high school mathematics, the objective is always to find the correct answer(s). Almost every problem I give students has one, two, or a finite number of answers.

Students get conditioned to finding the right solution(s). Here is where it gets tricky for some after they leave formal education.

In life, sometimes, there is more than one way to solve a problem. We learn that there is a sure way to solve a problem because the school curriculum says this is the way.

What if the answer to the problem has more than one way to reach it?

There is no one way to earn money online. There are many variables to contend with in solving different problems.

I had to reteach myself to not always look for the correct process and answer.

There is more than one way to solve a problem.

Don’t be afraid to fail.

My formal education in mathematics has forced me to find the correct answer(s) to every problem. However, there is more than one solution and process to solve problems.

I’m in the finding out process and figuring out what works and doesn’t. Don’t be quick to dismiss an idea even if it doesn’t fit into your plans.

I’ve tutored mathematics just as long as I’ve taught. Even though I don’t see tutoring as a side gig forever, it is still my source of income for my side gigs. It helps me pay bills.

✍️ Example of a real life problem:

Problem: find a way to make money as a writer.

1. Newsletters

2. Courses

3. Freelance Writing

4. Write books

5. Blogging

6. Ghostwriting

💰Example of a real life problem:

Problem: find a way to make money online.

1-6 from the first example

7. Online tutoring

8. Teachers Pay Teachers

9. Gumroad

10. Consulting

Takeaway

I had to rethink the way I look at problems. Not all problems are mathematical problems with the correct process and answer(s).

There is more than one way to make money online. The only way to find out is to go through the process. The process may take longer for some than others, but what works for some may not work for others.

I want to make money online. It took me several years to make money as a writer online. It will take me longer to figure out how to make life-changing money.

Problem-solving is about the process. Find what works for you.