The Problem Behind the Problem

The Problem Behind The Problem

Hello Problem-Solvers! We notice the problems in front of us: an empty fridge, a traffic jam, a looming deadline. I call these external problems. They’re visible, tangible, often fixable. But beneath them usually lies something that goes way deeper: the internal problem.

Offering a Monster Munch crisp sandwich to your loved one, whilst sat on a park bench in the drizzly rain might fill your stomachs, but if what they really want is a romantic meal with a sunset view? I’m afraid that sandwich won’t cut it. Think about traffic delays, they might be tolerable, but if the real cost is missing bedtime with your kids (again), frustration runs deeper.

Too often, we tackle only the external problem and wonder why satisfaction eludes us. Applied improvisation offers a way to dig deeper. Simply ask “Why?” and keep asking. You’ll soon find the internal problem emerges, revealing what truly matters. Only then can we respond creatively, with empathy and action that we know will make a real difference.

Because, let’s be honest, solving the wrong problem never feels like a solution.

The Problem Behind the Problem

Knowing yourself is as important as knowing your audience.

TRY IT OUT!

The “So What” Chain

Grab a partner (or two) and take turns. One person shares a small, everyday external problem (e.g., “I spilled coffee on my shirt,” “My train was delayed,” “I can’t find my headphones”, “my shoes leak”, the “zoom meeting link doesn’t work”).

The other person’s job is simply to ask “So what?” After each answer, they ask “So what?” again. Make it playful! Do this at least three times and see where the conversation goes.

Notice how quickly the conversation moves from an external inconvenience to an internal fear, value, or need. When you’ve exercised the So What Chain muscles, why not try this out on work related problems.

“From a certain point of view our real enemy, the true troublemaker, is inside” Dalai Lama

Something posted (and dreaded)…

The dreaded brown envelope flops onto the doormat. Just lying there. Taunting you. You don’t want to open it. Always bad news: taxman, parking fine, late payment. But you have to… eventually. And when you finally rip it open, it’s just a flippin’ double-glazing flyer. Straight into the bin goes that external problem. But what about the internal ones it triggered? The anxiety, the hidden worry, the dread? They’re still lurking… waiting for the next brown envelope. Why do we harbour these niggles when we could open them up a bit instead?

Something not realised until now…

I [Paul] have never rushed to see John Bishop on TV. Don’t know why. I guess he just never appealed. Then last week I saw him on stage at G-Live, testing material for his upcoming arena tour. He walked us through his life story… the setbacks, the lucky breaks, the risks that paid off. It was funny - like proper funny, it was emotional, and it was brilliantly human. He wasn’t just solving the external problem of “make us laugh”. He gave us connection, vulnerability, and truth. He’s now my new favourite comedian. If you’ve got tickets to see him, then lucky lucky you!

Something that'll do (but didn't)…

How many times have I said “that’ll do” or “that’s good enough”? Loads. At Uni, I even told my advisor I was happy with “good enough” grades. It solved my external problem - get a degree and move on. And yet, looking back, I see how shallow that was. The internal problem, the fear of really testing myself… it was hiding in plain sight. No regrets… but also, if only.

All the best,

Paul n Vic

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