Whatever your problem, you need a clear and uncluttered mind in order to address it. We saw in Rule 42 how you have to be in the right mental state in order to think creatively. Well problem solving is a branch of creative thinking, so the same thing applies here. What makes it more difficult is that, if you have a problem, it’s more likely that your mind is buzzing with negative emotions, which will only get in the way.

Quite apart from what’s going on in the rest of your life, the very problem you’re trying to solve may be making you upset, angry, worried, stressed, unhappy. Unfortunately – indeed unfairly – those very feelings will make it harder to come up with a solution. You want to set the creative side of your brain to work without distractions, and negative emotions are a big distraction.

I know that if you’re feeling worried, the worst thing anyone can say to you is ‘don’t worry’. Likewise ‘don’t be angry’ or ‘don’t be upset’ or ‘calm down’.¹⁸ In fairness it’s a bit easier to take from yourself than from someone else, but it’s just as hard to do. There’s no magic wand, but I can give you a few tips.

For a start, it still helps to create the right atmosphere. However pressured you are to come up with a solution, you’re more likely to do it if you can remove as much pressure as possible. So go for a run, or sit in a quiet room, or play upbeat music. If these aren’t an option, at least turn off your phone alerts, or your email, or shut the door, go and sit in the car – create a bit of space for yourself.

There are things that may clear your mind in the short term. Music perhaps, or a crossword or sudoku, or meditation in one of its many forms (I include gardening, yoga, painting …). Activities that distract your mind from the emotions that are interfering.

If there’s any sensible possibility of buying yourself time, go for it. Time is a big pressure, and will exacerbate anxiety and stress. So even if alleviating the time pressure doesn’t make everything all right, it will at least help. Waiting works well for certain problems, and certain emotions. If you’re angry, for example, it’s likely that you’ll be a bit calmer tomorrow or next week. And time can give you perspective too. Sometimes a problem that looks intractable now might seem easier to solve – or just less important – once a measure of time has passed. And sometimes if you wait long enough, a problem may even solve itself. I’m not advocating procrastinating, but if waiting doesn’t create worse difficulties, why not?

If you’re too emotional to come up with a solution you’re really happy with, at least come up with a stopgap, a plan B, if you can. You haven’t stopped looking for a better idea, but knowing there’s a good enough solution out there reduces the pressure in itself, as well as being an adequate alternative.

And finally, believe there is a solution. You’ll feel much happier, calmer, more relaxed if you think help is on its way, just as soon as the solution pops into your brain. And if you think there’s a solution, there will be (see Rule 39).