If you’re looking for a surefire way to solve a problem, try the Six Thinking Hats technique , a problem-solving method
developed by Edward de Bono that explores different perspectives to tackle complex issues.
Each Thinking Hat represents a different thinking style:
White hat: The facts
The white hat represents what you know and relies on facts. It is neutral and objective. Study the information you have and see what needs to be learned.
Red hat: Feelings
The red hat represents a gut feeling or intuition. Ask yourself, how do I feel about this idea? How will people react to my decision?
Black hat: Warning
The black hat asks you to consider the challenges or risks. It focuses on the negative elements, and highlights the weak points in your plan. Consider what problems could arise. What are the downsides?
Yellow hat: Positive
This hat focuses on the benefits; why is this a good idea? What are the benefits? Focus on the benefits and the value in them. The yellow hat is a good hat to consider when things seem difficult.
Green hat: Creativity
The green hat is about ideas and possibilities. What ideas do you have? What possibilities could emerge?
Blue hat: Process
The blue hat represents big-picture thinking. You can decide which hat is most appropriate for this stage of decision-making. Here you can assess where you are, and start developing a plan for taking action. For example, if ideas are running dry, you might want to switch to the green thinking hat.
