Break Big Problems Down

As an engineer, I've learned many valuable lessons, but one stands out above the rest: Big problems are just collections of smaller, more manageable problems. At first glance, a big problem can feel like an insurmountable mountain—complex, intimidating, and without clear solutions. But when you break it down into smaller pieces, it becomes far less daunting. This approach might seem obvious, but it's surprising how often people get stuck, overwhelmed by the sheer scale of a challenge. I've seen colleagues and friends freeze because they couldn't reframe their big problem into bite-sized, actionable tasks. I learned this lesson while struggling to program in MATLAB during university. With no prior coding experience, I was tasked with solving complex problems under the guidance of a research advisor. The projects felt overwhelming, and overthinking them only fueled self-doubt. The solution? Break each problem into tiny, almost laughably simple tasks. I'd research specific MATLAB functions, tackle one small piece at a time, and slowly build toward the solution. Progress was gradual, but the real win was feeling like I was moving forward—a critical boost to my motivation. Here's why breaking problems down works so well:

Small Wins Fuel Motivation: Completing small tasks in minutes or hours (not days or weeks) gives a sense of accomplishment. Checking items off your to-do list—mental or physical—keeps you energized to continue. Lower Mental Overhead: Small tasks are easier to pick up and put down. Unlike complex problems that require significant mental “reloading” after distractions, smaller tasks let you dive back in quickly, maintaining momentum. Distractions Lose Their Power: We've all had days derailed by interruptions, where no meaningful progress is made because we keep restarting a complex task. Smaller tasks reduce this risk, as they're easier to resume.

This approach isn't just for programming—it's a universal strategy. Whether you're tackling a work project, learning a new skill, or solving a personal challenge, breaking it into manageable chunks makes it less intimidating and more achievable. The next time you're staring down a big problem, take a deep breath and ask: What's the smallest step I can take right now? Start there, and you'll be amazed at how quickly those small steps add up to big progress.