# Clear Thinking ### Define the Problem The way that we define a problem shapes everyone's perspectives about it and determines the solutions. > **The Definition Principle**: Take responsibility for defining the problem. Don't let someone define it for you. Do the work to understand it. Don't use jargon to explain it. > **The Root Cause Principle**: Identify the root cause of the problem. Don't be consent with simply treating the symptoms. * What do you want to achieve? What obstacles stand in your way? (can you use first principles thinking here) * To identify the root problem, ask: "What would have to be true for this problem to not exist in the first place?" * Ask everyone in the room: "What do you know about this problem that other people don't know?" ### Explore Possible Solutions > **The Bad Outcome Principle**: Don't just imagine the ideal future outcome. Imagine the things that could go wrong and how you'll overcome them if they do. --- Date: 20211221 Links to: [Big Ideas MOC](Big%20Ideas%20MOC.md) Tags: References: *