I grew up understanding that if there's a will there's a way. In a nutshell, that meant problem solving. This is a Toastmaster International speech I delivered on May 2, 2013.

1. Are You A Problem
Solver?
Linda M. Mitchell
Toastmasters International Speech
Thursday, May 2, 2013

2. Dictionary.com says problem-
solving is using “deep
thought” to solve a problem.

4. Who has problems?
EVERYONE-unless you’re
dead.
• Government sector--at all levels
• Education sector
• Business/financial sector
• Environmental sector
• Family and personal relationships
• the whole world!!

5. Problem solving is finding solutions to
problems. Sometimes, it’s not that easy.

6. Can you learn to be a problem
solver?

7. Text

8. • PBL is a trend in education
• helps students learn by doing
• students work in teams to solve authentic
problems
• The goal is to teach children to think. That’s
what employers want.
Project-based learning

10. There’s a lot of
expert advice
on how to
solve problems.

13. 20 brilliant inventions to solve life's little problems
It's the simple inventions that are the most brilliant. Here are 20 solutions to day-to-day problems
that will make you go 'why didn't I think of that?'
"Ever wanted to sleep in a lecture? This roll of 'sleep-tape' will make it look as if you're awake.
"It's amazing what people can come up with when faced with a
problem."

14. Many inventions are the outcome of
creative problem solving.

15. Little problems?

16. Characteristics of
Problem Solvers
•Frustrated with the way things are
done
•Think differently with an open
mind

17. How to Problem Solve
• Define the problem
• Brainstorm
solutions
• Rule out stupid
unrealistic options
• Consider
consequences of the
various options
• Try out your
solution
• Evaluate and review

19. King Solomon

20. We’re going to encounter problems along life’s
journey.

21. My problem-solving
victory